A Nashville Uber driver has taken legal action against the popular rideshare company after an alleged sexual assault occurred during a ride from Millersville to Hendersonville on the morning of September 8, 2024. The driver claims that a male passenger sexually assaulted her during the trip and left behind DNA evidence as well as $40 in the vehicle’s cup holder. Court documents reveal that the assault took place just before 4 a.m., when the driver picked up an intoxicated man for the ride.
Lawsuit Claims Uber’s Negligence and Fraud
The lawsuit accuses Uber of negligence in preventing sexual assault and misconduct, alleging that the company has failed to adequately address or prevent harm to drivers. The Uber sexual assault lawsuit also includes claims of fraud and misrepresentation, arguing that Uber’s advertising, which promotes safe rides, fails to align with the reality of its platform.
The attorney representing the driver highlighted the critical issue of Uber withholding important information about riders, stating that Uber should have warned the driver that the request was a ‘high-risk pairing’.
A Safety Crisis for Rideshare Drivers and Passengers
The attorney, who has represented clients in multiple cases against Uber, noted that this lawsuit is part of a broader pattern of safety concerns within the rideshare industry. He referred to a report from The New York Times indicating that Uber received a report of sexual assault or misconduct in the U.S. nearly every eight minutes between 2017 and 2022.
Uber Responds with Safety Features and Resources
In response to the lawsuit, Uber emphasized its commitment to building a safer platform. An Uber spokesperson told News 2 that while they can’t comment on pending litigation, Uber is committed to building a platform where women feel comfortable, safe, and in control. The company outlined several safety features available to users, such as Rider Verification, GPS tracking, and the “Record My Ride” feature, which enables drivers to record audio and video for safety purposes.
Despite these measures, the attorney argued that Uber could take further steps to protect its drivers and passengers. He suggested that the company should require cameras in every vehicle, use partitions like those in taxis, and fully implement one of Uber’s pilot programs that allows female riders to request female drivers.
The Need for Stronger Safety Measures
These statements highlight an ongoing debate about the adequacy of Uber’s safety protocols, particularly when it comes to preventing sexual assault and ensuring the safety of both drivers and passengers. With rideshare services becoming a significant part of daily life, the question remains: are current safety measures enough?
How Helping Survivors Can Help You
At Helping Survivors, we understand the challenges that come with holding perpetrators accountable after an assault. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault during a rideshare trip, we encourage you to reach out to us to learn more about your legal rights and options. Our team is here to guide you through the legal process. Contact us today for confidential assistance and expert legal advice.
