A recent study reveals alarming risks faced by gig economy workers, with many continuing to work through injuries without proper compensation or support. The research, based on a survey of 1,000 American gig workers, found that 15% have suffered workplace injuries or illnesses, with nearly 90% working despite health issues due to financial pressures. These findings highlight significant gaps in safety nets and raise concerns about long-term job security.
Injuries and Financial Burden
Gig roles, including rideshare driving, food delivery, and manual labor, pose notable health risks. Despite this, over 80% of injured workers received no compensation or insurance benefits, often paying out-of-pocket for treatment. Among these, Gen Z (59%) and Gen X (56%) workers were the most likely to bear the costs themselves.
The challenge of taking time off for recovery further exacerbates the issue. Three in four injured or ill gig workers reported returning to their jobs before they were fully ready, underscoring the financial strain from the absence of paid leave. A small fraction (2%) ultimately quit due to injury or illness, with Gen X workers disproportionately affected (10%).
Working Through Injuries Without Compensation
Despite the elevated injury rates, nearly 90% of gig workers continued working while injured or ill, with Gen X workers (93%) being the most likely among them. Notably, employer support was largely absent, as 47% of injured workers felt their injury was overlooked.
Access to workers’ compensation remained elusive for many. Over three in four gig workers never applied for benefits, often due to ignorance or the belief that their injury wouldn’t qualify. Those who did apply faced significant challenges, with 30% experiencing denial, often owing to insufficient evidence. Gen Z workers led in application rates (42%), with 35% receiving benefits, whereas Gen X had the lowest rates (7%) for both applications and approvals.
Burnout and Calls for Change
In addition to physical injuries, burnout is a rising concern within the gig economy. Two in five workers reported burnout as a result of pushing through their health issues, particularly affecting 50% of Gen Z workers. Furthermore, 87% expressed anxiety about the potential of a future injury leaving them without income, a concern that resonates strongly with both Gen X and Gen Z (88%).
The substantial financial and physical risks associated with gig work are prompting many to reconsider their employment options. Half of gig workers are contemplating a shift to traditional full-time employment for greater job stability, with three in five Gen Z workers expressing similar thoughts.
Unionization and Policy Reform
The study also indicates that nearly 80% of gig workers support the formation of a union or collective to advocate for improved workplace protections, with 85% of Gen Z workers endorsing this initiative. These findings reflect a rising wave of advocacy aimed at addressing the lack of safety provisions from employers.
Rethinking Protections for Gig Workers
The findings highlight an urgent need for enhanced education and policy reforms to safeguard gig workers. Notably, one-third (34%) of respondents admitted uncertainty regarding the workings of workers’ compensation, suggesting some may have qualified but did not apply.
