Who was Emily Normandin-Parker? Uber to pay $40 million to family of UCLA grad killed after driver left her on freeway

Uber has been ordered to pay $40 million to the family of Emily Normandin-Parker, a 23-year-old woman who was fatally struck on a California highway. The incident occurred on August 12, 2023, after the rideshare company's driver allegedly pulled over and forced the intoxicated women, including Normandin-Parker, out of the car. Judge Richard Stone ruled in favor of the family after a five-day arbitration process.

Emily had initially booked an Uber for herself and a friend, but when her friend became sick and vomited in the car, they were left stranded on the highway. Normandin-Parker, trusting Uber to get her home safely, followed the driver's instructions to exit the vehicle. However, she was struck and killed by another vehicle.

The driver, Vu Tran, did not call for help for the women after leaving them on the highway. Instead, he allegedly demanded that Uber charge Normandin-Parker a cleaning fee. Judge Stone criticized Tran for prioritizing his car over his passengers.

The family's lawyers argue that Uber was legally responsible for the incident, as the driver was an employee. Uber, however, maintains that the driver was an independent contractor and is not liable for his actions. The company has pledged to strengthen its safety measures, including providing drivers with guidance on avoiding unsafe drop-off locations.