Uber has been ordered to pay $40 million to the parents of a 23-year-old woman, Emily Normandin-Parker, who tragically lost her life after being ejected from an Uber vehicle on a California freeway. This ruling comes from retired California judge Richard A. Stone, who determined that Uber was ‘vicariously liable’ for the negligence of its driver.

The incident occurred in August 2023 when Normandin-Parker and her friend, Luna Moore, hailed an Uber after a night out in Orange County. The driver pulled over on the 73 freeway after Normandin-Parker became ill in the car. During a dispute over a cleaning fee between Moore and the driver, Normandin-Parker exited the vehicle and wandered into oncoming traffic, where she was struck by a car.

Normandin-Parker's parents accused both the driver and Uber of negligence. Uber defended itself by claiming it is merely a technology company that connects riders with independent third-party drivers. However, the arbitrator rejected this argument, stating that Uber should be classified as a common carrier, which holds it accountable for the actions of its drivers.

In the arbitration documents, Judge Stone emphasized that the nature of the service offered by Uber does not change simply because it utilizes a digital platform instead of traditional street hails. He also noted that California’s Proposition 22, which classifies Uber and Lyft drivers as independent contractors, does not exempt the company from vicarious liability for the actions of its drivers.

In response to the ruling, Uber expressed its respect for the arbitration process but disagreed with the decision, asserting that it should not be held legally responsible for the events that transpired. A spokesperson for Uber, Gabriela Condarco-Quesada, extended condolences to the Normandin-Parker family, stating, “No family should have to suffer the loss of a child.”

The family revealed that Uber had previously proposed a settlement that included a confidentiality agreement, which they rejected. This agreement would have imposed a $10 million penalty on the family for discussing the accident and Uber’s involvement.

While this ruling is not binding and applies only to this specific case, it represents a significant challenge for Uber as it seeks to distance itself from the actions of its drivers and maintain its classification as an online marketplace for rides.