Federal Jury Finds Uber Liable for Sexual Assault, Orders $8.5 Million in Damages
A federal jury in Phoenix has ruled that Uber is responsible for the sexual assault of one of its passengers, marking a significant legal victory for victims of ride-share crimes. The case, brought by Jaylynn Dean, who was raped by her Uber driver in November 2023, has set a precedent for over 3,000 similar cases currently pending in US federal court. The jury has ordered Uber to pay $8.5 million in damages to Dean.
Sarah London, co-lead counsel for the plaintiffs, hailed the verdict as a validation of the many survivors who have spoken out against Uber’s negligence in passenger safety. She stated, “The jury recognized that Uber must be held accountable for the actions of its drivers and put an end to its profit-driven practices at the expense of passenger safety.”
According to Uber’s latest US safety report, the company received 12,522 reports of sexual assault incidents between 2017-2022, with the majority involving drivers. In response to the verdict, Uber spokesperson Matt Kallman announced plans to appeal, claiming that the company has made significant investments in rider safety.
Kallman stated, “This verdict affirms that Uber has taken responsible actions and prioritized safety measures for its passengers. We remain committed to ensuring safety is at the forefront of our operations.”
Judge Charles Breyer presided over Dean’s case and is also overseeing the consolidated federal lawsuits against Uber. While the verdict is not binding on other cases, it could serve as a guiding precedent for future court proceedings. The outcome of Dean’s trial highlights the importance of holding companies like Uber accountable for ensuring the safety and well-being of their customers.