New Allstate coverage approved for Uber and Lyft drivers

News: 2016 Press Release

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones announced today he has approved a new insurance product providing increased access to insurance coverage for people driving for Transportation Network Companies (TNCs), such as Uber and Lyft. The product, offered by Allstate Insurance, is available to drivers for all ride-hailing companies.

Beginning in April, TNC drivers will have the option to purchase the Allstate Ride for Hire endorsement for an estimated additional $15-$20 annually for improved insurance coverage during Period 1, while the app is activated and the driver is looking for a new fare.

"Insurers are responding positively to technology trends and the growing popularity of ride-hailing services," said Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones. "New coverage options are good for both consumers and the economy."

Commissioner Jones has encouraged insurers to develop auto insurance products for TNC drivers. Prior to the new coverage options, ride-hailing drivers were not typically covered by their personal private auto policy. Allstate's new coverage helps close that gap by providing drivers with access to coverage throughout the entire ride cycle. Previously, drivers were only covered by TNC commercial insurance once they accepted a ride.

"The ride-hailing economy continues to grow and our products evolve with our customers' potential needs," says Allstate Field Senior Vice President, Phil Telgenhoff. "We want to help ensure our customers can more confidently participate as TNC drivers."

Jones has been a leader in encouraging innovation in the insurance marketplace—most recently in response to the emerging sharing economy and the growing popularity of TNCs in California. Jones identified insurance coverage issues associated with the ride-hailing model, and issued a set of strong recommendations which were included in rules issued by the Public Utilities Commission and in AB 2293.

Commissioner Jones encouraged insurers to develop auto insurance products for TNC drivers and directed the Department of Insurance to begin accepting ride-hailing insurance product filings from insurers nine months before the new law went into effect. To date the department has approved eight insurance products covering TNCs. 

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Media Notes:

• Transportation Network Company services generally fall into three periods:
• Period 1: App open -waiting for a match.
• Period 2: Match accepted-but passenger not yet picked up (driver is on his/her way to pick up the passenger).
• Period 3: Passenger in the vehicle and until the passenger exits the vehicle.
• AB 2293:
• Provides that the driver's personal auto policy provides no coverage from the moment the ride-hailing app is turned on.
• Requires the TNC, the driver or some combination of the two to maintain primary liability insurance as follows:
• Period 1
• $50,000 for injury to a single person
• $100,000 for injury to multiple persons
• $30,000 for property damage
• Periods 2 and 3: $1 million
• TNCs must also maintain $200,000 in excess insurance during Period 1.

• TNC Product Approval Chart: http://cdicms.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/82-TNC-Ridesharing/index.cfm

• Allstate media contact: Freddy Santos (916) 859-8615.