If you’re an avid user of social media, chances are good that you’ve seen the video of a man violently attacking an Uber driver last Friday. In the video, which quickly went viral, you can clearly see a man named Benjamin G. attack the driver, hitting him multiple times before grabbing his hair and attempting to slam his head into the dash and steering wheel. He did not stop until the driver was able to pepper spray him, at which point the assailant fled. The attack was shocking, violent, and seemingly unprovoked.
The Uber driver has since filed a civil suit against Benjamin, seeking unspecified compensation for the emotional distress and injuries the attack caused. In this blog, we’ll explore whether or not the driver has a legitimate case against the passenger.
Are the Driver’s Damages Recoverable?
Although the driver did not suffer any serious or long-term phsyical injuries, the incident took place in California, which is one of just a few states that does not require physical symptoms to prove that emotional harm was inflicted. When combined with the video of the incident, this fact alone definitely gives some validity to the driver’s claim.
However, physical symptoms don’t always need to be serious injuries when the claim is filed for emotional distress. Symptoms such as loss of appetite, insomnia, and anxiety could all potential be considered physical symptoms of the attack. It seems that his personal injury lawyer is well aware of this fact, as he has stated publicly that “This is basically a nightmare for him. He’s having a very, very tough time sleeping…”
A Case Still in Progress
Although this civil suit is the latest development in this rather odd case, the assailant also faces substantial misdemeanor charges of assault, battery, and several other related charges. In the wake of the video going viral, he has been fired from his position as a Taco Bell marketing executive.
Whether your injuries were the result of a physical attack, car accident, or slip and fall injury, you may face substantial emotional trauma for months or years after the incident. When you choose our West Palm Beach personal injury lawyers to represent you in your claim, we can help you seek compensation for not only your physical injuries, but for the emotional distress you’ve suffered as well.
Our firm can help you pursue compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of income, and more.