Grab Philippines reiterated its willingness to assume accountability over the rides that passengers and partners book on its platform.
“Grab always puts the interests and welfare of its partners and passengers at the heart of its priorities. It is important for us that they are assured of peace of mind as they take and complete a Grab ride.” Said Leo Emmanuel Gonzales, Public Affairs Head and Spokesperson of Grab Philippines.
Gonzales added that this is why Grab has taken upon itself to get its own third-party private insurance to cover all its Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) partners and passengers in the Philippines and the rest of Southeast Asian region.
Accountability was one of the issues discussed during the two congressional hearings held last week to tackle the issues involving Transportation Network Companies (TNCs). Insurance coverage for the passengers was identified as the means to ensure passenger safety and security.
Ordinarily, only TNVS units with Provisional Authority (PA) and Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) have government – mandated Passenger Accident Management and Insurance (PAMI) coverage.
With Grab’s third-party insurance policy, however, those without PA/CPC are enrolled to an insurance premium through Great American Insurance company in as early as April this year. Those with PA/CPC get the same insurance on top of PAMI.
“Our passengers are protected by a third-party insurance, whether they ride a GrabCar TNVS unit with PA/CPC or not,” Gonzales said, expounding that Grab complies with the “no fault policy” — which entitles passengers to full insurance claims despite the condition of the driver at the time of the accident.
Gonzales clarified that the driver, however, will not be entitled to claims if his/ her condition after the accident was caused by any criminal act, provoked assault, intoxication, use of drugs, violation or attempted violation of law and resistance to lawful arrest or any imprisonment resulting therefrom.
“Grab’s insurance package is a first-of-its-kind insurance policy in the industry to be provided by a ride-hailing platform, and is the largest in terms of coverage in Southeast Asia.” said Gonzales. The group policy from Great American Insurance applies to all 65 cities in the seven countries that Grab operates in.
Grab’s insurance policy offers coverage in the event of accidental death, permanent dismemberment and bodily injuries in the event of accidents for drivers and passengers.
For death or permanent disability, Grab’s TNVS drivers, partners, and passengers can claim up to US$4,100 or Php 200,000; while up to $410 or Php 20,000 can be claimed for medical reimbursements. Moreover, coverage varies for different types of injuries.
“But of course, Grab always urges its TNVS partners to abide by the law.” Gonzales clarified. “Any violation that would result to serious physical injuries or would put Grab’s credibility in question would be tantamount to suspension or even deactivation of their respective accounts.”