Ride share driver in car using the rideshare app in mobile phone. New taxi ride request from customer in smartphone application. Man picking up passengers for online carpool service.
Rideshare services have become a popular way for Marylanders to earn extra income or get around town. Whether you’re driving for a well-known platform or a smaller transportation network company, it’s important to understand how using your vehicle for rideshare activities can affect your auto insurance coverage.
Personal Auto Insurance May Not Be Enough
Most personal auto insurance policies, including Maryland Auto policies, are designed for personal use of your vehicle. They typically do not cover accidents that occur while you’re transporting passengers for a fee through a rideshare or transportation network service.
If you’re involved in an accident while driving for a rideshare company and don’t have the proper coverage, you could face serious financial consequences, including:
- No insurance coverage for vehicle damage or injuries
- Paying accident-related costs out of pocket
- Personal liability for injuries or property damage resulting from the accident
Understanding your coverage before an accident happens can help protect both your finances and your future.
Using Your Vehicle for Work? Talk to Your Insurance Producer
Ridesharing isn’t the only activity that may affect your insurance coverage. If you use your vehicle to:
- Drive for a rideshare company
- Deliver food or packages
- Transport goods or passengers for payment
- Perform any other commercial driving activity
You should review your insurance coverage right away.
Your Auto insurance agent can help you determine whether your current policy meets your needs and discuss any additional coverage that may be appropriate for the way you use your vehicle.
Make Sure Your Rideshare Company is Authorized to Operate in Maryland
On October 30, 2026, the Maryland Public Service Commission issued a cease-and-desist order against Empower. The Commission found that Empower continued operating after an earlier temporary order and failed to comply with Maryland’s requirements for transportation network companies (TNCs).
As a result, Empower is no longer authorized to operate as a rideshare service in Maryland. Drivers should be aware that providing rides through Empower is not permitted in the state.
What Riders Should Know
Consumers who use rideshare services should also be aware that insurance coverage can vary by company. Before using a service outside of larger, established platforms, consider whether the driver and company have appropriate insurance coverage in place.
In addition, insurance coverage, driver screening practices, and safety policies vary among TNCs. Before using a rideshare service, consider reviewing the company’s safety policies and insurance coverage.
Have Questions? Talk to an Agent
Understanding your coverage before an accident happens can help you avoid unexpected costs and coverage gaps. If you drive for a rideshare company, deliver goods, or use your vehicle for business purposes, contact your insurance agent to discuss your options and make sure you have the protection you need. Or if you need an agent, you can find an authorized Maryland Auto provider near you at mymarylandauto.com.