Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a staple of modern transportation—offering convenience, affordability, and accessibility. But behind the sleek app interface and promises of safety lies a troubling reality: a growing number of sexual assault allegations involving Uber drivers across the United States, including many in New York.
A recent investigative report by The New York Times revealed that Uber received over 400,000 reports of sexual assault and misconduct between 2017 and 2022—an average of one report every eight minutes. These numbers are far higher than what the company has publicly disclosed, raising serious concerns about transparency, accountability, and the safety of passengers.
What the Data Reveals
Court documents and internal Uber communications show that:
- The majority of victims are women, often traveling alone at night or from locations near bars.
- Many assaults were committed by drivers with prior complaints or low ratings.
- Uber developed tools to predict and prevent high-risk rides but failed to fully implement or act on them.
- Promising safety features—like mandatory video recording and female driver-passenger matching—were shelved due to business model concerns and fear of legal liability.
Despite public safety campaigns, Uber has prioritized growth and profit over passenger protection. The company’s classification of drivers as independent contractors has allowed it to avoid many responsibilities typically required of employers, including mandatory safety training and equipment.
Why This Matters in the Hudson Valley
While the Hudson Valley may feel far removed from the headlines of Silicon Valley or New York City, rideshare services are widely used in our region—from college campuses to weekend getaways in the Catskills. Victims of sexual assault in rideshare vehicles often face unique challenges:
- Delayed or inadequate responses from the rideshare company.
- Difficulty identifying the responsible party—the driver, the platform, or both.
- Emotional trauma compounded by fear, shame, or uncertainty about legal options.
At our firm, we believe that no one should feel unsafe while using a service that promises protection. Survivors deserve justice, and companies must be held accountable when they fail to prevent foreseeable harm.
Your Legal Rights as a Victim
If you or someone you love has been assaulted during a rideshare trip, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Our legal team can help you:
- Investigate the incident and gather evidence.
- Determine liability—whether it lies with the driver, Uber, or both.
- Pursue compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, lost wages, and more.
We understand the courage it takes to come forward. Our attorneys offer compassionate, confidential consultations and will fight to ensure your voice is heard.
Moving Forward: Advocacy and Accountability
Uber’s failure to act decisively on known safety risks is a stark reminder of the importance of corporate accountability. As personal injury attorneys, we are committed to advocating for safer communities and supporting survivors in their pursuit of justice.
If you’ve been affected by a rideshare-related assault in the Hudson Valley, don’t face it alone. Contact us today to learn how we can help.