Uber Faces $8.5 Million Verdict in Driver Assault Lawsuit
A U.S. jury has ruled in favor of a woman who claims she was sexually assaulted by an Uber driver, ordering the ride-hailing company to pay $8.5 million in damages. This verdict, issued in Phoenix, Arizona, marks a crucial moment in a series of similar cases against Uber.
Details of the Lawsuit
The case was filed by Jaylynn Dean, who was 19 at the time of the incident. Dean’s lawsuit is one of over 3,000 consolidated cases against Uber in federal court. These cases have been grouped together to allow for efficient trial processes, with Dean’s trial acting as a bellwether for future claims.
Jury Findings and Damages
- The jury found Uber liable for the actions of its driver.
- Compensatory damages awarded: $8.5 million.
- Punitive damages were not granted.
Despite seeking over $140 million, Dean’s attorneys were only awarded the compensatory sum. The jury concluded that the driver acted as an agent of Uber, connecting the company to the assault.
The Aftermath
Following the verdict, Uber’s stock price fell by 1.5% in after-hours trading, while rival Lyft’s shares decreased by 1.8%. An Uber spokesperson stated that the company plans to appeal the decision, emphasizing that the jury rejected claims of company negligence and defective safety systems.
Response from Attorneys
Sarah London, one of Dean’s lawyers, expressed that the verdict supports survivors seeking accountability from Uber. Dean had alleged that the company neglected to implement crucial safety measures, despite being aware of previous assaults by drivers.
Background of the Incident
Dean claims she was intoxicated when she requested an Uber ride after leaving her boyfriend’s house. During the ride, she alleges that the driver asked inappropriate questions and subsequently assaulted her.
Legal Implications for Uber
U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer oversaw the case in Phoenix and is managing other consolidated cases against Uber. The ride-hailing service is also facing over 500 additional lawsuits in California state courts. In a previous trial in California, a jury sided with Uber, finding the company negligent but not significantly responsible for the harm caused.
Future of Uber’s Safety Protocols
Industry analysts suggest that this verdict may influence Uber’s safety measures. Mark Giarelli from Morningstar noted that the company might bolster its background checks in response to growing concerns. Increased scrutiny over driver vetting processes could shape the future of rideshare safety across platforms like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash.
