The Uber MDL is Picking Up Steam
Uber Faces Growing Number of Sexual Assault Lawsuits
In recent years, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have largely replaced traditional taxicabs across the United States, with millions of people relying on these services for their transportation needs. However, Uber has been facing a surge of allegations and civil lawsuits from passengers claiming they were sexually assaulted by Uber drivers. These lawsuits argue that Uber should be held liable for these assaults due to its alleged negligence in screening drivers properly.
Consolidation of Lawsuits into MDL No. 3084
Recently, a significant number of sexual assault lawsuits against Uber have been consolidated into a new class action lawsuit: In re: Uber Technologies Inc., Passenger Sexual Assault Litigation (MDL No. 3084). This multidistrict litigation (MDL) currently includes 319 plaintiffs, but this number will soon decrease to 235 due to a stipulation to dismiss 84 plaintiffs who have pending cases in California state court. Additionally, there are 395 lawsuits pending outside the MDL in California's Judicial Council Coordinated Proceedings (JCCP).
Key Litigation Updates
June 15, 2024: The first trial in the Uber sexual assault MDL is anticipated to begin next summer in California state court. The judge has reserved the entire summer for the trial, indicating the complexity and importance of the case.
June 10, 2024: In a recent hearing, Uber's attorneys argued that the rideshare app should not be subject to traditional product liability laws since it is not a tangible product. Judge Breyer expressed skepticism about this argument, emphasizing that legal protections must adapt to technological changes even if the nature of harm remains the same. Uber also contended that it should not be liable for assaults committed by drivers, as these actions were personal and unrelated to their job duties. The judge, however, pointed out that there is a clear connection between the assaults and the drivers' roles, as their employment facilitated the circumstances for these incidents.
June 6, 2024: A new lawsuit was filed in Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana, where a woman alleges she was sexually assaulted by an Uber driver during a ride arranged through the Uber app on June 5, 2023.
May 22, 2024: Judge Breyer ruled against Uber's attempt to use its app's terms of use to prevent the consolidation of sexual assault lawsuits. The judge determined that enforcing the clause would undermine the judiciary's ability to manage ongoing litigation and interfere with public interests. This ruling allows the MDL to proceed.
领英推荐
Recent Case Filings and Incidents
May 30, 2024: In California, a plaintiff filed a lawsuit alleging sexual assault by her Uber driver during a ride to a medical appointment. The driver allegedly assaulted her in the back seat of the vehicle. This incident has had a profound impact on the plaintiff, causing ongoing trauma and significantly affecting her personal relationships.
May 3, 2024: A new lawsuit was filed in Massachusetts by a Boston woman who alleges she was raped by her Uber driver outside her home. This case is expected to be moved to federal court based on diversity jurisdiction and then transferred into the MDL.
Seeking Justice and Accountability
The ongoing litigation against Uber highlights the growing scrutiny and legal challenges the rideshare giant faces concerning passenger safety and driver screening processes. As these cases progress, they will likely shape the future of rideshare liability and regulatory practices.
How Blue Sky Legal Can Support Your Firm
At Blue Sky Legal, we specialize in comprehensive advertising and intake services tailored for attorneys seeking to engage in high-stakes litigation, such as Uber sexual assault cases. Our expertise in legal marketing ensures that your firm can effectively reach and recruit potential victims through targeted ad campaigns and streamlined intake processes.
Our Services Include:
Partner with Blue Sky Legal to enhance your firm's capabilities in managing Uber sexual assault cases. Pay us a visit to learn how we can help you build a robust case portfolio and support your clients through this challenging process.