Rideshare Sexual Assault

Rideshare Sexual Assault Lawyers — Uber & Lyft Passenger Safety Claims

Sexual assaults and abuse by rideshare drivers are a documented epidemic. Uber and Lyft knew of thousands of reported assaults but failed to implement adequate safety measures. Trial Lawyers United represents survivors of sexual assault, rape, and abuse committed by Uber and Lyft drivers. We provide trauma-informed advocacy and protect your confidentiality throughout the legal process.

Uber was recently found liable in the first national MDL trial for sexual assault.

The Scope of Rideshare Sexual Assault

Internal company data and victim reports document a pattern of sexual violence in rideshare platforms:

• Uber Safety Reports (2019–2022): Uber publicly reported thousands of sexual assaults including rape, attempted rape, sexual touching, and sexual harassment in trips.
• Systematic risk: Sexual assault complaints far outnumber other serious incidents, indicating a pattern rather than isolated events.
• Underreporting: Many victims do not report due to trauma, fear, shame, or distrust of company reporting mechanisms. Actual incidents likely exceed reported figures substantially.
• Corporate knowledge: Both Uber and Lyft have internal data documenting the frequency and nature of sexual assaults by drivers.

Corporate Negligence: Failures Enabling Sexual Assault

We allege that Uber and Lyft failed passengers through:

• Weak background checks: Reliance on inadequate criminal background screening; hiring drivers with histories of violence or sexual misconduct.
• Poor response systems: When passengers reported sexual assault, companies were slow to remove drivers from the platform or failed to remove them at all.
• Suppressed safety data: Companies collected data on sexual assaults but did not share it with passengers or prospective users, limiting informed decision-making.
• Inadequate driver training: Minimal or no training on passenger safety, professional boundaries, or recognition of vulnerable passengers.
• Lack of safety features: Deficient or absent panic buttons, emergency alert systems, ride-sharing options with passengers who know the driver.
• Algorithmic matching failures: No protocols to prevent assignment of drivers with assault histories to particular passengers.
• Deceptive marketing: Advertising platforms as safe when companies knew of documented assault risks.

Types of Sexual Assault Claims Against Rideshare Companies

Negligence claims against rideshare companies are grounded in:

• Negligent hiring: Failing to adequately investigate driver background; hiring drivers known to pose safety risks.
• Negligent supervision: Failing to monitor driver conduct; failing to remove drivers reported for sexual misconduct.
• Negligent retention: Continuing to employ or contract with drivers with known history of violence or inappropriate conduct toward passengers.
• Failure to warn: Failing to inform passengers of documented sexual assault risks or of specific drivers with assault complaints.
• Misrepresentation of safety: Marketing platforms as safe or implementing safety measures that were inadequate or inactive.

Injuries Suffered by Sexual Assault Survivors

Sexual assault causes severe, often long-lasting psychological and physical injury:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Intrusive memories, hyperarousal, avoidance, negative mood and cognition.
• Acute stress disorder: Immediate post-assault anxiety and fear response.
• Depression and anxiety: Major depressive episodes, generalized anxiety, panic disorder.
• Sleep disruption: Nightmares, insomnia, sleep apnea exacerbation.
• Physical injuries: Bruises, lacerations, sexual injury, STI transmission, pregnancy.
• Sexual dysfunction: Impaired desire, arousal, orgasm; pain with sexual activity.
• Substance use: Self-medication with alcohol or drugs.
• Economic disruption: Lost income due to inability to work; therapy and medical costs.

Trial Lawyers United’s Trauma-Informed Approach

We understand that survivors may be reluctant to discuss their assault and may fear re-traumatization. Our approach:

• Confidentiality: Your identity is protected throughout litigation; we pursue confidential settlement agreements when possible.
• Anonymity protections: We use Jane Doe designations in public filings when available under local court rules.
• Victim services coordination: We connect you with rape crisis centers, counseling services, and support groups.
• Compassionate intake: Our lawyers and staff are trained in trauma-informed interviewing; we never pressure or rush your disclosure.
• Minimal litigation burden: We handle document requests and expert communications; you are not deposed unless absolutely necessary.

Both Individual and Corporate Claims

We pursue claims against:

• The driver: Criminal prosecution is separate from civil claims; we can sue the individual driver in civil court for sexual assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
• The rideshare company: For negligent hiring, supervision, retention, failure to warn, and deceptive practices.

Often, the driver lacks assets or insurance. The company, by contrast, has substantial resources and liability insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remain anonymous in a rideshare sexual assault claim?

We strongly advocate for confidentiality and anonymity. In many federal and state courts, we can file your case using a fictitious name (John/Jane Doe) with the understanding that you will be identified in sealed documents and to the defendant’s counsel under confidentiality agreements. We work closely with the court to protect your privacy throughout the case.

Can I sue the driver and the company separately?

Yes. The driver is personally liable for battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The company is liable for negligent hiring, supervision, retention, and other corporate negligence claims. We pursue both in a single action, allocating fault appropriately.

Do I need to have a criminal conviction against the driver to sue civilly?

No. Criminal conviction and civil liability use different standards of proof. The civil standard (preponderance of the evidence — more likely than not) is much lower than the criminal standard (beyond a reasonable doubt). Many civil sexual assault cases proceed without a criminal conviction. We evaluate both avenues independently.

What does confidentiality protection really mean?

Confidential settlements typically include: (1) a provision that you do not discuss the case or the settlement amount publicly; (2) a nondisclosure agreement; and (3) often a non-disparagement clause. The company also agrees to confidentiality. These protections allow survivors to heal privately without ongoing public exposure.