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Survivors Rights may help connect you with trusted attorneys pursuing justice and compensation for Uber sexual assault survivors.
When Uber’s app launched in 2010, it disrupted the traditional taxi industry. Seemingly overnight, getting from point A to point B in an urban environment without a car was more accessible, affordable, and convenient. No more waving down taxis, carrying cash, or waiting endlessly for a ride, only to be picked up by an unfriendly driver. With a few taps, you could get picked up anywhere, anytime. However, as Uber skyrocketed in popularity, a dark reality emerged—passenger safety was an afterthought.
For far too many riders, an Uber ride turned into a nightmare. Reports of sexual assaults by Uber drivers started piling up. It became apparent that Uber’s background check process and safety policies were woefully insufficient.
If you or someone you love was assaulted by an Uber driver, you may be eligible for compensation and legal justice. This guide breaks down everything survivors need to know—what Uber did (or didn’t do), what lawsuits are being filed, and how to take the first step toward accountability.
Uber has now published three U.S. Safety Reports—covering 2017–18, 2019–20, and 2021–22. Across those six years, the company disclosed a staggering 12,522 reports of sexual assault involving Uber rides.
To put that number into perspective: in Q2 of 2020 alone, Uber’s rides dropped by 75% due to the COVID pandemic. So that total—12,000+ assaults—occurred during a period when far fewer people were even using the service.
Still think it’s rare?
Picture a sold-out concert at a mid-sized arena. Every single seat occupied. Now imagine every person in that crowd is a survivor of an Uber sexual assault. Suddenly, the problem becomes impossible to ignore.
Uber’s own data shows:
Every day, an average of 5–6 new sexual assault reports occur during rides on its platform.
Fortunately, survivors are taking action. As of March 2025, more than 3,000 Uber sexual assault lawsuits are pending—and many of those involve multiple plaintiffs, meaning the true number of survivors may be even higher.
June 20, 2025
A federal magistrate judge has ordered Checkr and Accurate Background to hand over background check reports for Uber drivers accused of sexual assault in the ongoing MDL bellwether cases. These records, treated as “attorneys’‑eyes‑only,” could help establish whether Uber overlooked red flags during driver screening—central to plaintiffs’ claims of systemic negligence.
June 9, 2025
The Uber sexual assault litigation continues to expand, with over 2,800 lawsuits now active across federal and state courts—2,229 in the federal MDL and 619 in California’s coordinated proceeding (JCCP), which is the state equivalent of an MDL. This sharp rise reinforces allegations that Uber’s failure to prevent driver sexual misconduct is systemic, not sporadic.
Meanwhile, legal efforts are intensifying behind the scenes. Plaintiffs are pushing for access to background checks from Checkr and Accurate Background, two screening companies hired by Uber. Both have refused to comply without a court order, triggering a potential legal showdown. And in a major procedural development, a Settlement Master has been appointed (Judge Gail Andler), signaling that early negotiations are underway and that Uber may be preparing for a global resolution.
May 20, 2025
Law360 reports that Uber is trying to move 13 of the 20 sexual assault cases out of California, where the federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) is based. The company claims its terms of service require lawsuits to be heard in the state where each incident happened, such as Alabama, Georgia, Pennsylvania, etc.
But Uber’s tactic undermines the entire point of consolidating these cases into a single court: to expose systemic safety failures and hold the company accountable in one coordinated effort.
The cases were carefully selected by both sides under court supervision. They’ve already gone through months of discovery. Scattering them now would waste judicial resources, create delays, and risk inconsistent outcomes—all while benefiting the defendant.
Courts don’t always honor forum-selection clauses when they conflict with the public interest. Uber’s push to enforce them mid-litigation looks more like a strategic escape hatch than a legitimate legal argument.
May 19, 2025
At a hearing for the Uber Driver Sexual Assault MDL #3084 held earlier this month, Judge Charles Breyer made several important decisions about what plaintiffs’ lawyers can ask Uber in upcoming sworn depositions.
The plaintiffs had asked to question Uber about its past data deletion practices and whether the company had improperly used attorney-client privilege to hide information—claims they say point to a long-running cover-up. Uber pushed back, calling the requests too broad and based on speculation.
Judge Breyer issued a mixed ruling. He did not block the questions entirely, but did limit them. Plaintiffs can ask about Uber’s actual data retention policies and any missing documents tied to the case. However, they can’t ask questions based purely on rumors, books, or hearsay—such as claims from the book Super Pumped.
The judge also denied a request to force Uber executives to bring laptops and give live walkthroughs of company systems during depositions, saying that’s not allowed under court rules. If plaintiffs want to examine Uber’s systems, they’ll need to schedule that separately.
Lastly, Uber tried to reduce the amount of time its corporate witnesses must sit for questioning—from 10.5 hours to just 7. The judge rejected that request, saying Uber must follow the same rules previously set for all parties in the case.
May 16, 2025
Theodore Halls, Jr., a former Uber driver in Alabama is on trial for allegedly sexually assaulting two women during separate rides in 2020 and 2022. Both women were picked up near Auburn University and were reportedly unable to consent due to intoxication. Dashcam video and digital forensic evidence have become central to the prosecution’s case. Investigators say one of the women had no memory of the incident until she was later contacted by police after footage was recovered. The defendant, who remains in custody, faces multiple felony charges. One victim has reportedly settled a civil case with Uber, while the other lawsuit remains pending.
[June 17 update: WTVM (ABC 9) reports that Halls, Jr. was sentenced to more than 35 years in prison.]
May 7, 2025
The first bellwether trial in the Uber sexual assault multidistrict litigation (MDL #3084) is scheduled to begin on December 8, 2025, in the Northern District of California. U.S. District Judge Charles R. Breyer has selected six representative lawsuits involving a range of alleged assaults—from verbal harassment to rape—to test how juries respond to recurring claims in the broader litigation. The outcomes of these early trials will play a key role in shaping potential settlement strategies and guiding the resolution of more than 2,000 similar lawsuits pending against Uber.
May 5, 2025
At the end of March, 1,883 Uber driver sexual assault claims were consolidated in the multidistrict litigation (MDL). One month later, the number of claims surged 9.5%. There are now 2,062 active claims consolidated before Judge Charles Breyer in the Northern District of California in MDL #3084.
May 4, 2025
Police say 22-year-old Charles Willis used Uber to transport a 14-year-old girl from Barry County, Michigan, to his home in Northville. Authorities allege he unlawfully detained the girl and committed acts of abuse. Willis, who was reportedly already facing charges related to a prior incident, allegedly arranged and paid for the long-distance trip using the Uber app.
Although Uber’s policy prohibits unaccompanied minors from using the platform without adult supervision, questions persist about how well these rules are enforced. Investigators are reviewing how Willis was able to book the ride and whether the driver identified any warning signs. Law enforcement and safety experts continue to warn that rideshare apps are increasingly being misused by individuals targeting vulnerable users, including minors.
April 30, 2025
Police in Montgomery County have arrested Janaka Manatunga, 56, for allegedly assaulting a woman while working as an Uber driver. He was booked into the Montgomery County Jail on related charges, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators said the incident occurred near Market Street in The Woodlands, according to local media reports in Houston.
April 28, 2025
A female driver was allegedly sexually assaulted by a male passenger who requested a ride in North Seekonk. Upon arrival, he reportedly directed her down a secluded driveway, where he attempted to sexually assault her. The driver managed to escape by accelerating the vehicle, causing the assailant to flee. Police later arrested the suspect, James D. Oakes, 25, charging him with multiple offenses, including attempted sexual assault and kidnapping.
While you usually hear about passengers getting assaulted by Uber drivers, this case is different. It shows that drivers can be victims too. Some drivers have even taken legal action against Uber, saying the company didn’t do enough to protect them. Uber has tried adding things like an emergency button in the app and GPS tracking, but some drivers have voiced concern, claiming these actions are still not enough. Drivers are putting themselves at risk every time they pick someone up — and they deserve real protection, not just a few features on a phone. Rideshare sexual assault attorneys can also represent drivers. If you’re a rideshare driver who has been assaulted, take the first step of finding out what your legal rights are by filling out a brief, confidential form.
April 24, 2025
Uber has threatened to shut down operations in Colorado if House Bill 1291 becomes law. The bill would impose new rideshare safety rules, such as mandatory background checks every six months, faster investigation of driver complaints, and audio/video recording of all rides. Uber claims the requirements are technically unworkable and would risk rider privacy, while supporters of the bill argue that these reforms are necessary to address rampant sexual assault issues tied to rideshare platforms.
This debate comes as Uber faces nearly 2,000 sexual assault lawsuits consolidated in federal court. Survivors and lawmakers argue that Uber’s pushback proves the company prioritizes profits over safety.
April 22, 2025
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has filed a lawsuit accusing Uber of deceptive billing practices tied to its Uber One subscription service. According to the FTC complaint, users were enrolled without consent, billed before free trials ended, and forced to navigate up to 23 screens to cancel a subscription that was advertised as “cancel anytime.” Some users said they were charged despite never knowingly signing up—or even having an Uber account.
Why does this matter for Uber sexual assault survivors? It reveals a troubling pattern: a company willing to prioritize profits at the expense of transparency and safety. Whether it’s burying critical terms in greyed-out text or fighting to keep sexual assault claims in arbitration, Uber’s behavior shows a consistent disregard for user rights.
April 13, 2025
A lawsuit filed by the family of a 13-year-old girl who was dropped off by an Uber driver and then sexually assaulted has reached a confidential settlement. The incident occurred in 2021 after the girl was picked up around 1:30 a.m. in Ventura and dropped off in the Harvard Heights section of Los Angeles, where the assault occurred. Although Uber denied liability, the case highlights the rideshare giant’s ongoing legal challenges. The settlement adds to growing scrutiny over Uber’s safety practices, as more than 1,900 similar claims are now centralized in a federal MDL.
April 9, 2025
Plaintiffs in the Uber sexual assault multidistrict litigation (MDL) filed a request asking U.S. District Judge Charles R. Breyer to consolidate multiple survivor claims for the first bellwether trial scheduled for December 2025. Uber opposes this request, arguing that each case should be tried individually. Plaintiffs argue that shared facts—such as Uber’s failure to mandate cameras, vet drivers properly, or address safety concerns—make consolidation appropriate for judicial efficiency. If the judge grants this request, multiple survivors could present their cases together, which may shape the outcome of future Uber sexual assault settlement negotiations. For plaintiffs, this could mean a more powerful platform to demonstrate systemic failure and increase potential compensation through stronger, unified testimony.
April 7, 2025
Following the addition of three dozen cases in February, the Uber sexual assault MDL added 283 cases in March, bringing the total of consolidated federal cases (Uber Technologies, Passenger Sexual Assault Multidistrict Litigation; MDL No. 3084) to 1,883.
April 7, 2025
Colorado House Bill 1291 aims to strengthen safety rules for Uber and Lyft by requiring more frequent driver background checks, faster response times to complaints, and mandatory audio/video recording during rides. The legislation is supported by Rep. Jenny Willford, who filed a lawsuit against Lyft after her own experience with sexual assault by a rideshare driver. Survivors and advocates say the bill is long overdue and necessary to hold rideshare companies accountable for rider safety.
April 4, 2025
Uber driver sexual assaults are also taking place all-too-frequently north of the border. CTV reports that an Uber driver who is a resident of the Toronto suburb of Oakville, Ontario, has been arrested for sexual assault of an Uber passenger. Hassan Ali Khan, 24, is believed by investigators to have sexually assaulted additional victims. Investigators are asking anyone with information to come forward, and to keep in mind that there is no statute of limitation when it comes to reporting sexual assault in Ontario. In most U.S. states, survivors of sexual assault have more time than ever to come forward as state legislators have become increasingly trauma-informed.
April 2, 2025
Frantz Fleureme, 32, allegedly propositioned the victim, grabbed her hand and tried to force her to inappropriately touch him during the ride, which occurred on March 1, according to Middletown Borough Police.
April 1, 2025
A 23-year-old woman in East Hartford, Connecticut, was allegedly sexually assaulted by her Uber driver just seconds after beginning her ride around 4 a.m. The driver, identified as Isaac Boafo, reportedly pulled into a restaurant parking lot, climbed into the back seat, and assaulted the passenger. The victim fought back, escaped the vehicle, and contacted police after a second Uber driver advised her to call 911. Boafo was later arrested and charged with first-degree sexual assault and disorderly conduct.
March 29, 2025
Philadelphia resident Angel Lopez was arrested for allegedly arranging an Uber to transport a 13-year-old girl from Western Pennsylvania to his apartment, where he drugged the girl and committed sexual offenses. Authorities say the two met via TikTok. The case highlights how rideshare services like Uber are not doing enough to prevent the sexual exploitation of minors.
March 28, 2025
Uber driver Joseph Graston was found guilty of unlawful sexual contact and unlawful touching. His arrest stems from a June 2022 incident in which a woman took an Uber home from a Bangor nightclub and later reported she was sexually assaulted by the driver. This case adds to the growing national scrutiny over Uber’s safety practices and comes amid ongoing federal litigation involving 1,600 Uber sexual assault lawsuits.
March 27, 2025
Nevada lawmakers fast-tracked AB523, a bill that limits Uber’s liability for harm caused by its drivers or passengers, provided the company maintains at least $1 million in insurance coverage during rides—a reduction from the prior $1.5 million minimum. The bill is part of a six-year truce between Uber and the Nevada Justice Association, ending a heated legal and political fight. However, the bill does not shield Uber from ongoing lawsuits in the California multidistrict litigation (MDL), where the company faces over 1,600 sexual assault claims, including from survivors in Nevada.
March 24, 2025
A federal judge has ordered top Uber executives—including current CEO Dara Khosrowshahi and co-founder Travis Kalanick—to testify under oath in depositions for the Uber sexual assault multi-district litigation, which consolidates more than 1,600 cases filed by riders who allege they were sexually assaulted by Uber drivers. The ruling rejects Uber’s attempt to shield its leadership from depositions, stating that key safety decisions were made at the highest levels. Survivors claim Uber failed to vet drivers properly and falsely marketed its platform as safe.
March 12, 2025
A Georgia mother filed a lawsuit against Uber in Gwinnett County, alleging the company’s failure to implement proper safety measures enabled her 14-year-old daughter to be exploited after being transported by an Uber driver to meet a 24-year-old man now facing criminal charges. The lawsuit accuses Uber of negligence, asserting that the company prioritizes avoiding liability over protecting minors. This case adds to growing scrutiny of Uber’s handling of rider safety, especially involving minors, and comes as the company faces over 1,600 federal sexual assault cases consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in California—an effort Uber unsuccessfully tried to dismiss.
March 10, 2025
CBS News Miami reported that Uber driver Yaroslandys Romero, 35, who has been accused of sexually assaulting a female passenger, appeared in bond court after his arrest. Charged with sexual battery, battery and indecent exposure, Romero, according to an arrest report, picked up the victim from a friend’s house and initially drove as she sat in the backseat. After she had requested a phone charger, he suggested she move to the front seat to be closer to his phone. Once she sat up front, Romero allegedly began touching her arm and asked for a kiss. From there, the sexual assault took
place.
March 10, 2025
The Los Angeles Times reports that the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has denied Uber’s petition to break up the consolidated sexual assault lawsuits in the Multidistrict Litigation (MDL 3084). Uber had sought a writ of mandamus to overturn the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation’s (JPML) decision to centralize the cases under 28 U.S.C. § 1407, arguing that the lawsuits should not be grouped together. The Ninth Circuit rejected Uber’s request, ruling that the JPML had not committed legal error or abused its discretion in deciding to consolidate the claims.
The MDL consists of lawsuits filed by survivors of sexual assault and harassment who allege that Uber failed to take reasonable steps to prevent misconduct by its drivers. Uber argued that its collective action waiver—a clause in its terms of service that prevents customers from filing joint lawsuits—should block centralization. However, the Ninth Circuit ruled that Uber’s private agreements could not override the authority granted to the JPML under federal law. The court also clarified that, unlike class actions, MDL cases do not need to have common questions of fact that predominate over individual ones, reinforcing the legitimacy of consolidating these lawsuits. This decision allows the Uber sexual assault MDL to proceed in federal court as a centralized legal action.
February 12, 2025
Two new lawsuits filed in San Francisco Superior Court accuse Uber of negligence and false advertising, alleging the company failed to implement effective safety measures despite knowing that drivers were sexually assaulting passengers. The lawsuits involve 27 reported incidents from 2017 to 2024 and were brought by a total of 27 plaintiffs—24 women and three men in California and New York, the San Francisco Standard reported.
One lawsuit, filed by 21 women and two men, argues that Uber misrepresented its safety policies, particularly when marketing to vulnerable riders, such as intoxicated passengers and women traveling alone. The second lawsuit, filed by three women and one man, includes similar allegations of Uber failing to screen drivers properly and allowing repeated safety failures.
Both cases cite Uber’s 2019 Safety Report, which admitted that sexual assaults had occurred, yet plaintiffs argue the company continued neglecting proper driver screening and passenger protections. The lawsuits seek to hold Uber accountable under negligence and consumer protection laws, claiming the company’s failure to act responsibly put passengers at risk. Uber declined to comment on the litigation but stated it is working to improve safety measures.
Reading the latest headlines can be emotionally taxing. But taking action to pursue justice doesn’t have to be. In fact, thousands of lawsuits are moving forward. Don’t miss your window to file.
Uber operates in over 10,000 cities worldwide, completing millions of rides every day. But here’s the disturbing reality:
It’s not just a coincidence. Survivors and legal experts say that Uber’s background check system is deeply flawed, allowing predators to slip through the cracks.
Uber driver sexual assault lawsuits argue that the company prioritized growth and profit over passenger safety. Keep in mind that Uber is worth over $150 billion on the stock market (market capitalization as of early March 2025). Instead of implementing strong safety policies, Uber focused on getting as many drivers as possible on the road—fast. The company’s goal prioritized stock valuation over passenger safety.
From the start, Uber’s explosive growth was fueled by sidestepping the rules traditional taxi companies had to follow. Safety regulations, fingerprint checks, driver licensing—it all took a backseat to rapid expansion. While millions flocked to the app for cheaper, faster rides, few realized just how unregulated the experience was.
And when it came to passenger safety, Uber flat out lied. For years, the rideshare giant bragged about having top-tier background checks. In 2014, amid growing concerns over sexual assault committed by its drivers, Uber instituted a “Safe Ride Fee.” This $1 tack-on per ride was supposed to boost Uber’s efforts to promote rider safety. Instead, the Safe Ride Fees the company raked in—totalling approximately $500 million—went straight to its bottom line.
Uber quietly pocketed half a billion dollars in so-called “safety fees”—without delivering any real safety improvements. It was profit masquerading as protection.
In 2016, Uber agreed to a $25 million settlement over the misleading marketing claims. As part of the agreement, Uber could no longer market itself as “the safest ride on the road” and describe its background checks as “the gold standard.” The settlement was a slap on the wrist. And while every rider was paying the Safe Ride Fee, here’s the inconvenient truth about Uber’s paltry background checks…
These low-security background checks allowed thousands of drivers with criminal histories—including sexual misconduct—to get approved. This recklessness put scores of passengers, especially women, at serious risk. In fact, a 2018 CNN investigation revealed more than 100 Uber drivers had been accused of sexually assaulting or abusing passengers in just the preceding four years.
And that was just the beginning. Since that 2018 report, thousands more women and families have come forward, alleging that Uber’s background checks failed to keep known predators off the road.
Survivors are speaking up — and regulators are finally taking notice. In recent years, Uber has been forced to answer for its failure to protect riders from harm. One of the most significant actions? A $9 million penalty for under-reporting thousands of sexual assault cases in California.
In 2021, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved a $9 million settlement with Uber after the company failed to properly document and report these sexual assault incidents. After Uber disclosed receiving nearly 6,000 sexual assault and harassment reports in its first Safety Report, the CPUC demanded the company submit detailed data and respond to questions about the reported incidents. However, Uber refused to comply, arguing that releasing the information would be a “shocking violation of privacy.”
Reading about Uber’s deceptive and profit-driven tactics may add to the trauma that survivors have already endured. This is why it’s important to focus on what you as a survivor can control—seeking justice, holding Uber accountable, and finding the support you need to heal. Whether that means filing a lawsuit, connecting with survivor advocacy groups, or simply learning about your rights, you don’t have to go through this alone.
In its first Safety Report, Uber admitted to 6,000+ reports of sexual assault and harassment.
When regulators demanded answers, Uber refused—calling it a “shocking violation of privacy.”
If an Uber driver sexually assaulted you, you may have the right to sue Uber for negligence. These lawsuits argue that Uber:
The short answer: No.
If thousands of people have been sexually assaulted by Uber drivers, why isn’t there one big class action lawsuit where survivors can all file together? Wouldn’t that make things easier?
The reason: It wouldn’t be fair to survivors.
Class action lawsuits work best when all plaintiffs have identical claims, say, a defective product where every consumer experienced the same issue. (Example: defective airbags in cars that are recalled by the manufacturer.)
However, in sexual assault cases, every survivor’s experience is different. Some were groped. Some were raped. And some suffered physical injuries. Many survivors are coping with severe emotional trauma. The level of evidence, damages, and legal arguments vary from case to case.
In a class action, everyone gets the exact same settlement amount, often for pennies on the dollar of what a plaintiff jury verdict would award. The difference could mean a settlement of a few thousand bucks per class member versus a multi-million-dollar jury award for one plaintiff. Hypothetically, if a class action were to be certified to resolve Uber sexual assault lawsuits, survivors who have undergone the most harm might receive far less than they would in an individual lawsuit. Furthermore, a class action would take away control from survivors since class actions are typically handled by one legal team making decisions for everyone rather than letting survivors pursue justice in the best way for them.
Another key reason there’s no class action lawsuit against Uber is that the company has actively worked to block them.
Before 2018, Uber’s terms of service included mandatory arbitration and class action waivers, forcing survivors into private, undisclosed claim resolutions instead of allowing them to take Uber to court. These clauses were designed to prevent customers from filing lawsuits as a group, shielding Uber from public legal battles.
However, after mounting pressure from advocacy groups, media scrutiny, and legal challenges, Uber was forced to change its policy.
It’s important to note that 14 female survivors played a big role in these policy changes. They courageously came forward and sent a letter to Uber’s board requesting to be released from arbitration. Their bravery also resulted in Uber no longer requiring any survivors to sign nondisclosure agreements if they wish to speak out about their claims.
Thanks to the courage of these and other survivors, today, sexual assault survivors can sue Uber either individually or collectively through legal avenues like Multidistrict Litigation (MDL; see section below).
In other words, while Uber no longer forces arbitration, survivors must still pursue their cases separately rather than through a single class action.
–> Not sure if you have a case? Our legal intake team is here to listen — confidentially, respectfully, and at no cost to you.
Our compassionate intake specialists are here to help you get matched with an attorney who understands rideshare sexual assault cases. You won’t have to pay anything up front, and your information will stay completely confidential. The attorneys we work with operate on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case or receive a settlement.
Although every survivor’s experience is uniquely harrowing, the lawsuits share similar facts and claims. As mentioned, Uber’s effort to prevent a group legal action has been denied.
Consequently, as of March 2025, approximately 1,600 Uber sexual assault cases have been consolidated (grouped together) into the MDL. This means that 1,600 cases are joined together into one legal action.These grouped cases represent more than half of the 3,000 active Uber sexual assault cases. (In this context, “cases” refer to individual legal actions filed by survivors. A single lawsuit may include multiple cases, and the total number of cases does not equal the number of incidents, as some survivors have yet to file a claim.)
If you’re considering filing a claim, our intake team can help you understand your options confidentially and at no cost.
As noted above, a class action lawsuit involves many plaintiffs who share a similar claim against a defendant. The outcome applies to everyone in the class, whether they actively participate or not.
On the other hand, a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) is a group of separate lawsuits filed by different plaintiffs but consolidated into one federal district court for pretrial proceedings. These proceedings establish essential facts about the litigation and streamline evidence gathering and legal arguments. Each case remains individual, meaning plaintiffs can settle or go to trial separately.
The key difference is that in a class action, one ruling applies to all class members. While in an MDL, each case is handled separately after pretrial proceedings.
As of April 2025, the “Uber Passenger Sexual Assault Multi-District Litigation (MDL #3084)” has consolidated more than 2,000 pending cases across 29 states. The first test cases in the MDL (called “bellwether trials”) could potentially start toward the end of 2025 or in early 2026. The “Discovery Phase” of the litigation is scheduled to close towards the end of September 2025.
Overseen by Judge Charles Breyer, the MDL is in the pretrial phase and was approved by the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) in 2023 and centralized in the United States District Court’s Northern District of California. The MDL was assigned to this district because Uber’s headquarters is in San Francisco. This makes the Northern District of California the logical venue for federal cases involving multiple plaintiffs from different states.
(Uber unsuccessfully attempted to have the term “sexual assault” stricken from the MDL title.)
The MDL structure helps federal courts handle large volumes of similar lawsuits without clogging the system, and underscores just how widespread the allegations against Uber truly are.
According to the Northern District of California District Court, the litigation centers around the failure of Uber Technologies to:
“…implement appropriate safety precautions to protect passengers. Plaintiffs are former Uber passengers who were sexually assaulted or harassed by their Uber drivers. Plaintiffs bring various claims against Uber, including negligence, breach of contract, and product liability claims.”
When multiple people sue a company like Uber for similar reasons—like failing to protect passengers from sexual assault—those lawsuits can get really complicated. As mentioned, instead of having hundreds of separate cases scattered across different courts, an MDL groups them together in one court to streamline the process.
When hundreds of people sue the same company for the same reason—like Uber’s alleged failure to protect riders from sexual assault—MDLs streamline the legal process by grouping those lawsuits together.
Here’s why that matters for survivors:
Stronger Case with Shared Evidence
Attorneys can pool resources and avoid redundant investigations, creating a more powerful case.
Lower Legal Costs
Shared expert witnesses, depositions, and research reduce financial burden on survivors.
Faster Process
Grouped cases move through pretrial steps more quickly than thousands of separate lawsuits.
Better Settlement Leverage
Companies like Uber are more likely to settle when facing coordinated legal pressure.
Each Case Remains Individual
Unlike class actions, survivors in an MDL retain the right to pursue their own verdict or settlement.
Bottom line: An MDL levels the playing field against a powerful corporation like Uber—while keeping each survivor’s voice and case distinct.
It’s no surprise Uber has filed multiple motions to dismantle the MDL. If the company loses even a few of the initial bellwether trials, it could face substantial financial liability.
Bloomberg News announced that Uber Technologies Inc. failed to convince a San Francisco federal appeals court to separate more than a thousand lawsuits filed by riders who allege they were sexually assaulted by Uber drivers. In other words, Uber unsuccessfully tried to have the MDL blown up. The US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit rejected Uber’s argument that its terms of use agreement prevents passengers from filing coordinated or consolidated lawsuits against the company. Thus, the MDL stands as a potential legal avenue for survivors to receive a significant settlement or jury award for the nightmare they have endured.
The MDL isn’t the only Uber sexual assault litigation on the books. Hundreds of similar lawsuits have also been filed in state courts. A roughly equal number of state-level Uber sexual assault lawsuits have been filed, bringing the total number of federal and state lawsuits to more than 3,000 as of March 2025.
To reiterate the massive scope of Uber’s negligence, based on its own data, 9,805 reports of sexual assault incidents were reported in its rides, including 852 reports of rape. However, these incidents only represent 2017 through the end of 2022. There are likely hundreds of additional incidents. Considering these sobering statistics, it’s very likely that many more plaintiffs will be added to the MDL or state court dockets.
Not every case joins the MDL. Here’s why:
Location of Incident
If the assault occurred in your home state (say, New York or Florida), your case may remain in that state’s court system.
State Legal Protections
Some states offer longer statutes of limitations or more favorable legal protections for survivors.
Strategic Advantage
Depending on the facts of your case, filing in a state court might offer a clearer path to trial or settlement.
Cases placed into the MDL are generally considered stronger and more likely to result in higher settlements—but filing in state court can still lead to meaningful compensation.
Confused about which option is right? You’re not alone. Our intake team can help you connect with an experienced Uber sexual assault attorney who can evaluate your case.
If you were sexually assaulted during or after an Uber ride, you might be wondering if you have the right to take legal action. Many survivors are eligible to file lawsuits against Uber—whether the assault happened inside the vehicle, after the ride ended, or under circumstances where Uber’s negligence played a role.
Here are some of the main types of survivors who may be eligible to file an Uber sexual assault lawsuit:
The majority of Uber sexual assault lawsuits involve riders who were attacked by their drivers. This includes any form of sexual violence, from unwanted touching and groping to rape and other non-consensual acts. Even if you were not physically harmed, you may still be able to file a lawsuit if the driver engaged in harassment, coercion, or any form of sexual misconduct.
You may also be eligible to file a lawsuit if you were assaulted because of Uber’s negligence, even if the perpetrator wasn’t the driver. Examples include:
Some drivers have also been victims of sexual assault by riders. If you were attacked while working for Uber and the company failed to protect you, you may also have grounds for legal action.
Consent is not legally valid if the victim is under 18, intoxicated, asleep, or otherwise incapacitated when the assault occurs. If an Uber driver took advantage of your vulnerability, you still have the right to pursue justice, even if you don’t remember all the details of the incident.
Even if the memory is blurry or delayed, your story still matters—and support is available.
Many survivors feel uncertain about whether they have a case, especially if they don’t remember everything or didn’t report the assault immediately. But here’s the truth: You don’t have to have all the answers right now.
An experienced rideshare sexual assault lawyer can review your situation confidentially and help you determine the best legal path forward. Even if you’re unsure, reaching out for legal guidance is free and could help you understand your rights.
Most Uber sexual assault lawsuits focus on holding the company accountable for its lack of proper safety measures and failure to vet drivers adequately (insufficient background checks). Survivors may also choose to sue the driver individually, depending on the circumstances.
Here’s what your options look like:
As mentioned earlier, Uber falsely marketed itself as a safe transportation option. Yet, there have been more than 10,000 incidents of sexual assault by Uber drivers for the six years Uber has released safety reports (2017-2022). Survivors can file a lawsuit against Uber for failing to properly screen drivers, protect passengers, and take appropriate action when misconduct is reported.
These lawsuits argue that Uber prioritized rapid growth and profit over rider safety, allowing dangerous individuals to drive for the platform without thorough background checks or oversight. If Uber knew about the safety risks and failed to act, the company can be held responsible.
In some cases, survivors may also choose to sue the driver directly for sexual assault, harassment, or other misconduct. However, this route may not always be practical—many drivers lack the financial resources to compensate victims. In most situations, suing Uber is the more effective path to justice.
It’s also important to understand that individuals cannot file criminal charges against an Uber driver for sexual assault—only a District Attorney can prosecute criminal cases. However, survivors can file a civil lawsuit to seek financial compensation for medical expenses, therapy, lost wages, and other damages.
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The statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. It varies by state—but in some, that window could be as short as one or two years. Other states give survivors more time, especially if the survivor was underage when the assault occurred.
Additionally, Some states have passed “lookback window” laws—temporary openings that let survivors file lawsuits even if the assault happened long ago. These windows are limited-time opportunities, and each state has different rules. That’s why it’s essential to speak with an attorney familiar with the latest laws in your state.
In certain cases, survivors may be able to file after the standard deadline has passed. For example, some states follow a “delayed discovery rule,” which allows extra time if a survivor only recently linked their trauma to the assault. Similarly, if Uber tried to hide evidence of its negligence, an attorney may argue the time limit should be extended.
Unsure if the window has closed for your opportunity to hold Uber accountable and receive compensation for the trauma you’ve endured?
A qualified rideshare assault lawyer can help you understand your rights. Our intake staff may help connect you with an attorney specializing in these delicate cases.
If you win your case against Uber, you may be entitled to significant financial compensation, which can include:
While no amount of money can erase the trauma, it can help survivors rebuild their lives and hold Uber accountable.
If you’re considering legal action, here’s what you need to do:
Going up against a billion-dollar company like Uber isn’t easy. Survivors who have an experienced attorney on their side are far more likely to win their cases and receive fair compensation.
If you or a loved one has been assaulted by an Uber driver, you have rights. Holding Uber accountable can help prevent future assaults and give survivors the justice they deserve.
Don’t wait—time limits apply. Contact our intake department so that you may be connected with a rideshare driver sexual assault attorney and receive a free and confidential consultation.
Your voice matters. Your case matters. Let’s fight for the justice you deserve.
If you’re a survivor of sexual assault involving an Uber driver, you likely have many questions about your legal options, rights, and what to expect.
Yes. Survivors can file lawsuits against Uber as a company for failing to protect passengers and properly screen drivers. You may also be able to sue the driver individually, though many survivors choose to focus their legal action on Uber because the company has greater financial responsibility and liability.
No. While thousands of survivors have come forward, sexual assault cases are not handled as a class action because each survivor’s experience is unique. Instead, lawsuits have been consolidated into Multidistrict Litigation (MDL 3084), which allows survivors to file separately while sharing pretrial proceedings. Uber driver sexual assault lawsuits have also been filed in several state courts.
Class action lawsuits treat all plaintiffs as a single group, and one outcome applies to everyone.
MDLs group cases together for efficiency, but each survivor’s lawsuit remains separate and can have its own outcome or settlement.
This means that in an MDL, you maintain control over your individual case rather than being forced into a single settlement.
You may qualify if you:
✔ Were a passenger assaulted by an Uber driver
✔ Were sexually assaulted due to an Uber driver’s negligence
✔ Were harassed, stalked, or harmed by an Uber driver before, during, or after a ride
✔ Were under 18, intoxicated, or unconscious at the time of the assault
If you’re unsure, an Uber sexual assault attorney can review your case and help determine your legal options.
If your lawsuit is successful, you may be eligible for compensation for:
Settlement amounts vary depending on case strength, evidence, and severity of the assault.
This depends on state laws. Each state has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit. Some states allow only a few years, while others have extended time limits. Speaking with a lawyer as soon as possible can help ensure you don’t miss your chance to file.
Not necessarily. Most cases settle before trial, meaning you may never have to go to court. However, if your case does proceed to trial, an attorney will support you through the process to ensure you feel safe and prepared.
Even if you don’t recall all the details, you may still have a case. If you were intoxicated, unconscious, or in shock, that does not mean the assault didn’t happen. An attorney can help gather evidence and build your case based on available records, such as Uber ride logs and law enforcement reports.
No. Uber cannot legally retaliate against survivors who take legal action. If you experience harassment or threats after filing, notify your attorney immediately.
Most Uber sexual assault attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. They only get paid if you win your case, taking a percentage of your settlement or verdict.
First, speak with an experienced Uber sexual assault lawyer. They will:
✔ Evaluate your case for free
✔ Explain your legal options
✔ Handle all legal filings and negotiations
There is no pressure to take legal action. But at the very least, it helps to understand what your legal rights are. Contact us so that we may connect you with an experienced Uber sexual assault attorney today for a free, confidential consultation.