Uber Technologies Inc. is currently facing one of the largest waves of sexual assault lawsuits in U.S. history. Since 2017, thousands of survivors across the country have accused Uber drivers of sexual assault, harassment, and misconduct during rides arranged through the Uber app. Plaintiffs allege Uber’s negligence in failing to adequately screen drivers, ignoring prior complaints, and neglecting to implement effective safety measures, resulting in widespread harm to passengers.
Multidistrict Litigation and Case Consolidation
To efficiently manage the rapidly growing number of related lawsuits, these claims have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 3084) in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. As of August 2025, over 2,500 plaintiffs from more than 29 states have joined the MDL, with additional cases continuously being filed nationwide. The first bellwether trial in the MDL is scheduled for December 8, 2025.
Key Allegations Against Uber
- Inadequate Background Checks: Uber is accused of failing to thoroughly vet drivers, allowing individuals with histories of abusive or criminal behavior to operate on the platform.
- Ignoring Complaint Flags: Plaintiffs say Uber received multiple warnings and complaints about dangerous drivers but did not take timely action to remove or monitor them.
- Failure to Implement Safety Measures: The lawsuits highlight the absence of critical safety features such as in-car cameras, biometric driver verification, or prioritized female drivers.
- Corporate Negligence: Allegations include that former CEO Travis Kalanick and current CEO Dara Khosrowshahi prioritized growth and profits over passenger safety.
Notable Cases and Plaintiffs
One standout case, Dean v. Uber, involves an Arizona woman who alleges she was raped by an Uber driver after the company had already received multiple complaints about him, including for inappropriate sexual comments and touching. Uber purportedly failed to warn riders or take corrective action before the assault.
Similar cases across the MDL involve passengers from multiple states alleging a pattern of preventable attacks and negligent oversight by Uber.
Settlement Discussions and Legal Proceedings
With bellwether trials approaching, pressure has mounted on Uber to negotiate a global settlement. Settlement values are expected to range widely depending on the severity and circumstances of each case, with some estimates suggesting awards from $50,000 to over $1 million.
The court appointed a Settlement Master, the Honorable Gail A. Andler, to facilitate negotiations between plaintiffs and Uber, aiming to reach fair and efficient resolutions while individual cases proceed.
Industry and Social Impact
The extensive lawsuits have prompted Uber and competitors to reassess their safety protocols, including enhanced background checks, emergency assistance features, and partnerships with law enforcement. Yet advocates argue much more reform is needed to protect vulnerable riders.
Public awareness of ride-share safety has risen significantly, influencing consumer behavior and regulatory approaches nationwide.
Conclusion
The Uber sexual assault lawsuit exemplifies a critical legal and social reckoning over passenger safety in the gig economy. As litigation advances, it will define corporate responsibilities, legal accountability, and technological safety measures in rideshare services.
Survivors and advocates continue to call for justice and systemic change, while the legal system weighs settlements and trials that could shape the future of transportation safety nationwide.
