The problem of sexual assault during an Uber ride is, unfortunately, rather common throughout California. But as recent multidistrict litigation shows, it’s an ongoing problem throughout the country. At Rideshare Law Office, our team can help you if you’ve experienced sexual assault or other forms of sexual battery during an Uber ride in California. To learn more about your options, contact us today for a free consultation.
What is the Uber MDL?
As of November 2024, a new multidistrict litigation (MDL) case against Uber was transferred to the U.S. District Court in San Francisco. The MDL, which currently has 1,411 plaintiffs in 29 states and is expected to grow as the claim progresses, was brought because of years of instances of sexual assaults on Uber passengers by drivers.
An MDL is not a classic class action lawsuit, where there’s a number of plaintiffs who all have basically the same claim. Rather, an MDL consolidates federal claims into one district for pretrial proceedings–scheduling, conferences, hearings, etc.
This MDL is built around Uber’s policies pertaining to sexual assault. Although the company has a number of safety rules and regulations to handle reports of sexual assault, it ultimately has no control once the ride actually starts. That, obviously, leads to instances of sexual assault or battery like:
- Unwanted touching or groping
- Sexual comments or advances
- Coerced sexual acts
- Indecent exposure
- Taking advantage of someone who is intoxicated
If you’ve faced any form of sexual assault or abuse during an Uber ride, you can file a personal injury lawsuit in California. You can also join an MDL, but it’s important to understand how the process works–and what you need to do.
What Can You Do to Protect Yourself After a Sexual Assault During an Uber Ride?
No one ever expects to experience sexual assault, but riding in an Uber can sometimes present this risk. If it happens, knowing how to respond is crucial:
- Call the police – Call the police right away and report the incident. Law enforcement will start an investigation and gather important information you can potentially use.
- Report to Uber – At the same time, report the incident to Uber so they can respond. They’ll typically follow their own policies and investigate what happened.
- Get medical care – Visit a doctor as soon as you can, even if you don’t see any injuries. Medical exams can document evidence and make sure you get the care and support you need.
- Document what happened – Do what you can to remember everything about the incident, including the date, time, location, and details about the driver. Save any receipts or communications related to the ride.
Obviously, Uber as a company takes sexual assault allegations and incidents seriously, as do police. The issue, though, is that these are very difficult situations, where it’s hard to know what steps to take–let alone remember key details or gather information. That’s where our team can step in and help you.
Contact Rideshare Law Office After a Sexual Assault Incident
Experiencing sexual assault or abuse in an Uber can cause lasting trauma. At Rideshare Law Office, we understand how deeply these incidents affect you and many others. We’re here to support you in joining the MDL and holding both Uber and the person that subjected you to the abuse or assault accountable.
This isn’t just possible with criminal charges. Joining the MDL potentially gives you access to civil damages like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income from missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
- Loss of companionship
- Punitive damages
Don’t wait–contact us today for a free, private consultation to learn more about your options.
