SAN ANTONIO – USAA announced Thursday it will extend its pilot program offering coverage to members who drive for rideshare companies, such as Uber and Lyft, to Texas.
"More of our members are participating in rideshare activities," said Jesse Mata, product manager for USAA.
Effective May 16, USAA members driving for rideshare companies can have their personal auto policy extended to cover them during the "unmatched phase," or time during which a driver is on his or her way to pick up a passenger.
"Once you've been matched with a passenger, the commercial insurance from the network companies takes over," Mata said.
Earlier this month, USAA began piloting the rideshare coverage program in Colorado.
Texas drivers can begin applying for the coverage in April, which USAA says will cost an additional $6 to $8 per month.
Mayor Ivy Taylor said she "applauds" USAA's move and feels it is a step in the right direction.
On Tuesday, Taylor said she would ask the City Council to delay requiring gap insurance coverage for rideshare drivers.
The city continues to wrangle with rideshare companies over background testing, drug testing and insurance requirements, among other issues.
"We'll just have to keep talking and working with the (Transportation Network Companies) and what would be the best way to balance our focus on customer safety, citizen safety and also allow for this innovative tech to operate here in San Antonio," Taylor said.
Lyft issued a statement regarding the USAA rideshare coverage saying, "We are encouraged by the creation of modern insurance policies tailored for drivers who participate in peer-to-peer transportation. We continue to believe that innovation in the insurance marketplace is the most effective way to maintain the highest level of safety while allowing ridesharing to thrive."
KSAT 12 reached out to all San Antonio mayoral candidates for their response to the USAA policy. Below are the responses we received.
Tommy Adkisson
"I think what you see here is even a very successful company like USAA is having to change its own policies and adapt to this new technology. Unlike the city and Mayor Taylor who just rushed their policy through and now regrets it, it looks like USAA took their time and got it right the first time. It's an example of how we need to run the city like a corporation. We need a strong CEO as mayor who will provide leadership and I think I am the guy who can get that done," Adkisson said.
Pogo Reese
"We already have ridesharing. Don't jump in a car with people you don't know. Your life is at risk. $35 monthly unlimited on VIA," Reese wrote.
Gerard Ponce
"Public safety is one of my main issues. It is great that USAA will be offering coverage to Ride Share," Ponce said.
Paul Martinez
"As a Veteran of the United States Army and USAA member, I am pleased to hear that USAA has offered this coverage to their drivers. Many of our military spouses and veterans look for ways to make extra money on the side and I believe this will encourage them to consider becoming an Uber or Lyft independent driver as an option," said Martinez. "This announcement shows USAA's continual commitment to not only its members and their peace of mind, but to the economic growth of San Antonio. By providing this optional coverage to its members, Uber and Lyft independent drivers no longer have worry about their coverage should they get into an accident. I can only hope that other insurance companies will follow USAA's example and offer this service to their member as well."
Cynthia Cavazos
"Each driver need to carry their own full coverage insurance....if they rent the car...it is the responsibility of the business to purchase insurance on the vehicles."
