Uber Trial in Arizona Tests Its Safety Record and Legal Responsibility

Uber Technologies is set to face its first federal trial in the United States over allegations that a passenger was sexually assaulted by a driver booked through its app. The case will be heard in a court in Phoenix, Arizona.

The lawsuit was filed by Jaylynn Dean, who claims she was assaulted by an Uber driver in 2023 after booking a ride in Arizona. She alleges the company failed to take adequate steps to protect riders despite being aware of repeated sexual assault complaints involving drivers.

The case is the first to go to trial among more than three thousand similar lawsuits pending against Uber in federal court. The outcome could influence how the remaining cases are resolved and may have financial and regulatory consequences for the company.

Uber has denied liability, arguing that its drivers are independent contractors and that it cannot be held responsible for criminal acts committed by individuals using its platform. The company says it has strengthened safety measures and continues to invest in technology to protect users.