When ride-sharing first sprung onto the scene, insurance became an immediate concern. Anyone familiar with the personal auto policy knew that such activity was excluded. Many individuals were not aware of this, and started driving for transportation network companies not realizing that in the event of an accident they may not be covered. While the rideshare companies provided coverage when the driver had a passenger, there was no coverage for the gap period when the driver was driving around waiting for someone to hire him for a ride or when he was on his way to pick up a passenger.

Companies have changed their policies to make the exclusion even clearer. While commercial policies are available, they aren't exactly tailored to the individual doing gig work on the side or even full time.

Mobilitas Insurance is a company that has done just that. Recently we had a discussion with Eric Ummel, General Manager of Mobilitas and Emily Tobler, Marketing Leader of Mobilitas. Mobilitas is a wholly owned subsidiary of CSAA Insurance Group, a AAA insurer. Mobilitas announced that beginning October 1 it will provide ride-sharing commercial insurance coverage for Lyft in the following 11 states: