What Rhode Islanders Should Know About Rideshare Insurance
Are you driving for Uber or Lyft in Rhode Island? Do you need special rideshare insurance?
If you live in Warwick, Providence, or anywhere in Central Rhode Island and drive for a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, you may be wondering if your personal auto insurance policy is enough. This blog breaks down what you need to know about rideshare insurance, how it works in Rhode Island, and how The Slocum Agency can help.
What is Rideshare Insurance?
Rideshare insurance is coverage for drivers who use their personal vehicles for rideshare apps. Standard personal auto policies generally exclude commercial activities like transporting passengers for a fee.
In Rhode Island, many drivers assume their personal policy or the rideshare company’s coverage is enough—but that often isn’t the case.
Why Your Personal Policy May Not Be Enough
Most auto policies in Rhode Island cover only personal use. Once you log into the app, even if you haven’t accepted a ride, coverage could be limited or dropped entirely.
App Off: Personal coverage applies.
App On (No Passenger): Coverage is often limited or excluded.
Passenger Onboard: Rideshare company’s insurance kicks in, but only while transporting.
Without proper rideshare coverage, claims could be denied during the gap phases.
Rideshare Coverage Requirements in Rhode Island
By law, rideshare companies must provide:
When app is on, no passenger: $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident (bodily injury), $25,000 (property damage).
When transporting a passenger: $1 million in liability coverage.
However, these policies often have high deductibles and limited personal protection.
What Does Rideshare Insurance Cover?
Liability for injuries and property damage
Optional collision and comprehensive (varies by insurer)
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist protection
Not always covered: Your injuries, app-on/no-passenger collisions, lost wages, or delivery driving unless specified.
Do You Need Rideshare Insurance in Rhode Island?
Yes. Even if you drive part-time, you risk being underinsured without proper coverage. Many Rhode Island drivers discover too late that their policy doesn’t apply when they’re logged into a rideshare app.
How to Add Rideshare Coverage
Contact a Warwick insurance agent like The Slocum Agency
Review your current policy for exclusions
Get quotes from insurers who offer rideshare endorsements
Choose the right level of coverage with help from one of our agents
Business Use and Delivery Drivers
If you use your vehicle for deliveries (e.g., DoorDash, Instacart), coverage rules can differ. Be sure to disclose all commercial use to your agent.
Why Choose Slocum Insurance?
With over 75 years of experience, The Slocum Agency is a trusted provider for drivers in Warwick, Providence, and across Rhode Island. As independent insurance agents, we offer:
Access to multiple carriers
Personalized policy reviews
Expertise in RI insurance regulations
The Bottom Line
If you drive for a rideshare company in Rhode Island, don’t assume your current policy covers you. Contact The Slocum Agency to get a quote or speak with one of our top agents. We’ll help ensure you’re protected every mile of the way.
