Rideshare Sexual Assault Lawsuits: Inside the Survivors’ Fight for Justice
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft process millions of rides every year. While rideshare apps offer convenience to people who need regular transportation, some drivers victimize their passengers.
Unfortunately, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft don’t offer remediation for sexual assault victims. Your best chance of receiving justice as a survivor of such a horrific crime is hiring a seasoned mass tort lawyer to submit a claim on your behalf.
The physical, mental, and emotional damage of sexual assault is too great to ignore. Get in touch with our legal team today to submit your Uber sexual assault claim. We have served as a resource to numerous sexual assault survivors and remain ready, willing, and able to assist you in pursuing legal action via a civil lawsuit.
There are currently lawsuits pending both in federal court and state court against these two companies on behalf of plaintiffs who were sexually assaulted in a rideshare vehicle.
Uber Sexual Assault MDL Continues to Expand
As of spring of 2024, the multidistrict litigation (MDL) against Uber for sexual assault claims has grown to encompass a staggering 252 cases pending in federal court. This significant increase comes after 12 additional cases were added to the MDL in April alone.
Sexual Harassment and Assault in Rideshare Vehicles
The exact number of sexual assaults and harassment cases in Rideshare vehicles like Uber is difficult to determine due to lack of reporting, uninvestigated cases, and confidential reports.
However, Uber’s own safety data provides some insights:
- Over 13% of rides involve sexual harassment or sex crimes.
- Less than 1% of riders have been sexually assaulted due to the high volume of rides.
- 3,000 to 7,000 sexual assaults are reported annually to Uber.
Uber’s reported sexual assault data for 2017-2020 includes:
These figures only reflect cases reported to Uber and are likely a fraction of the actual incidents.
Defining Sexual Assault
Sexual assault refers to the perpetration of a sexual act against a non-consenting party. It is distinct from broader terms like “unwanted sexual contact” and emphasizes the severity of the violation. In cases involving minors, intoxicated individuals, or those who are asleep or mentally incapacitated, consent is implied to be lacking.
Examples of sexual assault include:
- Nonconsensual kissing of a non-sexual body part
- Groping over or under clothing
- Nonconsensual touching of genitals, breasts, or buttocks
- Non-consensual sexual penetration with digits or objects
- Rape or attempted rape
- Being forced, coerced, or pressured to perform sexual acts
Sexual Assault Leaves Survivors with Profound Physical and Psychological Scars
While sexual assault is often perceived as a violent act involving physical force or weapons, the reality is that most survivors do not sustain significant bodily harm. This misconception is only significant in how victims classify their own incident and can leave them feeling like they were not assaulted. Whether it was physically violent or involving bodily harm does not diminish the severity of the trauma victims endure. The psychological impact of sexual assault can be devastating, leaving deep emotional wounds that can persist for years or even a lifetime.
Potential Physical Consequences
- Tears, bruising, or trauma to the genitals, anus, or mouth
- Injuries to the face, including broken teeth
- Bruising on the wrists, inner thighs, or other areas
- Lacerations or burns on the body
- Unwanted pregnancy resulting from the assault
- Sexually transmitted diseases contracted during the assault
- Psychological Trauma for Uber Sexual Assault Victims
Regardless of the presence or absence of physical injuries, survivors of sexual assault often grapple with profound psychological trauma, including:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety or eating disorders
- Depression
- Substance abuse issues
- Suicidal ideation
The impact of sexual assault on a survivor’s life can vary greatly, and there is no universal way to process this type of trauma. It is not uncommon for survivors to minimize their experience or even blame themselves for the assault, further compounding their emotional distress.
Survivors with access to a strong support system and comprehensive mental and physical healthcare often have a better chance of recovery. However, the journey to healing is unique for each individual, and the scars left by sexual assault can be long-lasting and deeply ingrained.
That’s what makes the volume of sexual assault lawsuits coming toward Rideshare apps so unnerving as their one common denominator is that Uber and Lyft provided no impactful way of remaining safe while using their app or recourse if they were victimized by one of their drivers. This stance never shifted despite the innumerable rise of frequency in these allegations.
What To Do If Sexually Assaulted By Your Rideshare Driver
If you’ve been sexually assaulted by your rideshare driver, prioritize your immediate safety and well-being. First, get to a safe public location and seek medical care, even without visible injuries. Healthcare providers can offer treatment and help preserve evidence.
Consider getting a sexual assault forensic exam (rape kit) at the hospital to document evidence – this doesn’t require an immediate police report. Document everything possible, including the driver’s information, photos of injuries, and details about the incident.
Contact an experienced legal professional specializing in sexual assault for a free consultation to understand your legal options, whether pursuing criminal charges or a civil lawsuit. They can guide you through the process and protect your rights.
Types of Damages Available in an Uber Sexual Assault Lawsuit
Civil Claims vs Criminal Prosecution
Civil claims like personal injury lawsuits differ from criminal prosecution. They aim to reimburse the injured party for losses caused by the defendant’s actions, while criminal courts focus on punishing and deterring the behavior.
Damages in Uber Sexual Assault Lawsuits
Damages claimed in an Uber sexual assault lawsuit can include:
- Medical bills
- Mental anguish
- Lost wages
Rideshare Companies’ Indifference
Rideshare companies may treat sexual assault claims with indifference, ignoring claims backed by concrete evidence. 14 women sued Lyft for mishandling claims and failing to perform background checks on drivers.
Rideshare companies prioritize protecting themselves from scandal and lawsuits. Survivors cannot count on them to have their best interests in mind. The best way to hold them accountable is by filing a Rideshare lawsuit with reputable attorneys to hold these companies accountable for survivors.
How To Navigate Your Uber Sexual Assault Lawsuit
Seeking legal recourse after a sexual assault is a complex and emotionally charged journey. To build a strong case, it is crucial to gather compelling evidence that demonstrates the negligence or misconduct of the responsible party, such as a rideshare company.
Here are essential steps to consider when pursuing a sexual assault claim:
- Prioritize your well-being by seeking immediate medical attention and undergoing a forensic examination. This not only ensures proper care but also provides valuable documentation for your case.
- Report the incident to law enforcement authorities promptly. Provide detailed accounts, including any available information about the assailant, vehicle details, and the circumstances surrounding the assault.
- Notify the rideshare company about the incident, initiating a formal record of the event and your intent to pursue legal action.
- Capture and preserve evidence, such as screenshots of ride details, photographs of injuries, and any other relevant documentation.
- Consult with an experienced mass tort attorney who can guide you through the legal process, gather additional evidence, identify potential witnesses, and advocate for your rights.
- Remember, the path to justice can be arduous, but with the right support and determination, you can hold the responsible parties accountable and seek the justice you deserve.
The Role of a Mass Tort Attorney
In the aftermath of a traumatic sexual assault, survivors often find themselves navigating a complex legal landscape, filled with intricate procedures and daunting challenges. It is during these trying times that the expertise of a specialized sexual assault attorney becomes invaluable, serving as a guiding light and unwavering ally in the pursuit of justice.
Empowering Survivors Through Knowledge
A skilled sexual assault attorney understands that knowledge is power. They take the time to educate survivors on the legal process, demystifying the complexities and ensuring that their clients are well-informed and empowered throughout the journey. From explaining the various stages of the proceedings to anticipating potential obstacles, these attorneys provide clear and concise advice, enabling survivors to make informed decisions and actively participate in shaping their case.
Comprehensive Case Preparation
Meticulous preparation is the cornerstone of a strong legal case. Sexual assault attorneys excel in this area, meticulously gathering and organizing evidence, documenting every detail, and ensuring that the survivor’s account is accurately captured. This comprehensive approach not only strengthens the legal arguments but also instills confidence in survivors, knowing that their case is being presented in the most compelling manner possible.
Compassionate and Steadfast Support
Beyond their legal expertise, specialized sexual assault mass tort attorneys offer a compassionate and steadfast support system for survivors. They understand the emotional toll of the ordeal and provide a safe space for survivors to share their experiences without fear of judgment. This empathetic approach fosters trust and creates a strong attorney-client bond, allowing survivors to feel heard, validated, and supported throughout their journey towards justice.
Seeking Justice for Rideshare Sexual Assault Survivors
The experienced legal team at Meyer Wilson is dedicated to advocating for individuals who have endured the trauma of sexual assault while using rideshare services. We firmly believe that companies like Uber and Lyft have a responsibility to prioritize passenger safety through robust security measures and thorough background checks.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual violence by a rideshare driver, our compassionate attorneys are here to support you. We understand the sensitivity of these cases and offer a safe, confidential environment to discuss your legal options. Our goal is to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
With years of expertise in handling complex sexual assault claims, our lawyers have the resources and determination to take on even the largest corporations. We will stand by your side throughout the legal process, providing empathetic guidance and unwavering advocacy.
Don’t hesitate to take the first step towards healing and accountability. Contact us today via phone or through our online contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
