Becoming A Senior Companion: Get Insured To Drive

If you're looking to become insured to drive seniors to their appointments, you'll likely need liability insurance and auto insurance coverage for business use of your vehicle. This is because, as an independent service provider, you'll be responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of your passengers. While the specific requirements may vary depending on your location and the type of vehicle you drive, having adequate insurance coverage is crucial to protect yourself and your passengers in the event of an accident or incident. It's important to note that you may also need to meet certain age and driving record requirements to qualify for the necessary insurance coverage. Additionally, some organizations that coordinate rides for seniors may have additional insurance requirements or provide their own insurance for volunteer drivers.

Liability insurance and auto insurance coverage for business use of your vehicle

If you're starting a senior transportation business, you'll need to have liability insurance and auto insurance coverage for business use of your vehicle. This is because, if you're using your vehicle for work purposes, your personal auto insurance policy is unlikely to cover you in the event of an accident.

Commercial auto insurance is important for small businesses as it provides financial protection if you or an employee needs medical care or faces legal expenses due to a road accident. It covers legal bills, medical expenses, and property damage. Most states require commercial auto insurance coverage for business-owned vehicles, with mandatory liability limits for damage coverage. The average cost of commercial auto insurance is $147 per month, but this can vary depending on your insurance history, the number of vehicles, vehicle type, and usage.

When taking out commercial auto insurance, you'll need to specify how you use vehicles in your business, who will be driving them, and whether you own, rent, or lease. You can choose different coverages for your various vehicles, depending on their features (size, age, theft rating, and safety rating) and the coverage you need.

In addition to commercial auto insurance, you may also want to consider general liability insurance, which covers common business risks such as customer injury and property damage. You can combine general liability insurance with commercial property insurance in a Business Owner's Policy (BOP) to protect your business from a range of risks.

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT)

NEMT services are typically provided by booking travel through transportation brokers, who use specialised software to locate available transport providers and schedule trips. Medicaid is a required provider of NEMT services, but other healthcare entities also offer rides to improve patient access to care.

NEMT providers are required to offer transportation to and from the appointment and to cover all associated expenses. The most appropriate form of transportation must be utilised, with service providers specially equipped to transport riders with wheelchairs, stretchers, or other special needs.

NEMT is an essential link in the healthcare chain, ensuring that patients can access the medical services critical to their health. Without these services, many individuals would be unable to receive the care they need.

Taxi or ride-share services

If you're looking to become insured to drive seniors to their appointments, you can consider signing up with a taxi company that caters to this demographic. Alternatively, you can also look into ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, which offer accessible vehicles and services for seniors. These companies have partnered with private carriers to provide discounted rides to medical appointments, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities.

It's important to note that you will need the appropriate insurance coverage to provide transportation services. This may include commercial insurance or specific policies that cater to ride-sharing services. Additionally, you should also be aware of any regulations or requirements specific to your location, as they may vary.

Before signing up as a driver, it's recommended to research the different companies and their requirements. This will ensure that you meet the necessary criteria and have the appropriate insurance coverage in place.

Senior public transport programs

Most counties in the United States have public transportation plans designed for senior citizens or those who need door-to-door rides. These programs are usually run by the local Area Agency on Aging. The Area Agency on Aging can be contacted by phone from 6 am to 5 pm PST, Monday to Friday, on 1-800-677-1116.

In addition to the services provided by the Area Agency on Aging, there are other public transport programs for seniors, such as:

• ITN (Independent Transportation Network) America, which provides door-to-door service 24/7, with a minimum charge of $9 per location and a $40 membership fee.
• Paratransit, a transportation system designed to accommodate seniors and others with limited mobility. To use paratransit, individuals must first qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
• Local churches or non-profits often provide volunteer organizations and transportation resources.
• Medicaid, which covers a significant amount of medical transportation.

Senior call-and-ride programs

County Public Transportation Services for Seniors

Most counties in the United States offer free or low-cost public transportation services specifically tailored for seniors. These services often include door-to-door rides to medical appointments, the grocery store, senior centres, and other essential locations. To find these programs, seniors or their caregivers can contact their county's Area Agency on Aging, which can provide information on available local programs. Additionally, the ElderCareLocator is a helpful online tool where users can enter their zip code to find local government transportation programs in their area.

Concierge Services

Concierge services like GoGoGrandparent connect seniors to on-demand ride services such as Lyft and Uber. These services are ideal for seniors who can get in and out of a car without assistance. GoGoGrandparent, in particular, offers low-cost rides and screens drivers to ensure they meet the needs of the senior, such as having a vehicle large enough to accommodate medical equipment. It also provides notifications to family members about the status of the ride via text message.

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Some companies, like Veyo, partner with insurance providers and health facilities to offer NEMT services to seniors and disabled individuals. Veyo's drivers meet strict healthcare standards and undergo ADA education, CPR certification, and training in HIPAA compliance, sensitivity, and medical needs. They also undergo drug testing and multi-level background checks. Seniors can access this service by contacting their insurance provider to see if Veyo is included in their transportation benefits.

National Transport Networks

ITN America is a national transport network for seniors that provides "arm-through-arm, door-through-door" service, assisting seniors not just with transportation but also with entering and exiting their destinations. While it is not available in all counties, it is a valuable option for those who live in its service areas.

Local Volunteer Organisations

Local churches, nonprofits, and volunteer driver programs often provide transportation services for seniors. These services typically require reservations and may involve a small membership fee or donation. They can usually be found through local support groups, Facebook groups for caregivers, or recommendations from the senior's care team.

Additional Resources

Seniors and their caregivers can also explore other transportation options, such as ride-sharing apps like Lyft, which offers a concierge service for seniors through partners like assisted living communities. Additionally, calling 211 or visiting the 211 website can provide information on transportation resources in specific areas.

Frequently asked questions