Can I sue Uber if the driver was an independent contractor?

Maybe. Uber says drivers are independent contractors, but many cases focus on Uber’s own actions, like background checks and safety rules.

How long do I have to file an Uber sexual assault lawsuit in California?

That depends on your situation. There are different deadlines, so talking with a lawyer soon is a smart move to protect your rights.

Do I need a criminal conviction before I can file a civil lawsuit?

No. A civil case and a criminal case are different. Survivors can seek compensation even if there are no criminal charges or if a conviction doesn’t happen.

What if I reported the assault to Uber but not the police?

You might still have options. Even if you didn’t report it to the police, other evidence like ride records, medical documents, and witness statements can still help your case.

Can Uber be held responsible for failing to screen drivers?

Possibly. If there’s proof that Uber ignored safety risks or skipped important background checks, it could show that they are liable.

How much does it cost to hire an Uber sexual assault attorney?

Many lawyers work on something called a contingency fee. It means you usually don’t have to pay them unless you win your case.

What qualifies as sexual assault in an Uber sexual assault lawsuit?

Any unwanted sexual contact qualifies. This can mean groping, non-consensual kissing, rape, attempted rape, or even sexual comments made while you were in the car. If a driver did something that made you feel violated, don’t assume it’s not serious enough. Many survivors underestimate what the law actually covers, so it’s always worth talking to an attorney.

Can I still file if I didn’t report the assault right away?

Absolutely. It’s common for survivors to wait before reporting, and that delay doesn’t disqualify your case. Courts understand how hard it can be to come forward. Even if you never went to the police, your ride receipt and Uber’s records can help prove what happened. The key is to act before the statute of limitations runs out.

How long do I have to file an Uber sexual assault lawsuit in California?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a civil claim in California. Sometimes, that window is longer, like if the survivor was a minor, or if the harm wasn’t discovered right away. Don’t try to guess your deadline. The best move is to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Can I sue Uber directly, or only the driver?

You can go after both. The lawsuit can hold Uber responsible for things like poor hiring and weak oversight, while also targeting the driver for their actions. Your attorney will sort out who’s legally responsible and build the strongest case possible.

What is the Uber sexual assault MDL, and do I have to join it?

MDL 3084 is a huge federal case in California that groups thousands of Uber assault lawsuits together. Joining the MDL means your case benefits from shared evidence and resources, but you still keep your own claim. Whether to join or go it alone is a decision to make with your attorney, based on what’s best for you.

Do I have to use my real name in an Uber driver assault lawsuit claim?

No. Courts regularly let survivors file as “Jane Doe” or another pseudonym to protect privacy. Your attorney can walk you through this process and help keep your identity confidential from start to finish.

What evidence do I need to support my Uber passenger assault claim?

Things like your ride receipt, the driver’s info from the app, any screenshots or messages, medical or therapy records, and your own account all help. If you reported the assault to Uber or the police, those records matter too. Even if you don’t have much documentation, an attorney can request records from Uber as part of the case.

What if Uber’s terms of service say I can’t sue?

Uber does include arbitration clauses that try to keep cases out of court. But lately, courts have pushed back on these rules, especially in sexual assault cases. In March 2025, a federal appeals court allowed more than 1,600 cases to move forward despite Uber’s arbitration argument. An experienced attorney will know how to navigate this and fight for your right to sue.

Uber Sexual Assault Archives - Blair & Ramirez LLP

The Ride Home Changed Everything. Can You Sue Uber for Sexual Assault in California?

Sue Uber for sexual assault in California — victim consulting an attorney

We all love using Uber, right? You finish eating with friends, head home from a concert, or simply don’t feel like driving—and just like that, you tap a button and watch the little car icon cruise towards you. You trust it will get you home safe. But what happens when that trust breaks? What if a ride that should take ... Read More

You Trusted Uber. Your Driver Violated That Trust. Here’s How to File an Uber Sexual Assault Lawsuit.

You put your trust in Uber. You checked the license plate, made sure the driver’s name matched, and took every precaution. Yet, something went terribly wrong during your ride. Now you’re left asking if there’s any way to hold a giant like Uber accountable. The answer is yes. Thousands of riders have already taken action and filed an Uber sexual assault ... Read More