Award-winning lawyer Carly Sylvester looks at Uber sexual assault claims.
While ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt have revolutionised the way we travel, these platforms have also raised significant concerns regarding passenger safety, particularly in cases of sexual assault by drivers. Unlike traditional taxi services, companies like Uber and Bolt operate as technology platforms connecting drivers with passengers, which has implications for how they manage safety and accountability when incidents occur.
How Do Uber, Bolt, and Other Ride-Sharing Companies Operate?
Uber and Bolt use a similar model, classifying drivers as independent contractors rather than employees. This setup means that drivers use their own vehicles, arrange personal insurance, and are largely self-regulated. While these companies facilitate bookings and payments through an app, they historically have distanced themselves from taking responsibility for driver conduct and vehicle condition, asserting limited liability in their terms and conditions.
However, changes in the UK legal system have shifted this dynamic. The UK Supreme Court has ruled that Uber drivers should be classified as “workers” rather than self-employed, a ruling with potential implications for other ride-sharing companies. This change means that Uber—and potentially Bolt—now bears greater responsibility to ensure the safety and behaviour of their drivers, creating a legal pathway for passengers to hold these companies accountable in cases of misconduct.
Challenges for Victims of Sexual Assault in Ride-Sharing Vehicles
Victims of sexual assault in ride-sharing vehicles like Uber often face difficulties in reporting incidents and obtaining support. Uber and Bolt generally operate customer support through in-app help centres or online contact forms, making it challenging for passengers to receive immediate assistance or follow-up. While both companies have introduced app-based safety features, including GPS tracking and emergency assistance buttons, these measures may fall short in preventing or addressing incidents of assault.
For those affected, the companies’ liability clauses can also complicate matters. Ride-sharing platforms often limit their legal responsibility in their terms and conditions, attempting to place accountability on the individual driver. However, as legal rulings evolve, these companies may face increased pressure to take responsibility for incidents involving their drivers.
Making an Uber Sexual Assault Claim
If you are a victim of sexual assault during a ride-share journey with Uber or another provider, you have the right to pursue a claim for compensation for the physical and emotional impact on you. Legal precedent in the UK holds that, regardless of contractual terms, drivers owe a duty of care to their passengers. The Supreme Court ruling places an increased duty on companies like Uber to provide oversight, and this may extend to other platforms as well, opening up potential claims for liability against both the driver and the company.
Because ride-share assault claims involve complex legal issues, consulting specialist lawyers who are experienced in handling cases with companies like Uber and Bolt is essential.
For expert guidance on making an Uber sexual assault compensation claim on a No Win, No Fee basis, or a claim against Bolt or any other ride-share operator, contact our free legal helpline. Our specialist team is here to provide sympathetic support in helping you achieve justice.