Uber Insuring 4.5 Lakh Drivers in India, Messaging Option Now Live

Uber is looking to safeguard the interest of its driver network in India.

The Uber office in San Francisco. 

(Photo Courtesy: AP)

Uber is finally listening to its drivers in India, and looks like they have started this step by offering free-of-cost insurance to its stable of 4.5 lakh drivers in the country.

Recent controversies and protests from drivers have largely demanded Uber to safeguard the interests of its drivers, and with its latest effort, they’re slowly moving towards it.

This announcement comes at a time when drivers, who The Quint spoke to, are looking to move to other pastures, where they’re bound to be given more benefits from all corners. There has been a drop in the incentives, which many drivers claim has been forcing them to move out of Uber in the country.

The insurance program entitles drivers on Uber’s network to handle emergency situations and provide them with coverage costs.

Insurance program will provide driver partners (aged 18 to 65) of four-wheeled vehicles, intended to carry passengers, with a coverage for accidental death and disablement, hospitalisation and outpatient medical treatment in case of an accident while using the Uber App and are available for trip requests, en route or on a trip with Uber. The unique insurance cover will be offered for free to the driver partners

Uber India

The coverage offered includes Rs 5 lakh in the event of death, up to Rs 5 lakh for permanent disability, up to Rs 2 lakh in the event of hospitalisation, with a sub-limit of up to Rs. 50,000 for outpatient treatment.

Uber hopes that such provisions attract more people to come on board as drivers for its network.

Some new features have been added, which can be used to improve the lifestyle while driving with Uber.

New features:

• Drivers can set the preferred route locations for daily rides
• Drivers can accept rides while undergoing another one
• The Uber app allows drivers to move in location with high demand
• In-chat app ensures the rider doesn’t need to share their number with the driver
• Drivers will be paid for any extra time spent waiting for the rider

All these features, and the provision for insurance, comes after Uber recently joined hands with NPCI to offer UPI payment option to consumers, as well integrate all its drivers to be paid via UPI into their bank accounts.

Also Read: UPI-Based Payment on Uber App in India: Here’s How It Works

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