A federal jury on Thursday ordered Uber to pay $8.5 million after finding the ride-sharing company responsible in a lawsuit brought by a passenger who was sexually assaulted while using the service in Arizona.
Uber Found Liable in Sexual Assault Case
This marks the first time Uber has been found guilty and sentenced to pay damages for responsibility in a sexual assault in the United States, a decision that could influence thousands of similar cases against the technology company.
The lawsuit was filed by Jaylynn Dean, who claimed she was violated by an Uber driver while under the influence of alcohol and returning to her hotel in Tempe, Arizona.
Attorneys for Dean, cited by the Arizona’s Family newspaper, argued in court that Uber promoted itself as a safe service for women who had been drinking alcohol, despite a series of complaints and its own data indicating this demographic was, in fact, at greater risk of sexual assault.
They also argued that Uber did not verify the driver’s criminal background in the U.S. Or his country of origin. At the time of the assault, the company did not offer female drivers as a service option, nor did it record video or audio during rides.
Uber argued it was not responsible, stating that drivers are independent contractors, not employees. The company also claimed the woman consented to sexual relations, despite the driver admitting she was too intoxicated to consent.
Uber fired the driver for engaging in sexual activity during a ride, which is prohibited. The nine-person jury deliberated for nearly three days before finding Uber responsible for one of the three charges against it.
The company faces thousands of similar lawsuits. In July 2022, approximately 550 American women filed a lawsuit in California against Uber alleging they were assaulted by drivers while inside vehicles contracted through the platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who filed the lawsuit against Uber?
The lawsuit was filed by Jaylynn Dean.
Where did the alleged assault accept place?
The alleged assault took place in Tempe, Arizona, in November 2023.
What was the amount of the jury’s award?
The jury ordered Uber to pay $8.5 million.
How will this ruling affect future cases against Uber and other ride-sharing companies?
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