Millions of Americans drive for Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare services. What most of them don't realize is that their personal auto insurance policy typically excludes coverage while they're working — creating a dangerous gap.

The Three Periods of Rideshare Driving

Rideshare insurance is divided into three periods based on your app status:

  • Period 1: App is ON, waiting for a ride request
  • Period 2: Ride accepted, en route to pick up passenger
  • Period 3: Passenger in the vehicle

Where the Gap Lives

Uber and Lyft provide liability coverage during Periods 2 and 3. But during Period 1 — when you're logged in and waiting — their coverage is minimal, and your personal policy almost certainly excludes commercial activity. This is the gap.

If you're rear-ended while waiting for a ping, you could face significant out-of-pocket costs with no insurance coverage at all.

Rideshare Endorsements Close the Gap

Many carriers now offer rideshare endorsements — add-ons to your personal auto policy that provide coverage during Period 1. The cost is typically modest (often $10–25/month) relative to the protection it provides.

What to Look For

When shopping for rideshare coverage, confirm:

  • Does it cover Period 1 specifically?
  • Does it maintain your collision/comprehensive coverage throughout?
  • Does it coordinate with TNC (Transportation Network Company) coverage?

Not all carriers write rideshare endorsements in Georgia, but ATI works with several that do. Get a rideshare-aware quote →