Dallas, TX - Uber Driver, Alejandro Contreras, Accused of Sexually Assaulting Female Passenger Near Sorority Row on Southern Methodist University Campus

University Student Sexually Assaulted By Uber Driver

According to WFAA, a female student was sexually assaulted by an Uber driver before being dropped off at her home on the 3100 block of Daniel Avenue, known as "sorority row" at Southern Methodist University in University Park, Dallas, Texas.

The 50-year-old driver, Alejandro Contreras,  was arrested by SMU police around 2:30 a.m. Friday, October 14, 2022. The arrest came moments after the female passenger reported that she was assaulted during a rideshare home that night. Allegedly the victim fell asleep during the trip and woke up to Contreras with his hands between her legs. The Uber driver then walked her to her door at the sorority home. She immediately called her brother, who initially ordered the Uber. Other SMU students say that Uber is the main mode of transportation for university students and are shocked to hear about the incident.

Justice for Victims Sexually Assaulted in a Rideshare

Attorney contributor Anjali Nigam has experience representing victims who were sexually assaulted by an Uber driver. As a sexual assault attorney in Texas, Anjali shared his knowledge regarding the legal options available for victims sexually assaulted by rideshare drivers, including when they can file a lawsuit for compensation.

"It's important for technology-based rideshare companies to protect their customers. If a sexual predator is allowed to drive a passenger to their destination, their customers are at risk of becoming a victim. Rideshare apps should do all they can to prevent known offenders from being employed in positions that will put others at risk." 

"Rideshare companies, like Uber and Lyft, have a legal responsibility to protect passengers from preventable dangers, such as sexual abuse. Background checks should be mandatory for all drivers, along with dashcams inside vehicles. In some cases, Uber and Lyft can be held accountable when their security process has been neglected. Cases involving negligence can often lead to compensation for victims of sexual assault during a rideshare. Victims can learn more about their legal options by speaking with an experienced sexual assault attorney."

Sources:

WFAA