Uber has transformed how people move around, especially in high-traffic states like New Jersey. But as more people rely on ride-sharing apps, safety concerns for Uber passengers in New Jersey have taken center stage—particularly cases involving assault, driver misconduct, and unsafe conditions. If you’ve been affected, knowing your rights and what legal options exist can help protect your future.
The Reality: Are Uber Passengers in New Jersey Truly Safe?
Recent reports have highlighted an alarming rise in safety issues facing Uber passengers in New Jersey. Thousands have come forward with accounts of sexual assault or inappropriate conduct by drivers. Unfortunately, many more incidents go unreported, especially when there’s no dashcam footage to prove misconduct.
While some drivers install cameras voluntarily, not every ride is recorded. And even when there is footage, it doesn’t always prevent spur-of-the-moment misconduct. Beyond individual behavior, there’s a larger issue: Uber has a duty not just to control drivers’ actions—but to ensure safe, secure rides for every passenger.
Inadequate Driver Screening
To keep up with demand, Uber has scaled back its driver screening process. Most new drivers have no professional transport background, and the onboarding process can take as little as two weeks. They’re asked to watch safety videos—but there’s no system to verify comprehension or monitor behavior after onboarding.
This exposes Uber passengers in New Jersey to risks stemming from poor hiring practices. If Uber hires someone with a history of misconduct or red flags (like prior assault charges or erratic behavior), the company can be held liable under “negligent hiring” claims. Unfortunately, Uber’s short-term business model often puts quantity over quality when it comes to driver recruitment.
Driver Misconduct: Assault and Emotional Harm
Some of the most disturbing cases involve driver-on-passenger assault—both physical and non-physical. Examples include:
- Verbal sexual harassment
- False imprisonment (refusing to let the passenger exit)
- Stalking or lingering at drop-off points
- Inappropriate stares or comments
Even if there’s no physical contact, Uber passengers in New Jersey can suffer emotional trauma. Victims may pursue claims under intentional infliction of emotional distress (IIED) if they can prove the conduct was extreme and caused severe emotional harm.
When a passenger experiences harmful or offensive contact—such as unwanted touching or physical assault—they may be entitled to substantial noneconomic damages, even without visible injuries.
What About Passenger-on-Passenger Assault?
Assault doesn’t always come from the driver. In crowded urban areas like Jersey City or Newark, it’s not uncommon for passengers to share rides. If another passenger harasses or attacks you, Uber may still be liable if the driver failed to intervene or allowed unsafe conditions.
Drivers are expected to maintain control of the vehicle environment. They must separate hostile passengers and prevent altercations. If they don’t, Uber passengers in New Jersey may pursue claims under negligent supervision.
Unsafe Pick-Up and Drop-Off Practices
Uber’s duty of care starts when a driver approaches your pick-up location and ends when you safely exit the vehicle. However, some drivers pull up in unsafe locations—dark corners, uneven pavement, or busy intersections—without regard for passenger mobility or visibility.
A fall or injury due to an unsafe drop-off location may be grounds for a personal injury claim. Uber passengers in New Jersey deserve safe entry and exit options, and drivers must be trained to avoid exposing riders to risk during pickups and drop-offs.
What to Do If You’re Harmed as an Uber Passenger
If you’ve experienced harm during an Uber ride—whether emotional, physical, or both—take the following steps:
- Report the Incident Immediately to Uber and local law enforcement.
- Seek Medical Attention for any physical injuries or emotional distress.
- Document the Event including photos, time stamps, messages, and witness info.
- Avoid Settling Too Quickly without legal counsel.
- Speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer who understands rideshare laws in New Jersey.
Contact a Rideshare Injury Lawyer Who Fights for Uber Passengers in New Jersey
Uber passengers in New Jersey shouldn’t have to worry about being mistreated or injured while trying to get from point A to B. If you or a loved one was harmed during a ride, don’t let Uber or its insurers brush off your experience.
At CourtLaw NJ Personal Injury Lawyers, we fight for Uber passengers in New Jersey who have experienced misconduct, assault, or injury during their ride. With offices in Perth Amboy, Jersey City, New Brunswick, Roselle, and East Orange, we’re ready to represent you statewide.
Call 732-442-5900 today for a free consultation, or fill out our contact form to get started. You deserve accountability—and we’re here to make sure you get it.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice, please contact our office directly.
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a rideshare accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing.
Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled injury attorneys at CourtLaw NJ Personal Injury Lawyers represent clients injured in accidents in Perth Amboy, Jersey City, New Brunswick, Roselle, East Orange, and throughout New Jersey. Call 732-442-5900 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 163 Market Street, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 as well as offices in Jersey City, New Brunswick, Roselle, and East Orange.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
