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Santa Barbara Uber Driver Sexual Assault Attorneys

Are You in Need of a Santa Barbara Uber Driver Sexual Assault Attorney?

If you were sexually assaulted during a rideshare trip in Santa Barbara, you have legal options. Survivors of rideshare-related assaults face immense physical and emotional trauma. You have the right to pursue justice.

At NordstrandBlack PC, we stand with survivors. We understand the sensitive nature of sexual assault cases, and we provide compassionate, confidential, and determined legal representation. Our goal is to help you regain control of your life and recover the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Us Over Other Uber Driver Sexual Assault Lawyers in Santa Barbara?

Attorneys Renée Nordstrand-Black and Doug Black are here to listen to your story, provide emotional support, and advocate for you every step of the way. Here’s why people across the Santa Barbara area have come to trust our firm:

Over 40 years of experience representing victims of serious personal injury and misconduct. Bringing decades of insight to every case we take on.
Trusted by clients and respected by peers throughout Santa Barbara and California. Built on a reputation for integrity and results.
Millions recovered in compensation for injured clients and survivors of negligence. Reflecting our relentless pursuit of justice.
Recipient of the Deborah Talmage Attorney of the Year Award. Recognized for outstanding commitment and achievement.
10.0 Superb Avvo rating and "Premium" rating from Lawyer.com. Validated by professional standards and client feedback.
Focused, individualized attention from attorneys who handle your case personally. You work directly with the team advocating for you.
Trauma-sensitive legal representation that prioritizes your safety, privacy, and dignity. With a compassionate approach tailored to your experience.

We Stand With Survivors

If you suffered rideshare sexual assault, call (805) 962-2022 to speak with a trusted Santa Barbara personal injury lawyer who will protect your rights and help you pursue justice.

Do You Have a Legitimate Case?

Rideshare companies like Uber have a legal duty to screen their drivers and act on known safety risks. If Uber failed to conduct adequate background checks, respond to complaints, or implement basic safety measures, they may be liable for negligence.

Even if the assault was committed by a single individual, Uber may still share legal responsibility if the company failed to adequately protect you.

You may have a valid legal claim if you were sexually assaulted by:

An Uber driver during or after a ride
A rideshare driver while waiting for pickup or drop-off
Another passenger in a shared Uber, when the company failed to ensure your safety
A driver who was previously reported but allowed to remain on the platform

What’s the Legal Process for an Uber Sexual Assault Victim Case?

While every case is unique, most follow a general path:

Confidential Consultation: You meet with our legal team in a private, supportive setting to discuss your experience and options. This conversation is completely confidential and designed to ensure you feel heard, safe, and informed before moving forward.
Investigation: We gather evidence, which may include rideshare records, prior complaints against the driver, incident reports, security footage, medical records, and communication logs. We may also consult experts to support your claim and establish a timeline of events.
Identifying Liability: We determine whether Uber, the driver, or both may be held accountable. This step involves analyzing Uber’s hiring practices, safety protocols, and prior conduct.
Filing the Claim: We may file a civil lawsuit to pursue damages. If appropriate, we also share findings with law enforcement or regulatory agencies.
Negotiation and Resolution: We work to secure full compensation, through settlement or trial, while prioritizing your privacy, dignity, and long-term well-being.

Who Are the Victims of Uber Sexual Assault?

Victims of Uber-related sexual assault come from all walks of life, including:

Women, who make up the vast majority of reported survivors, are often targeted during solo rides or late-night travel.
Minors and teenagers using rideshare to travel alone may not fully understand the risks or how to respond during or following an attack.
People with disabilities or medical conditions that limit their ability to resist or escape, making them especially vulnerable to harm.
Intoxicated passengers who are especially vulnerable and may be unable to clearly recall or report the incident.
Rideshare drivers themselves, who may be assaulted by passengers and often face barriers to reporting the incident or receiving support.

No one deserves to be assaulted, and no survivor should be silenced. At NordstrandBlack PC, we help give survivors a legal voice, one that demands accountability and seeks real change. We are here to take action on your behalf.

What Is Rideshare Company Negligence?

When Uber or other rideshare companies cuts corners on safety, they can be held legally accountable. Rideshare company negligence occurs when the company fails to take reasonable precautions to protect passengers from foreseeable harm. Uber may be liable in cases where they:

Failed to conduct adequate background checks, including overlooking criminal records or red flags during hiring.
Ignored or inadequately addressed prior complaints about sexual misconduct, showing a pattern of negligence or indifference.
Lacked in-car safety measures like cameras or emergency alert systems. Missing simple tools that could deter or document abuse.
Allowed repeat offenders to continue driving after allegations. Prioritizing profit over passenger protection.

Negligence may also include failing to warn users of known risks or not deactivating drivers who violate safety standards. When a company puts its image or business model ahead of rider safety, it may be held responsible for the harm that results.

Holding Uber Accountable for Sexual Assault

In many cases, survivors do not realize that Uber’s own policies or failures contributed to the conditions that allowed the assault to occur. That’s where a qualified attorney can step in to uncover the full story. A legal claim is not just about what happened during the ride; it is about identifying systemic safety failures that put passengers at risk.

Survivors may file lawsuits against a rideshare company for:

Negligent hiring or retention: allowing individuals with red flags or prior complaints to drive for the platform.
Negligent supervision or training: failing to provide drivers with clear conduct guidelines or consequences for misconduct.
Failure to warn or protect users: not informing riders of past incidents or failing to implement effective safety measures.
Misrepresentation of safety protocols: advertising safety features or vetting procedures that do not match the reality of their operations.

These claims help expose deeper patterns and push for meaningful change.

You Do Not Have to Face This Alone

Call (805) 962-2022 to speak with a Santa Barbara sexual assault attorney today.

How a Lawyer Can Help

We are here to support you at every step with care, clarity, and a commitment to your well-being. At NordstrandBlack PC, we can:

Help you understand your rights and options in a safe, confidential setting, ensuring you feel empowered, informed, and respected throughout the process.
Collect evidence that supports your claim, including rideshare data, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony when needed.
Work to hold all responsible parties accountable, including the driver and Uber by uncovering safety failures or patterns of negligence.
Pursue full compensation for the harm you have endured, including medical care, therapy costs, emotional distress, and other related losses.

What Type of Damages Are Available for Victims?

As a survivor of Uber-related sexual assault, you may be entitled to significant compensation through a civil claim. These cases are about more than financial recovery, they are about recognizing the full impact of what you have experienced and demanding accountability. Compensation may include:

Medical expenses for physical injuries, including emergency care, follow-up treatments, and long-term health needs.
Mental health treatment for PTSD, anxiety, or depression, covering therapy, medication, and counseling.
Pain and suffering, acknowledging the profound physical and emotional impact of the assault.
Emotional distress and trauma, accounting for the long-term psychological toll.
Lost income or future earnings if the assault impacted your ability to work, especially if ongoing treatment or trauma interferes with your career.
Punitive damages to hold Uber accountable for negligence or misconduct when their actions (or inaction) showed reckless disregard for your safety.

Every case is different. We take the time to understand how this trauma has affected your daily life, your relationships, and your future, so we can pursue compensation that truly reflects your losses.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

I would recommend them to anyone- Meryl Lavine (5-Star Google Review)

NordstrandBlack represented me in a slip-and-fall case out of state. They were able to enlist a firm in Kansas to co-represent me, and got a generous settlement. It took several years, but they persisted and continued enthusiastically with professionalism. I would recommend them to anyone seeking fair and thorough representation. They were always available for questions and support.

Amazing attorneys- Gabriela Madrigal (5-Star Google Review)

Amazing attorneys. They really care for the client's well-being and for them to get what they deserve. I got to know Ms. Nordstrand when I was younger. She helped my father with a case; she made sure he was well taken care of. Now, years down, I hired her services because of an accident I had. I'm sure and know I'm in good hands. The best in SB.

Other Local Cities We Serve Throughout California

Speak With a Trusted Santa Barbara Uber Assault Attorney Today

At NordstrandBlack PC, we know how painful it is to experience a betrayal of trust in a place you thought was safe. We are here to help you take legal action without judgment, pressure, or exposure.

Call (805) 962-2022 to schedule a free consultation.

We charge no fees unless we win your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I was assaulted by an Uber driver or passenger?

Seek medical attention, call the police, and document everything. Then contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.

Can I sue Uber for an assault that happened during a ride?

Possibly. While Uber often claims its drivers are independent contractors, you may still be able to bring a claim depending on the facts and available insurance coverage.

Is Uber responsible for screening drivers with violent histories?

Yes. Uber has a duty to take reasonable precautions to ensure passenger safety, including conducting proper background checks. If they fail to do so, they may share liability.

What compensation can I pursue in an Uber assault case?

You may be eligible for damages related to medical care, therapy, loss of income, and emotional distress, depending on the severity and impact of the incident.

Could I still have a case, even if the driver was not convicted?

Yes. Civil claims have a different burden of proof than criminal cases, meaning you can still file a lawsuit even if no criminal conviction occurs.

Does Uber’s insurance cover assault cases?

Uber carries a $1 million liability policy, but coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time. A skilled attorney can help identify all potential sources of compensation.

What if I was assaulted by another passenger in an Uber ride?

Uber still may bear some responsibility, especially if the driver failed to take action or if Uber ignored previous warnings about the passenger.

How does NordstrandBlack PC approach Uber assault cases?

We prioritize your privacy and dignity with trauma-informed representation and fight for full accountability from all negligent parties.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

It does not cost anything to hire our firm because we take cases on a contingency fee basis. You will not owe us any money unless we win your case.

Meet Our Attorneys

Renée J. Nordstrand-Black

Renée J. Nordstrand-Black is a respected personal injury lawyer in Santa Barbara and the founding attorney of NordstrandBlack PC. With over 30 years of legal experience, she has built her career on a powerful combination of legal skill, personal commitment, and unwavering advocacy for individuals and families harmed by negligence and corporate misconduct.

Renée represents clients in a wide range of serious injury cases, including auto accidents and wrongful death claims. Known for her thorough preparation and compassionate representation, she has successfully recovered millions of dollars for clients facing life-altering losses.

Renée’s approach is deeply personal; she cares about her clients and gives them her full attention and care. She ensures her clients are heard, informed, and protected at every stage of the legal process. Whether negotiating a fair settlement or litigating in court, she is a tireless advocate for justice.

Doug Black

Doug Black is a dedicated personal injury attorney and partner at NordstrandBlack PC, where he specializes in helping individuals and families recover after serious accidents, catastrophic injuries, and insurance disputes. Known for his clear communication, strategic thinking, and client-first approach, Doug plays a key role in guiding complex cases to successful outcomes.

Doug handles a wide range of personal injury and civil litigation matters, including auto accidents, construction injuries, premises liability, mudslide and wildfire damage claims, and denied insurance coverage cases. He is particularly skilled in evaluating legal liability in challenging circumstances and building strong, evidence-based claims that stand up to scrutiny.

Doug partners closely with founding attorney Renée J. Nordstrand-Black to provide thorough, personalized legal representation. Together, they lead a firm that prioritizes integrity, responsiveness, and results.