The e-hailing conundrum: are you insuring a car or a business?

When the Uber wave first hit South Africa in 2013, it didn’t just bring ride-hailing convenience to the palm of our hands; it shook up the entire taxi industry. Fast forward a few years, Bolt joined the race, and now e-hailing is as South African as biltong and braais.

Thousands of drivers are tapping into this booming market, making it a full-time hustle or a profitable side gig. But if you’re thinking about getting behind the wheel as an e-hailing driver, there’s something you absolutely must have besides GPS and a killer playlist - insurance. Car Insurance? Yes, that too. But actually, we’re talking about Business Insurance - the unsung hero keeping your wheels turning and your income flowing smoothly. Let’s take a closer look.

What exactly is e-hailing?

E-hailing is simply when a platform like Uber or Bolt connects drivers to passengers through an app. It’s faster and more convenient than traditional taxis - you set your route, and the app handles payments (if you’ve ever had to hand a crisp R100 note to a gaatjie and heard that tongue-click of disapproval, then in-app payments must sound wonderful).

While e-hailing has made travel easier and safer for many, it’s also introduced new risks, and that’s where Business Insurance comes in.

The essentials: what insurance do e-hailing drivers really need?

If you’re thinking, “Wait, I’ve got Car Insurance - am I good to go?” Not quite. Driving for e-hailing means you’re using your car for business, and that changes the game. You need Business Car Insurance, not Personal Car Insurance. Let’s break it down.

1. Business Insurance

As an e-hailing driver, you need to think of yourself as an entrepreneur. Every business carries risks - vehicle damage, theft, liability for passenger injuries, and even protest action (we all know that's a thing). Business Insurance is the foundation that will cover these bumps in the road, whether it's repair costs after an actual bump in the road or liability for injuries to passengers.

2. Business Car Insurance

You'll be using your vehicle as your primary income source, so regular Personal Car Insurance won't cut it. Business Car Insurance ensures that your vehicle is covered for the extra wear-and-tear and the business-related risks that come with the job. It covers repairs or replacement in case of accidents, theft, or even natural disasters.

3. Passenger Liability Cover

This is a biggie. Passenger Liability Cover protects you in case a passenger is injured (or worse) in an accident while in your vehicle. Some e-hailing platforms offer this, but don't rely solely on them - make sure you've got enough cover in place for any worst-case scenario. This cover may even extend to emotional trauma for passengers who witness accidents.

Think add-ons are just for burgers? Think again!

When you're on the road daily, add-ons can be lifesavers. Consider these:

Car Hire Benefit (Loss of Use)

If your car is out of action due to an accident, this add-on will get you a rental, so you can keep working.

Roadside Assistance

No one wants to be stuck on the side of the road waiting for help. This one's a no-brainer.

Emergency Medical Assistance

Having this ensures that medical help is just a phone call away in case of any accidents.

Business Concierge

This is like having a personal assistant for your vehicle, sorting out everything from tyres to batteries, often at discounted prices.

Business All Risk Insurance

Don't forget the smaller things that make your business run, like your phone. This cover protects your little gadgets that are crucial to your operations.

Make the right choice for your business

Some e-hailing platforms offer limited insurance coverage for drivers and passengers, but don't let that give you a false sense of security. Every business has unique needs, and you should tailor your insurance to fill in any gaps the platform doesn't cover. After all, the goal is to keep your business running smoothly, even when life throws curveballs - or potholes - your way.

Ready to hit the road?

If you're considering becoming an e-hailing driver - or if you are one already - you now know the ins and outs of the insurance you’ll need to stay safe, protected, and covered. At Hippo, we make comparing Business Insurance quotes easier than finding a passenger at an airport. Visit us today to get a personalised quote and keep your business driving forward.

Remember, every trip has its bumps, but with the right insurance, you're always in the driver’s seat.