New York City is one of the busiest rideshare markets in the world. Millions of residents, commuters, and visitors rely on services like Uber every day to get around our boroughs safely and conveniently. But a recent in-depth investigation published by The New York Times highlights serious concerns about rider safety that every New Yorker should understand before booking a ride.
What the Report Found
According to the New York Times investigation of internal Uber records and sealed court filings, Uber logged more than 400,000 reports of sexual assault or sexual misconduct on its U.S. platform from 2017 through 2022, a rate of about one report every eight minutes on average.
These figures are significantly higher than what the company previously disclosed in its public safety reports, which showed only around 12,500 serious reports over the same period. This gap has raised questions about how Uber tracks and responds to serious safety issues and whether riders have been given a full picture of the risks.
Why This Matters in NYC
New York has one of the highest volumes of rideshare use in the country, with Uber vehicles everywhere from Midtown Manhattan to the Bronx and Queens. Despite this popularity, data suggests the city leads the nation in customer concerns about rideshare service problems — from lost items to safety issues.
Even if serious physical harm during a ride remains statistically rare relative to the number of total trips taken, the potential for severe personal harm and emotional trauma is very real. Rides that start as a practical way to get home after work, a night out, or an early flight should never become a source of fear or danger.
What Companies Say Versus What Reports Show
Uber and other platforms publicly emphasize their safety technology like GPS tracking, emergency help buttons, and rider-rating systems. Uber also releases its own safety reports that describe how rare incidents are compared with the billions of rides given.
However, internal reviews cited in investigative journalism suggest the volume of reported serious incidents may be underrepresented in those public reports and that some safety features that might help prevent harm have been delayed or not fully implemented. Critics, including national advocacy groups, have argued these gaps weaken rider protections.
Tips for Safer Rideshare Use in NYC
Whether you’re heading home after work in Chelsea, catching a show near Times Square, or getting to a late night train in Brooklyn, here are practical safety steps to consider:
- Verify Your Ride Before You Enter
Check the license plate, vehicle make, model, and driver photo against what’s shown in the app before getting in. - Share Your Trip
Use features in the app to share live trip details with someone you trust so they can monitor your ride. Know How to Contact Help
Many rideshare apps include a 911 button or safety line; use it if you ever feel unsafe. - Record Key Details
Take screenshots of your ride confirmation and route; these can be crucial if you later need to report an incident or pursue legal action.
Your Rights After a Harmful Experience
If you or someone you care about has experienced serious physical harm or inappropriate conduct during a rideshare trip, you may have the right to pursue civil legal claims in addition to reporting the issue to law enforcement. In New York, victims can seek accountability and compensation when a company’s failure to protect riders contributes to harm.
A NYC personal injury attorney experienced with transportation cases can help you understand:
- How to preserve evidence (trip receipts, app records, screenshots)
- When and how to involve police or city authorities
- What legal options are available for compensation
- How current litigation and investigative findings could affect your claim
Final Thoughts
Rideshare apps have become a fixture of daily life in New York City, but recent reporting shows that safety challenges still exist and deserve serious public attention. Staying informed, using built-in safety tools, and understanding your legal rights can make a significant difference in protecting yourself and your loved ones when you ride.
If you’re concerned about rideshare safety or need help after a harmful experience, don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation and guidance on your next steps.