Uber Settles CA Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Today Reuters reported that Uber, the international “ride-hailing” service that connects drivers with passengers via a mobile app, reached a settlement with the family of a child who was killed when she was struck by an on-duty Uber driver in 2013.  The tragic story of the six-year-old victim, Sofia Liu, has garnered national attention and raised questions about Uber’s dangerously lax driver screening process.  Details of the settlement remain confidential.

Uber Accidents

We have previously discussed the dangers associated with Uber.  While traffic accidents are always a possibility, paying passengers—whether riding in a bus, train, plane, taxi, or Uber-authorized vehicle—have a right to be reasonably safe from harm.  That is why there are competent authorities in place to regulate most vehicles open for public transportation purposes, i.e. the aforementioned buses, trains, planes, or taxis.

Unlike these other carriers, Uber operates without oversight, and does very little to self-regulate and ensure passenger safety.  Drivers with dangerous propensities, poor records, and questionable backgrounds may be approved to drive you or your loved ones around.  When Uber’s careless screening process puts passengers and other motorists at risk, serious personal injury and wrongful death can occur.

Dangerous Uber Drivers

Motor vehicle accidents are not the only lawsuits Uber is facing.  Just last month, the company was sued after one of its drivers was convicted of assaulting a thirteen-year-old girl.  Another driver stands accused of rape, with a civil lawsuit against Uber a possibility.

In cases like these, it is impossible to excuse Uber’s negligence in allowing dangerous drivers to use its service to victimize others.  Every day, employers across the country run extensive background checks and take reasonable measures to ensure that employees are trustworthy, honest, and law-abiding.  Uber owes its passengers that same duty to ensure their safety, but it appears that it may have disregarded their duty in at least some cases.

Ohio Uber Lawyer

If you or a loved one were injured in an Uber accident or injured by an Uber driver, you need an Ohio Uber lawyer to help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.  Contact Lowe Scott Fisher Co., LPA today for a free telephone consultation.