Since arriving in Niagara region almost four years ago, Uber Canada is currently facing a lawsuit after a 21-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted by one of the ride-sharing company’s drivers in Toronto. Uber senior communications associate Josh McConnell says in an email that the company cannot comment on the ongoing lawsuit but has previously provided a statement about the incident. “What has been described is horrible and has no place anywhere. As soon as we learned of this report, we immediately removed the individual’s access to the app and revoked his licence from the city,” the statement says. “We are fully cooperating with law enforcement and will continue to support their investigation.” Some Niagara residents who use Uber say people should exercise caution when using this and similar services. “It has become scary for me when using Uber,” says Niagara College student Tabitha Chol. “I fell asleep at one time, but I didn’t know if I will be safe. You’re basically alone and you can’t know what will happen.”However, another Uberuser and Niagara Falls resident, Neilani Dela Cruz, says she thinks using Uber is still safer compared to other means of transportation. “I don’t have any bad experience on Uber rides here in Niagara region. So far everything is good and safe,” says Dela Cruz. “It’s a matter of always being ready… make sure you’re confident enough to be in that situation.” Niagara region Uber driver Ahmed Mohamed says if the Toronto incident is true, the accused’s actions do not represent the company. He says: “That is really shameful. Because that girl (can be like) your daughter or your sister. You have to respect her and you have to be keen to drop her (at her destination).” “I will drop my passenger on the street and I will look till she enters the door,” Mohamed continues. “This is the policy of Uber – respect the rider.” McConell says in an email that safety is a top priority for Uber, which Mohamed agrees to. Mohamed says that there are also ways for drivers to call for help, and that he feels just as secure as any Uber rider. Niagara News was unable to collect statistics on Uber-related reports from Niagara Regional Police Service due to privacy laws that prevent the agency from releasing reports about a specific person or business. “Releasing information could jeopardize the reputation of persons/ business that have not been charged,” says Const. Phil Gavin, NRPS Media Relations officer, in an email. Niagara News was also unable to obtain statistics from Uber about the number of drivers and average number of riders a day in Niagara region. The company does not wish to disclose such statistics for competitive reasons, says McConnell.
