Uber will provide free accident insurance cover to its drivers as part of a multimillion-dollar initiative amid debate over the lack of security for workers in the gig economy. Susan Anderson, regional general manager for Uber, Australia and New Zealand, said the free insurance cover for 80,000 Uber and UberEATS drivers and riders was in response to a survey that found they valued flexibility but wanted more support "if things go wrong". The Chubb insurance policy will cover all delivery and driver partners working with an Uber app. This could include those driving a car, riding a bicycle or motorcycle, or walking. It provides a $400,000 lump sum for accidental death or disability, up to $2000 for fractured bones and up to $10,000 for funeral expenses. Workers who are injured and temporarily disabled will receive $150 for up to 30 days, capped at $4500. An income supplement of $1500 will also be available for bodily injury.
Australia's 80,000 Uber and UberEats drivers and riders will get free accident insurance cover, paid for by Uber. The policy, from insurance company Chubb, offers a lump sum of AUD400,000 ($4500) in the case of accidental death or disability, and includes an income supplement of AUD1,500 in case of injury. Susan Anderson, the regional general manager for Uber, Australia and New Zealand, said the move followed a survey in which Uber workers said they wanted a safety net "if things go wrong".