Insurance for metered and non-metered taxis
Do you have a taxi licence and are looking for insurance? Then you know that it is not an easy task. Most insurers do not include this type of vehicle in their regular offer, or consider it a special risk with higher premiums. This situation can become even more complex if your taxi does not have a taximeter. Does the coverage change? Are there legal differences? What kind of insurance do you need exactly? Let's answer all these questions.
What does taxi insurance cover?
Metered or unmetered, a taxi is first and foremost a professional vehicle. That means it spends many hours on the road, transporting people, and generating daily income. That's why basic insurance is not enough: you need a product that understands the way you work.
Compulsory insurance for taxis must include, as a minimum, Civil Liability cover. In other words, it must cover material and personal damages that you may cause to third parties while driving. This is not optional: it is required by law for any motor vehicle.
But beyond this basic coverage, there are many additional guarantees that are worth examining:
- Own damage cover.
- Roadside assistance.
- Driver's insurance.
- Legal protection.
- Replacement of the vehicle in the event of an accident.
Each case is different, so a personalised study of your needs as a taxi driver is recommended.
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Is insurance different for a metered and a non-metered taxi?
Yes, there can be differences. Although the legal basis is the same, insurers distinguish between traditional taxis (with a taximeter) and vehicles providing similar services but without such a device. This is common in:
- Local or rural licensed taxis.
- Chauffeur-driven transport vehicles (VTC).
- Cars adapted for specific services without distance pricing.
In these cases, the insurance may have different conditions. Some insurers even consider them as mixed-use or professional vehicles, but not as traditional taxis. This affects the type of coverage, the price, and even the availability of companies willing to insure them.
That is why it is key to have expert advice that knows how to correctly interpret your situation.
Compulsory insurance for unmetered self-employed taxis
If you are self-employed and work with an unmetered taxi, you are also obliged to take out insurance. The regulations require that any vehicle carrying out public passenger transport must be covered, regardless of whether or not it has a taximeter.
In this type of case, contracting is often more difficult, as many insurers do not have a specific product for this type of insurance. Some consider it an "excluded risk" or impose impractical conditions.
From lawebdeseguros.comWe analyse your specific case and help you find the best option available according to your type of licence, the use you make of the vehicle and your professional circumstances. Always without obligation and adapting to your real needs.
Taxi insurance price comparison
It is logical that you want to compare prices. But be careful: not all insurances are the same, and the differences in coverage, deductibles or response times can be significant.
Comparing only the price can lead you to take out insurance that does not cover you sufficiently in the event of a claim or breakdown. The ideal is to make a comparison with professional advice, assessing:
- Daily use of taxis.
- The age of the vehicle.
- The driver's history.
- If you work with employees or as a self-employed person.
- Your location and type of licence.
What other insurances are recommended for a taxi driver?
In addition to vehicle insurance, as a self-employed taxi driver you should consider other complementary policies. Some situations may directly affect your source of income and may not be covered by car insurance:
- Driving licence withdrawal insurance.
If you lose your points-based licence, you will be out of work. This insurance covers you financially during this period. - Temporary incapacity for work (ILT).
If you suffer an injury or illness that prevents you from working, this cover provides income during your sick leave. - Life or disability insurance.
To protect your family or yourself against serious unforeseen events. - Accident insurance as per agreement.
Mandatory if you have salaried employees, as it covers the risks of contracted personnel according to the collective agreement.
All these insurances are designed to protect not only your vehicle, but also your professional activity and your financial stability.
Why is taxi insurance so hard to find?
The main reason is risk. A taxi is on the road for many hours, which increases the likelihood of an accident. In addition, most insurers prefer more general products, and taxis require very specific conditions.
This leads many companies to exclude these vehicles directly from their regular offers, or to include them only if you take out other products with them.
For this reason, you will usually need to go to brokerages or specialised professionals who work with insurers that do accept this type of risk.
Conclusion
Whether you operate a metered or unmetered taxi, you need insurance that understands your business. Taking out a insurance for metered and unmetered taxis is something that should not be left to chance. Every situation is unique, and the best policy will be the one that suits you.