If you’re one of the thousands of Floridians making a living through gig work or freelance jobs, your car probably plays a big part in your business. You might be delivering groceries in Tampa, driving clients around Miami, or heading to an install in Fort Lauderdale. It’s your work vehicle—even if it’s registered as personal use.
But here’s the catch: your auto insurance may not cover a single mile of it.
The Risk Freelancers Don’t See Coming
Florida’s freelance economy is growing fast. More people than ever are using their personal cars to work—not just rideshare or delivery drivers, but realtors, mobile hairstylists, tech repair workers, photographers, notaries, and more. It’s flexible, convenient, and a great way to earn—until something goes wrong on the road.
Most personal auto insurance policies in Florida exclude coverage for “business use.” So if you’re in a crash while on a delivery run or heading to a client meeting, your insurer might reject the claim. That means no payout for damage to your car, no help with your injuries, and no legal protection if the other driver sues you.
We’ve seen it happen. A self-employed landscaper from Sarasota hit another vehicle while transporting tools to a job. His insurer denied coverage because his trip was considered business-related. He was stuck paying out of pocket—not just for repairs, but also for the other driver’s injuries.
What Counts as “Business Use”?
Insurance companies define “business use” as any activity where you’re using your car to make money or perform a service. That includes:
- Delivering food, packages, or goods
- Driving passengers through rideshare apps
- Traveling to client meetings or job sites
- Transporting tools or equipment for freelance work
Even if it’s part-time or occasional, insurers might still classify it as commercial activity. That’s why simply having a personal auto policy often isn’t enough.
Florida’s No-Fault System Has Limits
Yes, Florida is a no-fault state. That means your own insurance—specifically your Personal Injury Protection (PIP)—covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses and lost income after a crash, no matter who caused it. But there’s a catch: if you were using your vehicle for business purposes and your policy excludes that use, PIP might not apply at all. That leaves you uncovered for your own injuries.
But that’s just part of the picture. Most Florida drivers also carry Property Damage Liability (PDL) and Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) coverage to protect others in case they cause an accident. These cover the other person’s car repair, medical costs, or even legal claims if you’re found at fault.
Here’s the problem: if the crash happens while you’re working—and your insurer finds out you were using your personal vehicle for business—they may refuse to honor those liability coverages too.
That means:
- You could be personally on the hook for someone else’s medical bills.
- You might have to pay out of pocket for their vehicle repairs.
- If they sue you, you could face legal and financial consequences without insurance defense.
This isn’t just theory—it happens. A freelance handyman from West Palm Beach was driving to a job site when he rear-ended another car. His insurer denied both his PIP and liability claim after finding out he was using the vehicle for work. He ended up facing a personal lawsuit for damages.
What About Uber, Lyft, and Delivery Apps?
Rideshare and delivery apps do offer limited insurance—but it’s full of gaps.
For example, Uber and Lyft provide some coverage when you’re driving a passenger, but much less (or none) while you’re waiting for a ride request. DoorDash and Instacart don’t cover you during every part of a trip.
If you’re in an accident while in one of those gray areas, your personal insurer may deny the claim—and the company’s policy may not step in.
That’s why Florida requires rideshare drivers to carry additional coverage:
- When logged in but without a passenger: $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident in bodily injury
- When transporting a passenger: $1 million in liability coverage
Still, this doesn’t always happen automatically. If you’re driving without meeting these requirements, you could be held personally responsible for any damage or injuries.
If You’ve Been in a Crash While Working
Don’t let the insurance company control what happens next. Even if you carry commercial coverage, business-use accidents often lead to denied claims, delayed payouts, or disputes over what’s actually covered. These cases are rarely straightforward.
That’s where experience matters. Car accident attorneys in West Palm Beach regularly handle claims involving freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners who rely on their vehicles for income. Whether the crash happened during a delivery, on the way to a client, or while driving for an app, legal support can help you challenge the insurance company and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If unfortunately, you’re involved in a crash while working, always call the police to file an official report—and call a lawyer before speaking to the insurance company. It could make all the difference in how your case is handled.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Income
The good news? You can do something about it—before an accident happens.
Insurers aren’t likely to offer better coverage unless you ask. And once you’re already in a crash, it’s too late to fix the policy. Whether you freelance full-time or just use your car for a few deliveries each week, you need the right coverage in place now.
Start with these steps:
1. Review your Insurance Policy
Look closely for any language excluding “business use” or “commercial activity.” If it’s not crystal clear, don’t guess—call and confirm.
2. Be Honest with your Insurance Agent
If you’re using your vehicle to make money, say so. It might raise your premium slightly—but that’s a lot cheaper than paying for repairs and legal fees yourself.
3. Consider Commercial Auto Insurance
For many freelancers, especially those whose car is essential for income, this is the most reliable option. It usually includes higher liability limits and coverage that actually applies while you’re on the job.
4. Driving for an App? Ask about Gap or Rideshare Coverage
Some insurers in Florida now offer policies that specifically cover the “gray areas” between app activities—when you’re logged in, waiting for a ping, or driving to pick someone up.
5. Log your Business Miles
Keep records of when, how far, and for what purpose you’re driving. Not only does this help clarify your insurance needs, but it can also help at tax time or in the event of a claim dispute.
These steps won’t just protect your car—they’ll protect your income and your financial future.
Your Car Is Part of Your Business. Protect It Like One
You work hard to build your income, your independence, your name. Don’t let one unexpected accident take that away. Make sure your car insurance actually protects the work you do behind the wheel.
And if it doesn’t, give us a call. We’re here to help you fight back when insurers try to walk away.