Assaults by Uber Drivers in Owings Mills: What Are My Legal Options?

While Uber crashes can certainly cause serious injuries, riders also face threats from the Uber drivers themselves. These drivers have repeatedly assaulted riders in the past, and some of these incidents have left victims with horrific injuries. The psychological effects of a violent assault can also be life-altering, especially when these attacks are of a sexual nature. If you have gone through something like this, you might want to speak with a lawyer in Owings Mills who has experience with Uber lawsuits.

Why Do Uber Drivers Assault Their Riders?

Assaults involving Uber drivers are becoming all too common. Uber tracks data related to these incidents, and the tech company is legally required to release this information to the public. Statistics show that both riders and drivers may initiate assaults in Uber vehicles. However, riders only attacked their drivers in 45% of these incidents. Most Uber assaults are carried out by drivers.

These assaults may occur for various reasons. First and foremost, the drivers may be mentally unstable people. Many struggle with mental health issues, and Uber has come under scrutiny for not properly vetting drivers likely to commit assaults in the future. These drivers are often under serious financial pressures, and many resort to driving Uber vehicles in their spare time while working second or third jobs. With so much financial stress, even an offhand remark or minor dispute may cause these drivers to become violent.

Many assaults occur due to payment disputes. Even if the rider refuses to pay, this is not a valid excuse for violence. To resolve payment disputes, drivers must always call 9-11 before becoming violent. Physical violence is only justified in rare circumstances involving self-defense. Due to the growing number of carjackings, Uber drivers may be unreasonably paranoid about their passengers – and this is another common cause of violence.

Sexual assaults have also become extremely common. Each year, there are countless confirmed cases of sexual assault carried out by Uber riders. Alone in a vehicle, women may be especially vulnerable to these attacks. Some assume that Uber carefully vets its drivers during the hiring process to avoid such incidents, but this simply isn’t the case.

Can I Sue After an Uber Assault? 

Yes, you can file a lawsuit after being assaulted by your Uber driver. Uber is liable for your injuries in this situation – including any psychological challenges you experience. This tech company may offer you a considerable settlement to avoid a trial. Alternatively, you can take Uber to court and share your story in public.

Contact Furman & Honick Law Today 

If you want to discuss Uber lawsuits, contact the Baltimore personal injury lawyers at Furman | Honick Law today. We understand that Uber riders face all kinds of threats, including crashes, assaults, and sexual harassment. You are fully within your rights to consider legal action if you have been harmed during any stage of your Uber trip. Reach out today, book a consultation, and get started with an effective action plan.

Sources:

cnn.com/2022/06/30/tech/uber-safety-report/index.html

abc7news.com/uber-sexual-assault-lawsuit-rideshare-lyft-drivers-settlement/14089128/