Uber Injury-Protection Program May Be Start of Gig-Economy Trend

Occupational accident insurance, an alternative to workers’ comp coverage that Uber recently made available to its drivers, could become more common as the gig economy grows, some say. Uber rolled out the program in May. Drivers in 28 states can now purchase the voluntary coverage. Uber is offering the program, which it calls driver injury protection, in partnership with OneBeacon Insurance Group and Aon. The program covers medical costs of up to $1 million, replacement earnings of up to $500 per week, accidental death payment of up to $50,000, survivors benefit of up to $150,000 ...