Rideshare Sexual Assault
When using rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, passengers have a right to a safe journey free from the threat of sexual assault by drivers or other passengers. Unfortunately, the problem of rideshare sexual assault has grown so much that many cases have been consolidated for multidistrict litigation (MDL) in federal court.
If you are a victim of rideshare sexual assault, The National Injury Law Firm™ can help you seek justice, accountability, and compensation. We are committed to helping our clients experience THE NATIONAL POWER OF JUSTICE™. Our experienced attorneys can investigate your claim, identify all legal routes toward compensation, and fight vigorously to defend your rights.
Rideshare Sexual Assault Lawsuit Claim Eligibility
To pursue a claim against a rideshare company, you must show that it failed to protect you against sexual assault. Among other things, this may involve failure to conduct proper background checks and allowing drivers to keep working without investigating sexual assault allegations. Various actions by drivers or other passengers can constitute sexual assault, including:
- Non-consensual penetration
- Unwanted sexual touching or kissing
- Indecent exposure
- Coerced sexual activities
- Threats of sexual violence
- Sexual leering or suggestive comments
Your attorney must file your claim before the governing sexual assault statute of limitations, which varies from state to state. If you don’t file on time, the presiding judge will dismiss your claim. Our experienced attorneys can review your case and ensure it is filed before the deadline to preserve your right to pursue compensation.
Common Injuries In Rideshare Sexual Assault Cases
Compensable damages in an Uber or Lyft sexual assault depend on many factors, especially the severity of your physical and emotional injuries and the extent of their impact on your life and well-being. Potential injuries in sexual assault cases include:
- Bruises and lacerations
- Fractures and dislocations
- Genital injuries
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Pregnancy
- Internal injuries
- Head injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Substance abuse
- Self-harm
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
- Sleep disorders
- Eating disorders
Milestone Settlements and Verdicts in Uber and Lyft Sexual Assault Claims
In June 2022, Lyft settled with shareholders for $25 million over claims that the company concealed its history of safety issues, including sexual assault by drivers. In July 2024, the company reached another settlement with shareholders, agreeing to make it easier for passengers to report problems 24/7 to live agents and to raise awareness of its “Alert 911 Silently” feature.
Uber has also been implicated in sexual assault litigation. In re: Uber Technologies, Passenger Sexual Assault Litigation (MDL No. 3084) is a set of cases consolidated for multi-district litigation in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.
The plaintiffs are former passengers who were sexually assaulted or harassed by their Uber drivers. The case is ongoing, and you may be able to join. Key developments in this high-stakes MDL include:
- October 2023 – A panel of judges ordered MDL consolidation.
- January 2024 – A judge ruled that plaintiffs can file their claims directly rather than filing in another court and waiting for a transfer into the MDL.
- August 2024 – The number of consolidated cases climbed to 387.
Potential Compensation in Rideshare Sexual Assault Claims
It is difficult to predict and impossible to guarantee compensation amounts in lawsuits, especially without a close look at the facts of your case. The best way to find out how much your case may be worth is by consulting an experienced sexual assault attorney.
Cases involving minor injuries may result in compensation in the thousands of dollars. By contrast, cases involving rape, long recoveries, or severe emotional distress may result in much higher compensation, potentially ranging in the hundreds of thousands of dollars or higher. These numbers are merely estimates and should not be relied upon as guarantees.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the more common questions we hear from clients regarding rideshare sexual assault claims.
1. What Is the Deadline for Filing a Rideshare Sexual Assault Lawsuit?
The statute of limitations for filing a rideshare sexual assault claim varies by state. The victim’s age is also important. It is best to contact our knowledgeable and compassionate attorneys as soon as possible to determine the deadline for filing your claim. If you miss it, your case will most likely be dismissed in court.
2. What Evidence Do I Need to File a Rideshare Sexual Assault Lawsuit?
Generally speaking, you must prove that you were in the rideshare vehicle, another vehicle occupant’s misconduct rose to the level of sexual assault, and you suffered compensable damages. Important evidence may include data from your rideshare app (e.g., your ride history and route), police reports, communications with the rideshare company, witness testimony, medical records, psychological evaluations, and expert testimony.
3. How Many People Have Been Sexually Assaulted in Rideshares?
According to Uber’s last safety report, there were nearly 10,000 reported cases of sexual violence in its vehicles between 2017 and 2020. The number of cases consolidated in MDL No. 3084 against Uber is currently in the hundreds and may grow to thousands.
The numbers reported by Lyft are similarly distressing. Lyft’s most recent safety report notes nearly 7,000 allegations of sexual assault between 2017 and 2022, including 725 reports of non-consensual penetration.
4. If Worried About Their Safety or Privacy, Can Survivors Remain Anonymous When Filing a Sexual Assault Lawsuit?
Sexual assault cases can be extremely sensitive and traumatic for victims. Your lawyer can work to protect your identity and keep it out of public records when you file your sexual assault lawsuit.
5. Can a Person Who Was Assaulted by a Rideshare Driver in the Past File a Claim?
You may still be eligible to file a claim if the sexual assault statute of limitations in your state has not expired. Some states have also implemented “lookback windows” during which certain victims can file a claim even if the normal statute of limitations has passed.
6. What Damages Are Recoverable in a Rideshare Lawsuit?
Sexual assault is often one of the most traumatic experiences many victims ever go through. In many cases, no amount of money can make things right. However, compensation through a lawsuit can provide a measure of justice and accountability. Compensable damages may include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Mental health care costs
- Lost wages
- Lowered earning capacity
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Physical pain and suffering
- Psychological trauma
The National Injury Law Firm™ Is Here To Help Victims of Rideshare Sexual Assault
If you were sexually assaulted in a rideshare vehicle, The National Injury Law Firm™ can help you learn more about your legal rights and options. We are dedicated to EMPOWERING YOU FOR JUSTICE™. Our attorneys will work tirelessly to tell your story, protect your rights, and seek the justice you deserve. Contact us online to learn more in a free, confidential consultation.
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