I slipped on an icy porch while delivering a burrito and fractured my wrist. I needed surgery and couldn’t drive for 8 weeks. I assumed DoorDash would cover my medical bills. I was wrong. I was an “Independent Contractor,” and because I hadn’t opted into their specific “Occupational Accident” insurance, I was on my own for $12,000 in bills and two months of lost rent.
Key Takeaways
- Contractors Don’t Get Workers Comp: In the US, Workers Compensation is for W-2 employees. 99% of gig workers are 1099 contractors, meaning no state-guaranteed safety net.
- Occupational Accident (OccAcc) is the Substitute: Apps offer private “OccAcc” policies. They are similar to Workers Comp but have limits (caps on medical payouts) and strict eligibility rules (must be “Online” or “En Route”).
- Prop 22 Models: In states like California, apps are required to provide a healthcare subsidy or injury protection, but it is still not full Workers Comp.
- Employee Models Exist: Companies like Gopuff, Amazon DSPs, or local courier fleets hire drivers as W-2s. They get full Workers Comp.
The “Why”: The Classification Battle
The entire gig economy business model relies on not paying Workers Comp premiums (which are expensive).
Instead, they buy cheap group policies (OccAcc) that protect them from lawsuits while offering you basic coverage.
- Workers Comp: Pays 100% medical, ~66% lost wages, for life if needed. No fault.
- OccAcc: Pays medical up to $1M (usually), lost wages up to 50% (short term). Can deny for pre-existing conditions.
[IMAGE: Table comparing benefits of W-2 Workers Comp vs. 1099 Occupational Accident insurance]
The Investigation: Who Protects the Driver?
I reviewed the 2026 insurance benefits for the major platforms.
1. DoorDash / Uber / GrubHub (1099 Model)
- Coverage: Occupational Accident Insurance.
- Cost: Usually free to drivers (in 2026), but you sometimes have to “Enroll” to activate it.
- Trap: If you are “Waiting for Order” (Period 1), coverage might be limited or nonexistent depending on the specific policy year.
2. Amazon DSP (W-2 Model)
- Coverage: Full State Workers Compensation.
- Benefit: If you get hurt, the state board ensures you get paid. It is much harder for them to deny a valid claim.
3. Gopuff (Hybrid)
- Coverage: Varies. In some markets, drivers are W-2 employees with benefits. In others, they are 1099. You must check your offer letter.
Comparison Table: Injury Protection
| Feature | Workers Comp (W-2) | OccAcc (1099) | Personal Health Ins. |
| Medical Bills | 100% | Capped (e.g., $1M) | Yes (minus deductible) |
| Lost Wages | Yes (~66%) | Yes (~50%) | NO |
| Long Term Disability | Yes | Limited | No |
| Fault Required? | No | No | No |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check Your App Now: Go to Account > Insurance. See if you are “Enrolled” in the Injury Protection. Do not assume you are.
- Get Aflac/Private Disability: Since OccAcc wage replacement is low, buy a private “Accident Indemnity” policy for $20/month. It pays cash if you get hurt.
- Report Immediately: With OccAcc, strict reporting windows apply (often 24-48 hours). If you wait a week to see if your back stops hurting, they will deny the claim.
FAQ
Can I sue the homeowner for the icy porch?
Yes. You can file a “Premises Liability” claim against their Homeowners Insurance. This is often your best bet for a large payout if the app insurance fails.
Does my car insurance pay for my broken arm?
Only if you have “Medical Payments” (MedPay) or PIP coverage. Standard liability does not cover your injuries.