Sexual Assault: The Unexpected Danger of Rideshare Services

When someone requests a ride from Uber or Lyft, they expect professionalism—polite drivers, clean vehicles, and a smooth trip to their destination. The only threats that most people associate with a rideshare experience are potholes, traffic jams and awkward conversations. The last thing anyone imagines is that the driver might grope, harass, or even assault them. Yet, this nightmare has become a reality for thousands of passengers, leading to many lawsuits against these companies for failing to ensure passenger safety.

Assaults in Rideshare Vehicles on the Rise

As of October 2024, over 1,300 rideshare assault lawsuits have been consolidated into a federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) in California. This MDL consolidates sexual assault and harassment claims from across the country. Plaintiffs allege that Uber and Lyft failed to provide proper safety measures, such as thorough driver background checks and timely follow-up on assault reports. There has been a surge in lawsuits. In September 2024, the number of lawsuits assigned to the MDL tripled, rising to over 1,200 from less than 400. The number of lawsuits may continue to rise, considering that Uber’s data shows that in a recent two-year period, nearly 6,000 cases of sexual assault cases were reported.

These lawsuits focus heavily on sexual assault, with reports including everything from groping to rape. Victims allege that the rideshare companies’ vetting processes were inadequate, allowing drivers with prior convictions or problematic behavior to operate unchecked.

Is It Better To Take Uber/Lyft To Court Or Agree To A Settlement?

Whether it’s better to pursue a court trial or agree to a settlement depends on the specifics of the case. Settlements are typically faster, less stressful, and provide guaranteed compensation without the unpredictability of a trial. However, taking the case to court could potentially result in a higher payout, especially if the evidence is strong and the case garners public attention. On the downside, trials can be lengthy, emotionally draining, and carry the risk of receiving nothing if the verdict isn’t favorable. Consulting with an experienced rideshare personal injury attorney is crucial to weigh these options based on the unique details of the claim.

Will There Be A Rideshare Sexual Assault Settlement?

As of October 2024, a global settlement has not been reached in the ongoing sexual assault lawsuits against Uber and Lyft. Some individual cases have resulted in settlements. The terms of these agreements remain confidential.

What Rideshare Companies Are (and Aren’t) Doing to Improve Safety

Uber and Lyft have implemented some safety measures in response to mounting lawsuits and public pressure. These include annual background checks, emergency location-sharing features, and streamlined reporting processes. However, critics argue that these efforts are too little and too late. Many victims still report feeling unsupported after filing complaints. Plaintiffs in the ongoing litigation are demanding more stringent actions, such as mandatory in-car cameras and improved driver monitoring systems to reduce the risk of future incidents.

Taking Action: How CBW Law Advocates for Rideshare Assault Victims

At CBW Law, our compassionate, skilled attorneys understand the challenges and trauma that survivors of rideshare assaults face. Our experienced legal team is committed to holding rideshare companies accountable for their negligence and fighting for justice on behalf of our clients. If you or someone you know has been a victim of assault during a rideshare trip, we are here to help. Contact CBW Law today for a free consultation, and take the first step toward securing the compensation and peace of mind you deserve.

Reference: NPR Staff. “Uber Received Nearly 6,000 U.S. Sexual Assault Claims in Past 2 Years.” NPR, 5 Dec. 2019.