If you’re driving for a rideshare company or delivering food, you probably have many questions about auto insurance. What is the best car insurance? Do I need special insurance if I drive for a rideshare company? How can I save money on gas?
We’ve got the answers to all of your questions. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about auto insurance for rideshare and delivery drivers.
How Much is Car Insurance?
The cost of car insurance varies depending on several factors, including your age, driving history, and the type of vehicle you drive. However, suppose you’re going for a rideshare company or delivering food. In that case, you may be able to get a discount on your car insurance. There are caveats and addendums to abide by, so make sure you discuss your plans with your agent.
You can save on your insurance with a few easy tips:
- Reduce your deductible
- Bundle your policies
- Ask about discounts (such as veterans, AAA, first responders, AARP, students, Safe Driver, Etc)
- shop around
- reassess annually
- drive carefully
Do I Need Special Insurance if I’m Driving for a Ride-Share Company?
You’ll need commercial auto insurance if you’re driving for a rideshare company. This type of insurance differs from personal auto insurance, which covers you if you’re in an accident while working. Some agencies have a bundle policy. You can pay for one premium, and the commercial insurance adds to your primary policy.
How Can I Save Money on Gas?
There are a few things you can do to save money on gas. With prices rising drastically, your budget may require creative rearranging. When the chips are down, and you can’t reduce your fuel costs further, find other places to save money in your car budget.
Fuel Rewards Programs
You can try using a gas rewards credit card to earn points or cash back on your gas purchases. Companies like Safeway, Albertsons, Fred Meyer, Kroger, and Costco have fuel rewards programs to check into.
Routine Maintenance
Another way to save on gas is by keeping your car in good shape. This means routine maintenance like oil changes, tune-ups, and air filter replacements. A well-maintained vehicle will run more efficiently and use less fuel.
It’s easy to overlook these maintenance tasks when you’re busy and your workhorse of a car keeps chugging along. But your wheels will run more efficiently and reduce the frequency of breakdowns if you stay on schedule with your manufacturer’s maintenance checklist. You can save money by learning to do many tasks yourself. Check out the resources on Youtube, or
Select Your Routes for Efficiency
If you’re delivering food, be strategic about the routes you take. Map out the most efficient route before you start your deliveries. This will help you save time and gas. Do your best not to idle while you wait for deliveries. Instead, enjoy the fresh air and chill with your engine off. The fuel tank and the environment will thank you.
A Rolling Billboard Wrap
If you’re driving around, you can rent your window or side panel space to advertisers to help pay for gas. Turning your car into a rolling billboard is a great passive way to earn a little extra to offset gas costs.
Modern graphic car wraps are a damage-free way to display the ads your clients pay you for. The car wrap company will design, print, and install vinyl graphics on your car. You can even select what type of company you want to advertise for, so you’re not driving around with a product you don’t believe in. Once the contract is up, they’ll remove the wrap and your car will be as good as new.
Lease Your Car, Instead of Purchasing
For many drivers, the cost of leasing a car is far lower than the payments of a car purchase. You can enjoy a brand-new vehicle without the high monthly payments by leasing your car for rideshare or delivery purposes. Just read the fine print on your lease agreement, so you’re not caught off guard by any mileage restrictions or early termination fees.
Furthermore, with a lease instead of a purchase, you’ll be able to upgrade to a newer and safer car every few years. The dealership typically takes care of routine maintenance for you. You don’t need to worry about being off the road and out of work if you need the brakes replaced or any other significant safety repair.
Invest in a Hybrid Vehicle
When you buy your next car, consider investing in a hybrid or electric vehicle to save on fuel costs when driving for a rideshare company or delivery service.
These vehicles are becoming increasingly popular and more affordable as technology improves. Not only do they get great gas mileage, but many states offer tax breaks and other incentives to encourage people to drive hybrids.
Depending on the state you live in, you may be able to take advantage of HOV lane access, free parking, and other perks just for driving a hybrid car.
Final Thoughts
As a rideshare or delivery driver, you can save money on gas by using fuel rewards programs, being strategic about your routes, and investing in a hybrid vehicle. You can also lease your car instead of purchasing it to save money each month. By following these tips, you’ll be able to offset the cost of gas and keep more money in your pocket. Keep these things in mind, and you’ll be on your way to saving money on car insurance and gas. Happy Driving