Learn from Our Miami Uber/Lyft Sexual Assault Lawyers
Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies have had an enormous rise to success. Uber and Lyft drivers transport millions of people each day; only recently, however, have details emerged about the dangers their passengers face. Safety reports indicate that thousands of people are sexually assaulted by rideshare drivers and other passengers each year.
At Mase Mebane Seitz, our legal team represents individuals and their families that have been sexually assaulted while taking an Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare. We understand how difficult this can be. Surviving a sexual assault can not only take a huge toll on you physically, but it can devastate you mentally and emotionally. We are here to help.
Our lawyers are compassionate, experienced victim advocates who will do everything in their power to get you the resources, counseling, and compensation that you need. Contact our office for a free, confidential consultation.
A Shocking Safety Record
In a 2019 safety report, Uber revealed that it received nearly 6,000 reports of sexual assault over a two-year period in the United States. Tragically, it is expected that the actual number of sexual assaults is significantly higher, as many go unreported.
According to Uber’s Safety Report, during the two years, there were:
- 19 fatal physical assaults;
- 464 reports of non-consensual sexual penetration (rape);
- 587 accounts of attempted non-consensual sexual penetration;
- 3,000 reports of non-consensual touching of a sexual body part;
- Nearly 800 reported incidents of non-consensual kissing of a sexual body part; and
- Over 1,000 reports of non-consensual kissing of a non-sexual body part.
The company faced increased scrutiny to release information regarding the number of sexual assaults and other safety incidents. Safety concerns prompted the city of London not to renew Uber’s operating license. As reported by ABC News, transportation officials cited “a pattern of failures by the company” that “placed passengers and their safety at risk.”
If you or a loved one was sexually assaulted during an Uber ride, contact our office at (844) 627-3529. It is essential to know that you are not alone. We are staunch advocates for sexual assault victims and believe that they must be heard.
What Is Sexual Assault?
Many people falsely assume that sexual assault solely refers to rape or some form of non-consensual penetration. While rape is a form of sexual assault, the term encompasses much more. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) defines sexual assault as any “sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the victim.”
Sexual assault can include but is not limited to:
- Attempted rape;
- Rape;
- Any sexual contact that is coerced or forced;
- Unwanted kissing or touching;
- Kissing, touching, or penetration of an intoxicated individual; and
- Any non-consensual sexual act.
Unfortunately, many sexual assault survivors never come forward. Too often, these egregious crimes go unreported, letting perpetrators and liable third-parties off without consequence. At Mase Mebane Seitz, we hope to give all victims a voice. We know that it can be challenging to come forward, but we will be with you every step of the way.
Learn more on our resource page: “Representing Sexual Assault Victims.”
How Do I Know If I Have a Sexual Assault Case Against Uber?
If you were sexually assaulted in an Uber or Lyft, you should always report the case to law enforcement. Crucial evidence needs to be collected as soon as possible in order to hold the perpetrator criminally responsible. It is generally in your best interest to contact an experienced trial lawyer. An attorney can review your case to determine your legal options.
Uber has received numerous complaints regarding sexual assault and other forms of sexual misconduct by its drivers. Dozens of previous investigations and news reports have shown that Uber failed to conduct adequate background checks on all of its drivers and failed to protect its passengers from potential harm. Coming forward helps to hold Uber accountable for failing to address these atrocious acts.
Sexual Assault Lawsuits Against Uber
Uber is facing hundreds of lawsuits across several states by men and women who accuse the company of failing to provide safe rides for its passengers.
According to Business Insider, a woman in New York brought a lawsuit against the company for “negligence and deceptive business practices,” stating that, despite being “aware of a clear pattern of sexual assaults over the years,” they did nothing to stop it or protect passengers from harm.
It is not only passengers who face the risk of harm or abuse. Uber drivers have also been sexually and physically assaulted. Many assault victims fear retaliation by their employer or another party for coming forward with allegations of abuse.
If you were assaulted while driving or riding in an Uber, you should not be afraid to come forward. We will help guide you through the legal process and help you get the services you need to heal.
What Should I Do If I Was Sexually Assaulted?
If you were the victim of sexual assault, you need to call 9-1-1. Make a report of the incident as quickly as possible. To pursue a claim for damages against Uber, Lyft, or another party, you will want legal assistance. A trial lawyer can help you file a civil lawsuit against all negligent or wrongful parties, including the rideshare company.
You should never feel ashamed, alone, or responsible for the assault. All too often, survivors put some or all of the blame on themselves. You did nothing wrong. Let us help you hold the right people liable for their wrongdoing.
Contact Mase Mebane Seitz for a Confidential Consultation
As a sexual assault survivor, you deserve an attorney that believes in you and believes in your right to recovery. The attorneys at Mase Mebane Seitz are here to fight for you. We know that coming forward and telling your story is not easy, but it will make a difference.
Contact our office at (844) 627-3529 to discuss your case. All consultations are free and confidential. We believe that you should never have to pay to get the legal advice you need. We are here to help.