Biotech CEO Sues Uber Following Violent Assault by Driver

The CEO of TC Biopharm, Bryan Kobel, has taken legal action against Uber after he was violently attacked by an illegal immigrant driver in downtown Charleston, South Carolina. This incident occurred in April and was recorded on camera, showing the driver assaulting Kobel and causing significant injuries.

The lawsuit, filed on Monday in Charleston County, states that the 45-year-old Kobel suffered a concussion during the altercation with Uliumdzhiev Vadim Nikolaevich, 42, who was later arrested and released on $10,000 bail for two counts of assault and battery.

Kobel’s attorneys note that he was subsequently held by Georgia’s Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) following the incident.

Kobel recounted to a news outlet that the driver seemed to have issues with his service dog. When Nikolaevich refused to accommodate the pet, Kobel attempted to cancel the ride. The confrontation escalated when Nikolaevich exited his vehicle, physically assaulted Kobel by grabbing him and headbutting him.

After the attack, Nikolaevich reportedly called 911 but returned to his vehicle shortly afterward. Witnesses on the call described the scene, with one female caller expressing shock at the situation. A male caller detailed Kobel’s injuries, stating he was bleeding severely and urged the dispatcher to send an ambulance.

Kobel was taken to Musc Health University Medical Center, where he received treatment for his injuries, including seven staples to his head. He remarked on how quickly he felt overwhelmed, recalling how he struggled to focus on a work call afterward due to his injuries.

Inevitably, the incident took its toll on Kobel. He stated that it felt surreal to leave the hospital only to find his Uber account suspended. Despite providing medical documentation and evidence of the attack, he felt that Uber unfairly treated him.

According to authorities, Nikolaevich possessed a forged driver’s license and is living in the U.S. illegally. Kobel’s lawyer expressed concerns about the lack of accountability and safety measures related to undocumented drivers using Uber’s platform.

The lawsuit claims Kobel has suffered physical pain, mental distress, and medical expenses as a result of the actions by Nikolaevich, who was working for Uber at the time. Moreover, they argue that Uber’s screening practices need serious improvement to prevent such incidents.

Kobel remarked on the reckless environment that Uber has fostered, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive oversight to protect riders. However, as of now, both the Department of Homeland Security and the Charleston police have not commented on the matter due to ongoing investigations.