A federal jury in Charlotte, North Carolina, recently awarded $5,000 in nominal damages to a woman who accused her Uber driver of sexually assaulting her at the end of a ride in 2019. The case is part of a larger trend of lawsuits filed against Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies by passengers alleging misconduct or sexual assault by drivers.
What Happened in the Uber Sexual Assault Case?
In this particular case, the victim argued that her driver had asked her to sit in the front seat of his car. Upon arriving at her destination, the driver allegedly grabbed her upper thigh, and made an inappropriate request, asking if he could “keep it with him.” This disturbing behavior led her to file a lawsuit against both the driver and Uber.
Legal Implications: Uber's Duty to Passengers
U.S. District Judge Charles R. Breyer previously ruled that Uber is considered a “common carrier” under North Carolina law. This classification means that Uber has a “non-delegable duty” to ensure the safety of passengers during their rides. Consequently, the jury’s role was to determine whether the driver had sexually assaulted the plaintiff and whether she was entitled to recover damages for the emotional distress she suffered due to the incident.
Growing Trend of Rideshare Sexual Assault Lawsuits
The case in North Carolina is just one of many lawsuits filed against Uber and Lyft by passengers who claim to have been sexually assaulted or harassed by their drivers. With a growing number of lawsuits being filed, individuals who were victims of such incidents may qualify to join a class action lawsuit, provided the assault or misconduct took place during an Uber ride since 2009, or a Lyft ride since 2012, and the incident occurred while the driver was working in an official capacity.
How We Can Help: Seeking Justice for Uber Sexual Assault Victims
If you or a loved one has been sexually assaulted by an Uber or Lyft driver, you may qualify to make a claim for emotional distress, damages, or other forms of compensation. It’s important to consult with a legal professional who can help you navigate this complex legal process and fight for justice.
Our team of experienced partner attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case review.
