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Ride Sharing Know How

doug • July 1, 2019

Ride Share

Ride sharing is more like taking a taxi than what it sounds like involving carpooling to work with a coworker, hitching a ride to an event with a neighbor, or getting a lift to the store from a friend.

It typically involves a company that connects riders with drivers who make them selves available. Ride sharing, which has grown quickly in popularity over the past several years, has three components:
  • You’re riding in a car, SUV, truck, or van owned and driven by a private individual.
  • Typically, you pay for the ride.
  • Usually, a ride is booked using a smartphone app or a website, so some simple tech skills may be required to hitch a ride.

Ride sharing is a way to get from Point A to Point B instead of using public transportation, such as taking a bus or a train, and livery services, or such as grabbing a taxi, a limo, or an airport shuttle.

Ride Sharing Know How. How Does It Work?

Ride sharing companies are officially known as Transportation Network Companies, and they connect people who need rides to drivers who want to use their private vehicles to make money, often as a side job.

Ride sharing has grown in popularity over the past few years, and you probably have heard of names like Uber and Lyft. You may have heard of someone right here is Spartanburg say they are going to “uber” to a movie.

Using a ride sharing service is a simple as finding a ride sharing company that operates in our area, download their app to your smartphone, and use that app to book a ride.

After you book a ride, the app will give you the name and photo of your driver, the make, model, and color of the vehicle they drive, and an approximate time for when they will reach your location. You may also be able to see the driver’s license plate number, as well as the driver’s rating, which is based on reviews from other riders.  This identification process is important for your safety.

The app will charge the credit card or other payment method you’ve put on file so you won’t have to dig through your wallet or purse for cash or plastic. Once you reach your destination, you will be able to go on your way.

If you want to save money you can actually share your ride with others headed in the same direction. For example, Uber offers an option called  UberPOOL. If you select the carpool option, your driver can pick up a maximum of two additional riders, and everyone pays a lower fare—guaranteed. Note that the carpooling option is only available in some of the cities served by the company—typically larger cities, such as Atlanta, New York and San Francisco.

Ride Sharing and Safety

Ride sharing offers many benefits, including the convenience of being able to quickly summon a ride such as when a play lets out, you have finished shopping, or the rain has started pouring.

There are some  issues with ride sharing  that you should know about before you use them. Although using a ride sharing service may seem similar to using a taxi service, there are differences.

Unlike taxi and limousine drivers, ride sharing drivers typically do not have a commercial driver’s license, or the training and testing required to obtain one. And they are driving their own personal vehicles, which are not licensed or insured as commercial vehicles.

For accidents involving ride sharing, being compensated for an injury can become complicated because a number of parties involved. Some larger ride sharing companies carry $1 million in liability coverage that will cover injuries to passengers. Some also carry the same amount in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. These coverages help to protect passengers who incur medical bills as a result of an accident in a ride sharing vehicle. It’s a good idea to check what coverages a ride sharing service has before you start riding.

Some ride sharing companies have implemented technology-based safety features. For example, Uber has a “Send Status” button that allows you to send family and friends your location and ETA. With one swipe of your phone, you can text your driver’s name and license plate number, as well as your real-time map location to up to five contacts. This offers peace of mind to you and your loved ones who might worry about your safety when you’re riding with a stranger.

Ride Sharing and Older Riders

For older adults who do not drive , ride sharing may offer a convenient transportation option. In fact, some companies and nonprofits exclusively offer ride sharing to riders 60 and up. Some charge for rides, but some don’t. For example:

SilverRide offers door-to-door transportation for older riders in several cities. Specially trained drivers assist riders from the door to the vehicle and then to their destination. Drivers are trained in Red Cross First Aid, CPR, and serving older adults.

If you or someone you love has handed over their car keys, ride sharing may be a great option for maintaining independence.

Top Insurance Myths Busted

By Doug Stockman • February 10, 2025
Top 10 Insurance Myths Busted (by Yours Truly, Your Local Insurance Agent) Hey folks! Ready to debunk some myths that are floating around out there like rogue shopping carts in a hurricane. I hear it all the time – whispers in the grocery store, hushed tones at the PTA meeting. "Did you know…?" Nine times out of ten, "Did you know…?" is followed by something wildly inaccurate about insurance. So, let's grab our myth-busting ray guns and get to work! 1. Red Cars = Higher Insurance Rates: Seriously? Do you think insurance companies employ colorblind squirrels to set rates? The color of your car has absolutely nothing to do with your premiums. It's all about your driving record, the type of car (sports car vs. sensible sedan), and where you live. So, go ahead, rock that cherry red convertible. Just drive safely, okay? 2. "Full Coverage" Means I'm Covered for EVERYTHING: Ah, "full coverage." It's a catchy phrase, isn't it? But it's also a bit of a misnomer. "Full coverage" usually refers to a combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. It doesn't mean you're covered if your pet hamster spontaneously combusts in your car (yes, I've heard it all). Read your policy, people! Know what you're actually paying for. 3. My Home Insurance Covers EVERYTHING in My Home: See Myth #2 but replace "car" with "home." Your standard homeowner's policy is great for things like fire, theft, and some weather-related damage. But it probably won't cover your prized collection of antique thimbles if they're damaged by a rogue poltergeist. (Again, I've heard it all.) There are specific riders and endorsements for certain valuables, so chat with your agent. 4. Filing a Claim Will Automatically Jack Up My Rates: Not necessarily. One small claim might not affect your rates too much. It's the frequency of claims that raises red flags. Think of it like this: one fender bender is a "whoops," three fender benders are a "pattern." Insurance companies don't like patterns. 5. Renters Don't Need Insurance: Oh, renters, renters, renters. This one makes me cringe. Just because you don't own the building doesn't mean you don't own stuff. Your landlord's insurance covers the structure, but it doesn't cover your personal belongings. A good renter's policy is surprisingly affordable and can save you from financial ruin if your apartment catches fire, gets burgled, or, you know, invaded by those thimble-loving poltergeists. 6. Older Homes Are Always More Expensive to Insure: Not always! Sure, some older homes might have outdated wiring or plumbing, but many have been renovated and are perfectly safe. Insurance companies look at the condition of the home, not just its age. 7. I Don't Need Flood Insurance - I Don't Live Near Water: Newsflash: floods can happen anywhere. Even if you live miles from the coast, heavy rain can cause flash flooding. Standard homeowner's insurance doesn't cover flood damage. You'll need a separate flood insurance policy. 8. My Credit Score Doesn't Affect My Insurance Rates: Wrong! In most states, insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores to help predict the likelihood of you filing a claim. So, keep those credit scores high, folks! 9. If I Total My Car, I'll Get What I Paid For It: Nope. You'll get the current market value of your car, which might be less than what you paid for it, especially if it's been owned a few years. Also, if your loan amount is more than the value of your car this is where "gap insurance" comes in. It covers the difference between what you owe on your loan and what the insurance company pays out. 10. Insurance Agents Are All Sleazy and Just Want Your Money: Okay, okay, some of us might be a little… enthusiastic. But most of us genuinely care about protecting our clients. We want you to have the right coverage at the right price. So, don't be afraid to ask questions. That's what we're here for! So, there you have it – ten insurance myths, thoroughly busted. Now go forth and be informed! And as always, if you have any questions, give your friendly neighborhood insurance agent a call. (That's me!)

10 Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain(Because Hydroplaning is So Last Season)

By Doug Stockman • February 6, 2025
10 Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain (Because Hydroplaning is So Last Season) Alright, listen up, lead foots and Sunday drivers alike. It's raining. Again. And unless you've recently sprouted gills or your car is amphibious (in which case, please send pics), you're gonna have to navigate this liquid apocalypse like the rest of us mere mortals. So, ditch the daydreaming about that tropical vacation and pay attention, because hydroplaning isn't a personality trait, and ending up in a ditch is a terrible way to spend a Tuesday. Remember, safe driving keeps you from injury and doesn't give your insurance rates another reason to go up. 1. Slow Your Roll (Like, Seriously, Chill): This isn't a Fast & Furious movie, Vin Diesel isn't waiting for you at the finish line, and your pizza will still be lukewarm even if you arrive five minutes later (tip: even warmer if you turned on your heated seats). The faster you go, the more likely you are to become intimately acquainted with a guardrail. Think of it this way: slow and steady wins the race... and avoids the tow truck. 2. Lights On (Even if it's Not "Dark"): Yes, Captain Obvious, it's the law. But beyond that, it makes you less likely to be mistaken for a rogue wave by other drivers. Plus, it gives you that cool, mysterious vibe. You know, the kind that says, "I'm a responsible adult who also happens to be an awe-inspiring driver." 3. Check Your Tires (Are They Bald? You're Gonna Have a Bad Time): Think of your tires as the shoes of your car. Would you wear flip-flops to climb Mount Everest? No. (Unless you're insane. And also, please send pics.) Check your tread depth. If your tires are balder than a cue ball, you're basically driving on ice, even if it's 70 degrees out. 4. Double the Following Distance (Seriously, Double It): Tailgating is a bad idea on a sunny day. In the rain? It's a recipe for disaster. Give the car in front of you enough space so you have time to react if they suddenly decide to audition for "America's Next Top Emergency Brake." 5. Avoid Cruise Control (Unless You Want to Lose Control): Cruise control is great for long, straight highways. Rainy, slippery roads? Not so much. You want to be in full control of your vehicle, not letting some robot make decisions for you when things get dicey. 6. Brake Gently (Don't Slam On the Brakes Like You're Trying to Stop a Runaway Train): Slamming on the brakes in the rain is a surefire way to initiate a spin cycle that would make your washing machine jealous. Apply the brakes smoothly and gradually. Think of it as a delicate dance with your car, not a wrestling match. 7. Steer Smoothly (No Jerking Allowed): Just like braking, steering should be a gentle art. Jerky movements are more likely to cause your car to lose traction and send you sliding sideways. Imagine you're carrying a tray of hot coffee. Smooth and steady wins the day (and prevents third-degree burns). 8. Be Wary of Puddles (They Could Be Deeper Than You Think): Puddles can hide all sorts of dangers: potholes and debris. Avoid them if you can. If you can't, drive through them slowly and steadily. And for the love of all that is holy, don't try to splash pedestrians. Karma is a real thing. 9. Visibility is Key (Wipers On, Fog Lights If Needed): Make sure your wipers are in good working order. If they're streaking or squeaking, replace them. They're cheap, and they make a world of difference. Most auto parts stores will install them free of charge if purchased in their store. And if visibility is really bad, use your fog lights (but remember to turn them off when the fog clears, or you'll blind oncoming drivers). 10. Stay Calm (Panic is Your Enemy): If you do start to hydroplane, don't panic. Take your foot off the gas, steer gently in the direction you want to go, and avoid slamming on the brakes. Remember, smooth and steady. Think of it as a test of your driving skills. You got this. (Probably.) So, there you have it. Ten tips to help you survive the next downpour. Now go forth and conquer the roads, my friends. And try not to wreck.
I owe more on my car than it is worth!

Car Underwater, Gap Insurance is the Answer

By Doug Stockman • February 5, 2025
Gap Insurance: Because Life Gives You Lemons (and Your Car Gets Totaled) Life throws curveballs. Sometimes those curveballs involve deer, rogue shopping carts, and the dreaded "your vehicle is totaled" verdict from your insurance company. And while your insurance might cover the cost of your car... well, let's just say it might not be enough to cover your loan debt (or that Hawaiian vacation you were planning). Enter: Gap Insurance, the mysterious force field that promises to save you from financial ruin (or at least a serious case of ramen noodles). Think of it this way: You buy a brand-new car. You're cruising down the highway, top down, singing along to your favorite tunes. Life is good. Then BAM! Disaster strikes. Your car is totaled. Your insurance company cuts you a check... but it's not enough to cover the car loan. You're still on the hook for a hefty chunk of change, leaving you feeling more "gaping hole in my wallet" than "gap year in Europe." Gap Insurance is basically your financial superhero. It swoops in, cape flowing, to cover the difference between what your insurance pays out and what you still owe on your loan. It's like having a secret weapon against the cruelties of car ownership. But is it worth the extra cash? That, my friend, is the million-dollar question. Pros: Peace of Mind (Kinda): Knowing you're covered if disaster strikes can offer a fleeting sense of tranquility. Avoid Ramen Noodle Ramen: Let's be honest, nobody wants to live on ramen noodles for the next five years. Flex on Your Friends: "Oh, my car got totaled? No biggie, I have Gap Insurance." (Okay, maybe don't actually flex on your friends.) Cons: It Costs Money: And let's be real, money doesn't grow on trees (unless you live in a magical forest, in which case, please share your location). Might Be a Waste of Cash: If you make a significant down payment and have a shorter loan term, you might be perfectly fine without it. Fine Print Nightmare: Deciphering the fine print can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube while blindfolded. The Verdict? Ultimately, the decision to get Gap Insurance is a personal one. If the thought of being "underwater" on your car loan gives you night terrors, then it might be worth the extra cost. Many insurance companies offer Gap Insurance for a fraction of the cost at the dealership or bank. And remember, even with Gap Insurance, always drive defensively. Because let's face it, life is unpredictable, and sometimes, the only way to survive is with a healthy dose of sarcasm and a really good insurance plan. Disclaimer: This blog post is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Consult with a qualified financial advisor for personalized guidance. P.S. If your car does get totaled, take solace in the fact that you now have an excellent excuse to buy that electric scooter you've always wanted.
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