Ride-sharing behemoth Uber faces a mounting tide of class action lawsuits from passengers alleging sexual assault by drivers. These lawsuits have been consolidated into a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) for streamlined proceedings, overseen by Judge Charles R. Breyer in California. However, Uber is attempting to stem the tide by filing motions to dismiss several cases within the MDL.
Click Here for a FREE Claim Review from an Uber or Lyft Sexual Assault Lawyer
On April 1st, Uber's legal team launched a multi-pronged attack, filing motions to dismiss six separate lawsuits. Here's a breakdown of their arguments:
Click Here for a FREE Claim Review from an Uber or Lyft Sexual Assault Lawyer
Judge Breyer has imposed a deadline for plaintiffs to counter Uber's motions by April 30th. Uber then has until May 14th to offer a rebuttal. Following these exchanges, the court will hold a hearing to determine the fate of the dismissal requests.
The core issue in these lawsuits centers on Uber's alleged negligence. Plaintiffs claim Uber failed to implement sufficient safety measures and conduct thorough driver screenings, despite documented instances of sexual assault. Investigations commissioned by Uber itself uncovered a shocking number of sexual assault reports against drivers between 2017 and 2020. This history of inaction casts a long shadow over Uber's defense.
Facing mounting public pressure, Uber finally rolled out several new safety features in April 2024:
While these safety features represent a positive step, many see them as a belated reaction to years of inadequate passenger protection. The Uber sexual assault lawsuits keep piling up, with a new case filed on April 5th by a Massachusetts passenger. This latest addition brings the total number of cases in the Uber assault MDL to over 200.
If Uber's motions to dismiss are unsuccessful, the court will likely choose a small group of representative cases, known as bellwether trials. These trials will test jury reactions to evidence and potentially set the stage for future settlements across the entire MDL. The outcomes of these bellwether trials could significantly impact the overall landscape of the litigation.
It's important to remember that Lyft also faces similar rideshare sexual assault lawsuits, highlighting a potential pattern within the industry.
Click Here for a FREE Claim Review from an Uber or Lyft Sexual Assault Lawyer
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault related to an Uber ride since 2009 or a Lyft ride since 2012, it's important to know there are actions to help navigate the aftermath. Here are some resources, but remember, this is not a substitute for professional legal advice:
Remember, you are not alone. Here are some resources that can offer support and guidance:
If you have experienced rideshare sexual assault, please know that help is available. Don't hesitate to reach out for the support you deserve.
Injury Claims keeps you informed about lawsuits large and small that could affect your daily life. We simplify the complexities of class actions lawsuits, open class action settlements, mass torts, and individual cases to ensure you understand how these legal matters could impact your rights and interests.
If you think a recent legal case might affect you, action is required. Select a class action lawsuit or class action settlement, share your details, and connect with a qualified attorney who will explain your legal options and assist in pursuing any compensation due. Take the first step now to secure your rights.