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Uber and Lyft sexual assault lawsuits: where the cases stand
Thousands of passengers have sued Uber and Lyft alleging the companies did not do enough to protect riders from sexual assault and misconduct by drivers. Federal cases against each company are grouped in San Francisco, and trials began in 2025 and 2026.
By SettlementLift. Published · Updated .
If you need support now
The National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) offers free, confidential support at 800-656-4673 and through online chat. You can get medical care and support whether or not you report or take legal action.
RAINN: National Sexual Assault Hotline ↗What is alleged
Plaintiffs allege the companies’ background checks, safety features and responses to complaints were inadequate, and that the companies marketed rides as safe. The companies deny liability and point to their safety programs.
Uber cases
MDL 3084 is before Judge Charles R. Breyer in the Northern District of California, with 4,916 pending cases as of October 1, 2026. California state cases are coordinated separately in San Francisco. Juries have reached different results: a 2025 state trial ended in Uber’s favor, while 2026 federal bellwether trials resulted in verdicts against Uber.
JPML: Pending MDL dockets by actions pending (October 1, 2026) ↗Lyft cases
Federal Lyft cases were grouped in February 2026 as MDL 3171 before Judge Rita F. Lin, also in the Northern District of California, with 134 pending as of October 1, 2026. Many Lyft cases are also coordinated in California state court.
JPML: Pending MDL dockets by actions pending (October 1, 2026) ↗Records that matter
The trip receipt or ride history in the app, any report made to the company or police, medical records, and messages with the driver or company. A lawyer can also request records the company keeps.
Deadlines
Each state sets its own filing deadline, and the clock often starts when you knew or should have known about the injury and its possible cause. Joining an MDL does not pause your state’s deadline, so ask a lawyer promptly if you are considering a claim.
Talking to a lawyer
Mass tort lawyers usually work on contingency, meaning they are paid a percentage of any recovery. Ask how the fee is calculated, which costs you could owe, whether your case would be filed in the MDL or in state court, and who will handle it day to day. SettlementLift is not a law firm and does not take or refer these cases.
ABA: Questions to ask a lawyer ↗Frequently asked questions
Is there an Uber sexual assault settlement?
No global settlement had been announced as of October 19, 2026. Individual cases have gone to trial and some have settled.
Do I have to report to the police to file a lawsuit?
Not necessarily. A police report can be helpful evidence, but it is not always required. A lawyer can explain how it affects your case.