The class action lawsuit against Uber over sexual assault cases is seeing major updates. A judge has ordered Uber to share full data on sexual misconduct reports from 2017 to 2020, rejecting the company’s concerns about the accuracy of these reports. This decision was made on July 19, 2024, and a new hearing will now focus on how depositions and data are handled. As of July 2024, 321 lawsuits are active, showing how serious the safety concerns have become. The case is focused on how Uber has responded to passenger safety issues and whether its safety measures are good enough.
October 2024 Updates in Uber Sexual Assault Case
October 22, 2024 – Disagreement Over Contacting Former Employees
Uber and the plaintiffs are arguing over whether lawyers can contact Uber’s former workers. Uber wants these contacts to be pre-approved, saying they may break legal rules. Plaintiffs say they haven’t done anything wrong.
October 18, 2024 – New Case Filed in New Jersey
A woman from New Jersey filed a lawsuit saying she was sexually assaulted by Uber drivers in January and July 2023. She is asking for compensation and wants the case to go to a jury.
October 16, 2024 – Court Blocks Uber’s Attempt to Hide Certain Documents
Uber tried to take back documents it said were protected by legal privilege. The court denied this and ruled that one document, the “Safety Criteria Update Comms Plan,” was not legally protected because it was about company policy, not legal advice.
October 8, 2024 – Lawyers Request Uber’s Lobbying Records
The plaintiffs want access to records from Uber’s lobbying efforts with Ballard Partners. They believe these may show that Uber tried to stop safety laws from being passed, even when it knew about the risks to passengers.
October 5, 2024 – Discovery Disputes Discussed
A court meeting took place to discuss ongoing issues with Uber’s sharing of documents, including how files linked in emails should be handled. There are also disagreements over which employee records must be shared.
October 1, 2024 – More Cases Added to Uber MDL
In September 2024, 83 new lawsuits were added to the Uber sexual assault MDL (multi-district litigation), bringing the total number of cases to 1,346. The number continues to grow rapidly.
Earlier Legal Developments
September 17, 2024 – Uber Tries to Dismiss Lawsuits
Uber asked the court to dismiss several lawsuits in California and New York, claiming legal jurisdiction issues. These efforts are expected to be strongly challenged by plaintiffs.
September 13, 2024 – Another Lawsuit Filed in California
A new complaint says an Uber driver acted inappropriately during a ride. This adds to many similar cases in the state.
September 10, 2024 – Massive Increase in Uber Assault Cases
In one month, the number of lawsuits in the Uber MDL jumped from 387 to 1,263, a major surge that’s being called one of the biggest in MDL history.
September 3, 2024 – Court Says Uber Has Duty of Care
The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Uber has a legal responsibility to protect both drivers and passengers. This ruling may play a big role in the ongoing lawsuit.
August 28, 2024 – Court Prepares for Next Steps
A meeting was held to talk about the next steps in the lawsuit, including how to handle new filings, motions, and possible settlements.
Other Important Events in 2024
April 16, 2024 – Dispute Over Electronic Files
Plaintiffs want full access to documents linked in emails. Uber suggests only giving them when requested.
April 12, 2024 – Uber Adds New Safety Features
To improve safety, Uber launched features like RideCheck, PIN code confirmation, trip audio recording, and real-time ride sharing with others.
April 9, 2024 – Uber Investors File Lawsuit
A separate lawsuit claims Uber misled investors by downplaying sexual assault issues, possibly inflating its stock value.
April 1, 2024 – MDL Reaches 230 Cases
At the start of April, 43 new cases had been added, bringing the total to 230.
March 22, 2024 – Fact Sheet Exchange Ordered
The court created a format and schedule for both sides to share important case information.
March 6, 2024 – Uber Ordered to Share Investigation Documents
Uber was told to provide documents about government investigations into sexual misconduct by its drivers.
The Hidden Risks of Ridesharing
Apps like Uber and Lyft have made getting around easier, but they also bring safety risks. Many people have reported being harassed or assaulted by drivers.
Is Ridesharing Safe?
Even though Uber and Lyft say they do background checks, many people still feel unsafe. Reports and lawsuits suggest that more needs to be done.
What the Reports Say
Uber’s own report said there were almost 6,000 serious sexual assaults in 2017–2018. Lyft’s report showed over 4,000 sexual assaults between 2017–2019. This includes:
- Unwanted kissing
- Inappropriate touching
- Attempts of sexual assault
- Non-consensual sex
Experts believe the real number may be much higher, as many victims don’t report these incidents.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault while using a rideshare service, talk to an experienced lawyer to understand your rights. For more updates and legal resources, visit Digital Gen Media.
Sure! Here’s your full content rewritten in a clear, simple, and easy-to-read format, while keeping the key information and tone serious and informative:
Do Background Checks Actually Keep Rideshare Users Safe?
Uber and Lyft say they do background checks, but that doesn’t always mean riders are safe. A 2018 CNN investigation showed that some drivers with criminal records still made it onto the platforms. This led to lawsuits from passengers who said the companies didn’t do enough to protect them.
Are Uber and Lyft Doing Enough to Keep Riders Safe?
More and more lawsuits are being filed against Uber and Lyft. Victims say these companies didn’t put strong safety rules in place and didn’t respond properly when someone reported an assault. Many feel that the companies failed not only before the attacks—but also afterward.
As of January 2024, there were 187 active lawsuits in a major legal case (called an MDL or multidistrict litigation) in Northern California. These cases claim that weak safety practices have led to many assaults and harassment incidents.
Tips for Staying Safe When Using Rideshare Services
While Uber and Lyft are convenient, safety should always come first. Here are some helpful tips:
- Check the Driver and Car: Always match the driver’s photo, name, and car details with the app.
- Ask “Who’s This Ride For?”: Before getting in, ask the driver to say your name—not the other way around.
- Watch the Route: Speak up if the driver takes a strange path. If you feel unsafe, ask to stop somewhere public.
- Sit in the Back: It gives you more space and an easier exit if needed.
- Keep Personal Info Private: Don’t share too much about yourself with the driver.
- Wear Your Seatbelt: Always buckle up—safety first.
- Use Safety Apps: Some apps let you record video or send alerts in emergencies.
- Share Your Ride: Ride with a friend when you can.
- Wait in Safe Areas: Stay in a public, well-lit spot while waiting for your ride.
- Pay Attention to Behavior: If the driver acts oddly or makes you uncomfortable, report it right away.
- Smart Drop-Offs: Ask to be dropped a little away from your home, especially if you’re alone.
- Trust Your Gut: If something doesn’t feel right, cancel the ride.
Why We Need More Than Background Checks
Just doing a background check once isn’t enough. Advocates are now asking for:
- Ongoing checks and real-time monitoring
- In-car cameras for added security
- Safety tools like emergency buttons
- More transparent reporting on driver behavior
- Regular training for drivers to prevent harassment
In California, the Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is working to make sure rideshare companies take stronger steps to protect riders, not just rely on one-time background checks.
The Real Impact of Rideshare Assaults
Survivors of rideshare assaults often face emotional and mental challenges that last long after the incident. These include anxiety, depression, fear of traveling, and other trauma-related symptoms. Recovering can be a long and difficult journey.
Understanding Rideshare Sexual Assault
Sexual assault means unwanted touching or actions without consent. In rideshare cases, this often happens when a driver crosses personal boundaries. No matter how small the action may seem, if it’s without permission, it’s not okay—and it’s against the law.
What Victims Can Do Legally
If you or someone you know has been assaulted in a rideshare, here are important steps:
- Get Medical Help: See a doctor right away, if needed.
- Document Everything: Write down what happened while it’s fresh in your mind.
- Talk to a Lawyer: Legal experts can help you understand your rights and guide you through the next steps.
- Save Evidence: Medical reports or phone records can help in legal cases—even if no physical evidence is available.
Seeking Justice and Change
Many survivors are now taking legal action, saying Uber and Lyft failed to keep them safe. These lawsuits are pushing for better background checks, stricter safety rules, and real support for victims.
If you were assaulted during an Uber ride after 2009 or a Lyft ride after 2012, there are legal options available. You are not alone—and help is available.
To learn more or connect with legal support, visit Digital Gen Media.
