Brazilian court denies Uber driver compensation after drug transport incident

A labor judge in Porto Alegre, Brazil, has denied a request for R$ 30,000 in compensation by an Uber driver who was transporting a package containing drugs. The driver claimed that Uber failed to manage risks and provide adequate security screening, exposing him to criminal risk and emotional distress.

The judge, Patricia Dornelles Peressutti, ruled against the claim, noting that the driver was treated solely as a witness during police proceedings and was not the subject of any criminal investigation or accusation. The magistrate stated that the judiciary must not permit the development of an ‘industry of moral damages’ in such contexts.

Uber defended its position by stating it has no control over specific deliveries or police support, characterizing the driver as an independent entrepreneur. The company argued that any responsibility for the transport of illicit items lies with the driver.