Rideshare Car Insurance: How To Find, Compare & Save Today

Australia’s appetite for rideshare services continues to soar, with thousands of drivers ferrying passengers across cities and regions each day. Yet, many don’t realise that a standard car insurance policy is unlikely to protect them behind the wheel for Uber, DiDi, Shebah, or other ride-hailing platforms. The financial risks can be significant: without the right cover, a single accident could mean costly repairs, denied claims, or even legal action—leaving drivers stranded both on the road and financially.

Rideshare car insurance is a specialised solution designed to bridge this gap. More than just a box-ticking exercise, it’s about safeguarding your livelihood, meeting legal obligations, and giving peace of mind to both you and your passengers. But with state regulations, platform requirements, and policy options all in the mix, finding the right cover can feel overwhelming.

This guide walks you through every step: from understanding exactly what the law demands, to working out your own needs, comparing quotes, spotting hidden exclusions, and making sure you’re not paying a cent more than necessary. Drawing on trusted sources—including Transport for NSW and ASIC’s MoneySmart—our aim is simple: to help you make confident, informed choices that keep you moving and your business protected.

Whether you’re new to ridesharing or simply looking to save on your next renewal, you’ll find practical advice and clear actions on every page. Let’s get started on securing the cover your rideshare business truly needs.

Understand Legal Requirements for Rideshare Insurance

Rideshare drivers must navigate a maze of legal and platform rules to ensure they’re properly insured. Failing to hold the correct cover not only risks hefty repair bills and claim rejections, but can also leave you in breach of state regulations—or void your agreement with a rideshare platform. Below we outline the core requirements you need to meet in New South Wales, how other states handle Compulsory Third Party cover, and the extra conditions imposed by Uber, DiDi, Shebah and others.

Regulatory Insurance Requirements in New South Wales

In NSW, the Point to Point Transport (Taxis and Hire Vehicles) Regulation 2017 sets clear insurance standards for all hire vehicles, including those used for rideshare. Key points include:

Policies must be issued by an ASIC-authorised insurer.
“Policies must provide cover of at least $5,000,000 against liability for damage to third-party property…”.
Cover is mandatory even if you already hold a private car insurance policy.

Drivers can read the full regulation on the NSW legislation site: https://legislation.nsw.gov.au/view/whole/html/2021-10-20/sl-2017-0424.

Insurance Requirements in Other States and Territories

Outside NSW, Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance is generally included in your vehicle registration fee. This CTP cover:

Pays for medical treatment, care and rehabilitation if you cause personal injury or death.
Does not cover damage to another person’s car or property.

Depending on where you live, CTP is known by different names—such as the “Green Slip” in NSW or the Motor Accident Injuries (MAI) Scheme in the ACT. If you’re using your vehicle for hire or business purposes (including rideshare), some states impose extra minimum levels of third-party or comprehensive cover. In Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia, for example, commercial-use vehicles often need a standalone policy beyond the standard CTP bundled with registration.

Platform-Specific Insurance Conditions

Rideshare platforms commonly impose their own insurance rules on top of state requirements. As a guide:

Uber: Requires CTP cover plus at least third-party property insurance. The driver must be the policy holder or a named insured.
DiDi: Insists on CTP and either a third-party or comprehensive car policy, with additional state-based stipulations.
Shebah: Mandates full comprehensive insurance alongside the relevant CTP for your state or territory.

Terms and conditions can change, so always check your chosen platform’s insurance section before you hit “Go Online” for the first time.

Assess Your Rideshare Insurance Needs

Before you dive into quotes or endorsements, take a moment to work out exactly how you use your vehicle on rideshare platforms. Your daily patterns, trip locations and workload will shape the cover you need and could save you from paying for features you’ll never use. By analysing your habits, spotting potential exposures and choosing the right policy add-ons, you’ll avoid unexpected costs—whether that’s a repair bill after a crash, a hire car while yours is off the road or legal fees following a passenger injury claim.

Analyse How You Use Your Vehicle

Start by recording your typical rideshare activity over a representative week or month. Note down:

Average kilometres travelled per shift and per week
Total hours online and number of fares completed
Routes you cover: inner-city, suburban or longer regional trips
Peak-time vs off-peak driving (weekdays, weekends, late nights)

You don’t need fancy software—most apps provide trip summaries you can export to a spreadsheet or simply jot details into a diary or notes app. Over a few weeks you’ll build a reliable estimate of your annual rideshare usage. This forms the basis for selecting a policy with suitable kilometre limits (or, ideally, unlimited kilometres) and helps insurers price your cover more accurately.

Identify Key Risks and Liabilities

Rideshare drivers face a unique set of exposures that go beyond everyday private travel:

At-fault collisions: repairs to your vehicle and costs for third-party property damage
Passenger injuries: medical bills and potential compensation claims
Theft or vandalism: car left unattended between bookings
Breakdown or accident downtime: lost income while your car is off the road

Consider the worst-case scenarios and what out-of-pocket costs you might face. A minor fender-bender could mean a big repair bill, while a not-at-fault accident might still leave you without a working vehicle for days. By quantifying these risks—both financial and operational—you’ll know which benefits to prioritise in your policy.

Decide on Must-Have Policy Benefits

When you’re insured under a rideshare policy, look for these practical features that keep you moving and protect your earnings:

Unlimited kilometres: avoid unexpected charges or policy breaches if you exceed a cap
Lifetime repair warranty: guaranteed workmanship and parts quality on authorised repairs
Replacement car after not-at-fault accidents: maintain income flow while yours is in the workshop
24/7 towing and roadside assistance: prompt help wherever you break down
Excess discount when using preferred repairers: lower your out-of-pocket cost on each claim

Rank these extras according to your own risk profile. If you rely on your vehicle every day for income, a replacement hire car and towing cover could be more valuable than a marginal premium saving. By matching policy benefits to real-world needs, you’ll strike the right balance between affordability and protection.

Explore Types of Rideshare Car Insurance Coverage

When you’re choosing cover for rideshare driving, it helps to understand how each policy level responds to common scenarios—from passenger injuries to damage to your own vehicle. Below we break down the main types of cover available in Australia, so you can line up your risk profile with the right policy.

Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance

Every registered vehicle in Australia must carry CTP insurance, which sits in your registration fee in most states. CTP:

Covers legal liability for injury or death to other people in an accident you cause.
Does not pay for damage to vehicles or property.
May be called a Green Slip (NSW) or part of the Motor Accident Injuries Scheme (ACT), but the scope is the same.

CTP alone won’t help you with repair bills or stolen‐car losses, so it’s only the starting point for rideshare drivers.

Third Party Property Only Insurance

If you want at least some cover for damage you inflict on someone else’s car or property, a Third Party Property Only policy is the minimal extra step:

Pays for repair costs to third‐party vehicles or other property in an at‐fault accident.
Leaves you on the hook for your own vehicle’s repair or replacement.
Doesn’t cover theft, fire or weather‐related damage.

Drivers on a tight budget sometimes opt for this level, but remember any smash‐ups to your car remain your responsibility.

Third Party Fire & Theft Insurance

Stepping up from basic third‐party cover, Third Party Fire & Theft (TPFT) adds protection for your own vehicle against specific perils:

Includes Third Party Property cover for damage you cause to others.
Covers loss or damage to your car if it’s stolen or destroyed by fire.
Excludes repairs for at‐fault collisions involving your own vehicle—those costs sit with you.

This mid-tier option suits drivers who want a safety net against theft and fire, yet are comfortable paying for crash damage out of pocket.

Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive cover delivers the fullest protection for rideshare drivers, combining at-fault repairs, third-party liability and loss from theft, fire, flood or vandalism. Key features include:

Repair or replacement of your vehicle and any third-party vehicles, regardless of fault.
Extras such as windscreen cover, personal belongings and emergency transport.
Flexible valuation methods:
- Agreed Value: you and the insurer set a fixed payout upfront—this usually means higher premiums but no nasty surprises.
- Market Value: payout based on your car’s current worth at claim time—premiums are often lower but the payout can fluctuate.

For a deeper dive into cover types, valuation methods, premiums and excess calculations, see ASIC’s MoneySmart guide: https://moneysmart.gov.au/car-insurance/choosing-car-insurance.

Comprehensive policies often include specialist rideshare endorsements—make sure yours explicitly covers ride-sourcing to keep every journey fully protected.

Understand Rideshare Car Insurance Costs and Premiums

Knowing what drives your insurance premium can help you make savvy choices when shopping for rideshare cover. Premiums reflect the risk you represent to an insurer, so understanding the key factors—and how small adjustments can save you money—puts you back in control of your costs.

Factors That Influence Your Premium

Insurers weigh a range of details when calculating your quote. The most common factors include:

Driver profile: Your age, driving experience and claims history matter. A clean record and several claim-free years typically attract lower rates.
Vehicle characteristics: The make, model, age and market value of your car all feed into the premium. Cars with strong safety ratings, modern anti-theft features and reliable parts tend to cost less to insure.
Location and parking: Where you live and where you leave your vehicle overnight influence risk assessments. Garaging in a secure driveway or guarded facility will usually lower your premium compared to street parking.
Estimated usage: Rideshare drivers who cover high annual kilometres represent a greater claim risk. If your policy imposes kilometre limits, be realistic—exceeding those limits could lead to extra charges or a voided claim. Many specialist rideshare policies offer unlimited kilometres to avoid this trap.
Business-use endorsement: Adding a rideshare or business-use extension will bump your premium compared to a private-use policy. However, without this endorsement, you risk a refused claim if you have an accident while logged on to a driving app.

By providing accurate details on your annual distances, typical shifts and parking arrangements, you give insurers the best chance to price your policy fairly—and avoid nasty surprises when it’s time to renew.

Examining Excess Options

Excess is the portion you pay towards a claim before your insurer steps in. There are two types:

Compulsory excess: Set by the insurer based on your risk profile and the policy’s cover level.
Voluntary excess: An extra amount you choose to accept in return for a lower premium.

Opting for a higher voluntary excess can shave a noticeable percentage off your premium. For example, increasing your voluntary excess by $500 might reduce your annual cost by roughly 5–10%, depending on the insurer. Just ensure you can comfortably afford the total excess should you need to claim.

No Claim Bonus and Available Discounts

A disciplined, claim-free driving record doesn’t just keep you safe—it’s good for your wallet too. Most insurers reward you with a No Claim Bonus (NCB) after each year without a claim. Typical NCB scales offer:

10–20% discount after one claim-free year
Up to 40–50% discount after five or more consecutive claim-free years

Beyond NCB, you may be eligible for additional savings:

Multi-policy bundling: Combining your home, business or other vehicle cover with the same insurer often attracts a 5–15% discount.
Security device discounts: Installing approved alarms, immobilisers or tracking systems can cut premiums—sometimes by up to 10%.
Accredited driver training: Completing defensive driving courses or rideshare-specific safety programmes can demonstrate lower risk to insurers.
Prompt payment and direct debit: Some insurers reward on-time payments or set up direct debits with minor premium reductions.

When comparing quotes, always ask each insurer which discounts apply to your circumstances—and double-check that they’ve been factored into your quote. A few minutes of extra questions could translate into hundreds of dollars saved over the policy term.

Check Your Existing Policy for Rideshare Use

Before you switch providers or adjust your cover, it pays to double‐check what your current policy actually says about rideshare driving. Even if you’ve told your insurer you use the car for “business”, small print clauses can still trip you up if they don’t explicitly mention ride-sourcing or paid-driving. A quick review now could save you from a refused claim (and a hefty repair bill) further down the track.

Review Your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and TMD

Your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and Target Market Determination (TMD) are the starting point for understanding exactly what you’re covered for. Look for keywords such as “business use”, “hire-or-reward” or “ride-sourcing” to see if paid driving falls within your policy’s scope.

Skim the inclusions, exclusions and definitions sections to pinpoint any reference to rideshare.
Highlight clauses that restrict cover for commercial activities, kilometre caps or unapproved drivers.
If “rideshare” or “ride-sourcing” isn’t mentioned, chances are you don’t have the right endorsement.

Taking notes as you go will help later when you compare cover or speak to your insurer.

Contact Your Insurer to Confirm Cover

Once you’ve read the PDS and TMD, pick up the phone or log in to your insurer’s portal to verify. Aim to get clear, definitive answers rather than vague assurances. Sample questions include:

“Does my policy cover me while driving for Uber or another ride-hailing app?”
“Are there any annual kilometre limits or blackout periods for business use?”
“What extra premium or excess applies to my rideshare endorsement?”

Document every conversation: note the date and time, the name of the representative, and a brief summary of what was said. If your insurer emails you policy updates or endorsement confirmations, keep those messages in a dedicated folder for easy reference.

Avoiding Claim Denials

It’s one thing to assume you’re covered; it’s another to have your claim rejected because you didn’t explicitly disclose rideshare use. Insurers commonly refuse claims if “business use” is left off the application or if actual usage exceeds stated kilometre limits. To stay protected:

Always update your policy before taking your first paid booking.
Check that any endorsement or premium adjustment is active immediately—don’t leave it until renewal.
Keep written evidence (emails, policy schedules) confirming your rideshare cover.

By proactively reviewing and updating your existing policy, you’ll avoid nasty surprises and drive with confidence, knowing that every fare is backed by the right insurance.

Obtain Quotes from Multiple Insurers

Shopping around is the best way to find a rideshare car insurance policy that balances cost, cover and benefits. By collecting several quotes, you can compare not just the premium, but also inclusions, exclusions and optional extras. Below are the steps to ensure you get accurate, like-for-like quotes—and discover where the real savings lie.

Gather Necessary Information

To receive precise quotes, have these details ready before you start:

Personal information
• Full name, date of birth and contact details
• Driver’s licence number and licence class
• Claims history for the past 3–5 years
Vehicle specifics
• Registration number, make, model and build date
• Any modifications or aftermarket accessories
• Security features such as alarms, immobilisers or tracking devices
Usage profile
• Estimated annual kilometres and typical shift patterns
• Proportion of driving time spent on rideshare platforms
• Overnight parking location (driveway, garage or street parking)

Accurate data helps insurers tailor their quotes to your actual risk. Over- or under-estimating your usage can lead to underinsurance or unexpected premium hikes at renewal.

Requesting Online and Offline Quotes

Once your information is organised, reach out to each insurer in whichever format you prefer:

Online
• Visit insurer websites such as National Cover (https://nationalcover.com.au/rideshare-insurance/) to complete a quick rideshare quote form.
• Look for live chat options or online calculators to get an instant estimate.
Offline
• Call the insurer’s customer support line—note down the quote reference number, the date and the name of the representative.
• Drop into a local branch if available; face-to-face conversations can help clarify complex policy details.

Whether online or on the phone, take screenshots or write down key figures: premium, compulsory and voluntary excess, any kilometre limits, plus special benefits like replacement cars and roadside assistance.

Utilising Comparison Tools and Insurance Brokers

Comparing quotes one by one can be time-consuming. Consider these shortcuts:

Comparison websites
Use free online engines such as Compare the Market, iSelect or Finder to get a snapshot of available policies. Keep in mind these tools may not include every specialist rideshare option, so always double-check direct insurer sites for the most up-to-date rideshare endorsements.
Insurance brokers
A broker can handle multiple quotes on your behalf, explain the fine print and recommend the best fit for your situation—especially useful if you manage a small fleet or clock up high annual kilometres. Brokers work for you, not the insurer, so they can help you weigh up features across a wider range of providers.

By combining DIY comparison with professional advice when needed, you’ll build confidence that you’ve found the most cost-effective, comprehensive cover for your rideshare operation.

Compare Insurance Quotes and Policy Features

Before you commit to any rideshare car insurance policy, lining up your options side by side is the best way to find real value. Comparing premiums is just the starting point—examining excesses, inclusions, exclusions and special benefits will show you which policy covers your risks without costing the earth. Follow the steps below to build a clear picture of how different insurers stack up.

Create a Comparison Spreadsheet or Table

A simple spreadsheet or table helps you spot differences at a glance. Set up columns for:

Field	Description
Insurer	Name of the company
Annual premium	Total cost per year
Compulsory excess	Mandatory out-of-pocket amount
Voluntary excess	Extra excess you choose for a premium discount
Cover type	CTP, Third Party, TPFT or Comprehensive
Limits	Cover limits (e.g. third-party property liability)
Inclusions	Policy extras (e.g. hire car, towing, repair warranty)
Exclusions	Not covered elements (e.g. hail, flood, mobile phone use)
No Claim Bonus (NCB)	Discount earned for each claim-free year
Special benefits	Replacement car, unlimited kms, lifetime repair warranty, accredited driver training discount

Here’s a quick template to get you started:

Insurer	Premium	Compulsory Excess	Voluntary Excess	Cover Type	Key Inclusions	Primary Exclusions	NCB	Special Benefits
Example Insurer Co	$1,200	$600	$300	Comprehensive	Hire car after not-at-fault, 24/7 towing	No cover for hail/flood	30%	Unlimited kms, lifetime repair warranty

Populating this table will help you see at a glance where policies offer similar protections and where they diverge.

Prioritise Key Features Over Price Alone

While a low premium can be tempting, make sure you’re not sacrificing essential safeguards. For rideshare drivers, keep an eye out for:

Unlimited kilometres: avoids extra charges if you exceed a cap
Replacement car after not-at-fault accidents: keeps you earning while yours is repaired
Lifetime repair warranty: guarantees workmanship and parts quality on authorized repairs
24/7 towing and roadside assistance: prompt help wherever you break down

A slightly higher premium may be a bargain if these features save you hours of downtime or thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs.

Spot Hidden Exclusions and Sub-Limits

Cheaper policies often hide restrictive clauses in the fine print. When reviewing your PDS, check for:

Mobile phone or electronic device exclusions: some insurers void cover if you were using your phone at the time of an accident
Unauthorised drivers: confirm whether occasional deputies (e.g. family members) are included under your policy
Vehicle modifications: aftermarket upgrades may need specific approval to remain covered
Event sub-limits: caps on windscreen claims, passenger liability or flood damage

These sub-limits and exclusions can turn a seemingly cheap policy into a costly gap in cover, so don’t skip this step.

Top Rideshare Insurance Providers to Consider

Once you’ve matched policy details in your comparison table, narrow your focus to insurers known for strong rideshare cover:

National Cover (https://nationalcover.com.au/rideshare-insurance/): ASIC-regulated specialist with a Price-Beat Guarantee, insuring over 5,000 drivers. Full comprehensive rideshare cover, no kilometre limits and lifetime repair warranties.
Suncorp: Offers rideshare endorsements on comprehensive and TPFT policies, plus hire car after theft or not-at-fault incidents and no additional rideshare excess.
Youi: Covers ride-sourcing under standard policies—just select “Taxi – Uber and other ridesharing services” when you quote—and customise your voluntary excess.
Marsh: Dedicated commercial and rideshare car policies ideal for fleets or high-usage drivers.
AAMI: Extends comprehensive cover to Uber, DiDi and Ola drivers, including a hire car after not-at-fault accidents.
Bingle: Budget-friendly TPFT and comprehensive options, best for lower-mileage drivers.
GT Insurance: Rideshare-specific cover with passenger liability, replacement car and 24/7 support.
Sharecover: Comprehensive policies with dedicated rideshare endorsements, including legal liability and modification overrides.

By filling out your comparison table and focusing on these providers, you’ll gain a precise understanding of which policy offers the best mix of cost, cover and practical benefits for your rideshare operation.

Find Ways to Save on Rideshare Insurance

Even with specialist cover, there’s room to trim your premium without sacrificing key benefits. Tackling costs from multiple angles—excess settings, policy bundles, driving habits and regular reviews—will help you find a sweet spot between affordability and protection.

Opt for a Higher Voluntary Excess

Voluntary excess is the extra amount you agree to pay on top of your insurer’s compulsory excess if you claim. By choosing a higher voluntary excess, you’ll usually secure a lower premium. For example:

Increasing your voluntary excess from $300 to $800 could shave around 8–10% off an annual premium of $1,200 (saving roughly $100–$120).
Just ensure the total excess (compulsory plus voluntary) remains affordable if you ever need to claim.

This trade-off can be worth it if you rarely lodge claims, but always balance potential savings against the maximum out-of-pocket cost in an accident.

Bundle Multiple Policies

Most insurers reward loyalty across product lines. By combining your rideshare car insurance with other covers—such as home and contents, business or even additional vehicles—you could unlock multi-policy discounts of 5–15%.

If your standalone car premium is $1,000 and your home and contents insurance is $800, a 10% bundling discount could save you $180 in total.
Beyond the savings, managing all your policies through one portal simplifies renewals and claims.

Be sure to check that each bundled policy still meets its specific needs (for example, a dedicated business policy for courier or fleet vehicles).

Maintain a Good Driving Record and No Claim Bonus

Safe driving pays twice—first by keeping you out of trouble, then through your No Claim Bonus (NCB). Insurers typically reward claim-free years with escalating discounts, for instance:

10–20% discount after one year without a claim
Up to 40–50% discount after five consecutive claim-free years

You can further bolster your record by taking accredited driver-safety courses or using telematics (in-car tracking) programs that monitor and report safe habits. Just remember: even a single claim can reduce or reset your NCB, so weigh small repairs against potential future savings.

Review and Switch Annually

The insurance market moves fast. New competitors enter, underwriting appetites shift and promotional discounts appear. By treating your policy review as an annual ritual, you’ll:

Compare fresh quotes to see if you can save 10–20%
Check that your cover still matches your current usage and vehicle
Avoid automatic premium hikes at renewal

When switching, confirm there are no hidden cancellation fees and that your new policy kicks in seamlessly—so there’s no gap in cover. A quick refresh each year could deliver welcome savings while keeping your rideshare business protected.

Add Rideshare Cover to Your Policy or Buy New

Once you’ve compared quotes and decided on the level of cover you need, it’s time to either add a rideshare endorsement to your existing policy or take out a standalone rideshare product. Both routes can work well—your choice depends on budget, usage and the range of options your current insurer offers.

How to Add Rideshare Use to an Existing Policy

If you already have a comprehensive or TPFT policy you’re happy with, adding a rideshare extension is often the simplest way to get properly covered:

Log in or call your insurer
• Access the online portal or phone customer service.
• Have your policy number and vehicle details on hand.
Update your vehicle use
• Select “business use” or “ridesharing/ride-sourcing” when prompted.
• Provide a realistic estimate of your annual kilometres and typical shift patterns.
Confirm any premium adjustment
• Ask how much extra you’ll pay, and whether any new excess applies.
• Check if benefits like unlimited kilometres or replacement cars are included.
Get written confirmation
• Save the email, portal screenshot or policy schedule showing your rideshare cover.
• Note the date the endorsement takes effect to avoid an inadvertent gap.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure every fare is protected under the same policy framework—and often at a lower total cost than starting from scratch.

Purchasing a Dedicated Rideshare Policy

For high-usage drivers or those who want a turnkey solution, a purpose-built rideshare policy can be a better fit:

• Pros
– Clear scope: specifically designed to cover ride-sourcing, with all exclusions and limits tailored to paid driving.
– Specialist benefits: many include features like hire vehicles after not-at-fault incidents, 24/7 towing and no kilometre caps as standard.
– Simplicity: one document that spells out exactly what is—and isn’t—covered.

• Cons
– Potentially higher premiums for low-mileage drivers.
– Fewer insurer options compared to standard private-use policies.

To take out a dedicated rideshare policy, follow these general steps:

Choose your insurer—look for a provider with strong rideshare credentials and a competitive price-beat guarantee.
Complete the online application or broker questionnaire, giving accurate details on your rideshare activity.
Review the policy schedule to confirm cover levels, excesses and special benefits.
Pay the premium and download your certificate of insurance.

Ensuring No Coverage Gaps

Whether you’re updating a policy or buying new, a small timing hiccup can leave you driving uninsured—a risk no rideshare driver should take. To avoid gaps:

Check the start date of your new cover before cancelling the old one.
If you update an existing policy, confirm the effective time (often immediately on phone calls or within hours online).
Keep copies of all emails, screenshots or letters that verify your rideshare endorsement.
Don’t let registration or premium payment lapses occur—set reminders to renew just before expiry.

With these precautions in place, you’ll hit the road with confidence, knowing every journey is backed by the right insurance.

Know What to Do After an Accident: The Claims Process

Accidents are stressful, but having a clear plan can reduce downtime and frustration. Acting promptly and methodically not only ensures your safety—it also smooths the path for a quick and fair claim outcome. Follow the steps below to protect yourself, your passengers and your rideshare business from unnecessary headaches.

Immediate Steps at the Accident Scene

First things first: prioritise everyone’s safety. If anyone is injured or there’s a risk of fire, call 000 immediately. Once emergency services are on their way, move your vehicle off the road if it’s safe to do so—this helps prevent secondary collisions and makes it easier for other drivers to navigate.

Next, gather as much evidence as you can:

Take clear photographs of the scene, including vehicle damage, road markings, skid marks and traffic signs.
Note the date, time and exact location of the incident.
Exchange contact and insurance details with other drivers and passengers.
If there are witnesses, collect their names and phone numbers—eyewitness accounts can be invaluable when reconstructing events.

A calm, organised approach at the scene sets you up for a smoother claim later on.

Lodging Your Claim with the Insurer

After you’ve left the scene, notify your insurer as soon as possible—many providers, including National Cover, allow claims to be lodged via email or online portals 24/7. When you make your claim, be ready to provide:

A brief description of what happened before, during and after the accident.
Photos of all vehicle damage and the scene itself.
The names, phone numbers and insurance details of other drivers and witnesses.
Any police report or incident number if the authorities attended.

Upload digital photos, dash-cam footage or police reports directly through the insurer’s claim system. The more comprehensive your documentation, the quicker the claims team can assess liability and approve repairs.

Follow-Up, Repairs and Replacement Vehicles

Once your claim is lodged, you’ll receive a claim number and instructions on next steps. If you use one of National Cover’s preferred repairers, you’ll benefit from a lifetime warranty on repairs and a discounted excess. Plus, if the incident was not your fault, you’re entitled to a replacement vehicle while yours is in the workshop.

Keep in touch with your claims handler—they can track repair estimates, confirm hire-car arrangements and provide updates if any additional information is needed. If progress stalls, don’t hesitate to follow up by phone or email; most insurers have escalation pathways for time-sensitive claims.

By sticking to this process—securing the scene, documenting everything, lodging promptly and leveraging preferred repair networks—you’ll minimise downtime and get back on the road faster, with your rideshare business intact.

Protect Your Rideshare Future Today

You’ve now got the tools to navigate every stage of securing and maintaining the right rideshare car insurance—from meeting legal obligations and assessing your personal risks, to comparing quotes, cutting costs and knowing exactly what to do after an accident. By following these steps, you’ll stay compliant with state regulations, keep your passengers and your wallet protected, and minimise any downtime when life throws you a curveball on the road.

Remember that rideshare driving is more than just a side hustle—it’s a business. Taking the time to choose the right policy benefits, maintain an up-to-date endorsement and review your cover each year will help you avoid nasty surprises and unexpected expenses. A well-crafted insurance plan not only guards against repair bills and liability claims, but also lets you focus on what matters most: delivering a safe, reliable service and maximising your earning potential.

Ready to lock in the protection you deserve? Head over to National Cover to get a free, no-obligation quote today. With our Price-Beat Guarantee, ASIC-regulated expertise and specialist rideshare endorsements—complete with unlimited kilometres, replacement vehicles and lifetime repair warranties—you’ll hit the road with confidence and peace of mind.