Washington state passed a law requiring that cab license holders pay Worker’s Compensation premiums for their lease drivers. Owner/Drivers are required to pay for coverage for themselves. However, the drivers are considered independent contractors in all other respects.
Uber is now lobbying the legislature to kill mandatory WC coverage for all for hire drivers. If they are successful in their race to the bottom on-the-job injuries for this high risk occupation will end up being put on the state’s tab with no industry contribution.