A lawsuit has been filed against a major ridesharing company, alleging severe negligence and misconduct that led to the sexual assault of a passenger. The complaint was lodged by Alexandria Crump in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, on December 6, 2024, targeting Uber Technologies, Inc., among other unnamed defendants.
The case centers around allegations that Uber failed to ensure the safety of its passengers through inadequate background checks and safety measures for its drivers. According to the complaint, Crump was sexually assaulted by an Uber driver during a ride she booked using the company's app on June 6, 2023. The driver allegedly harassed her verbally and physically, leading her to call emergency services and exit the vehicle prematurely out of fear for her safety. Crump's legal team argues that Uber's lax hiring practices and insufficient monitoring of drivers contributed significantly to this incident.
The complaint outlines multiple causes of action against Uber, including strict product liability for design defects in their app, negligent hiring practices, failure to warn passengers about potential risks, and vicarious liability for the actions of their drivers. The plaintiff accuses Uber of intentionally misrepresenting itself as a safe transportation option while failing to implement adequate safety protocols or respond effectively to reports of sexual misconduct by its drivers.
Crump seeks compensatory damages for pain and suffering caused by the incident, along with punitive damages intended to penalize Uber for its alleged negligence and misrepresentation. Her legal team is also demanding systemic changes within Uber's operations to prevent future incidents.
Representing Alexandria Crump are attorneys Mark Potter, Sarah Anastasi, and Tehniat Zaman from Potter Handy LLP. The case is being overseen by Judge Sahar Enayati under Case No. CGC-24-620409.