Ready to Get Justice? Give Our Rideshare Defense Attorneys A Call
Uber and Lyft market their ridesharing services as one of the safest modes of transportation. However, that’s not always the case. Accounts of sexual assault have been on the rise over the past few years from lax safety protocols and hiring processes. Uber alone reported over 6,000 claims of misconduct, whereas Lyft has accounted for over 4,000 between 2017 and 2018.
Though it is a convenient and affordable way to travel, an incident can happen at any time. You’re entrusting that your driver will abide by California traffic laws and companywide safety protocols – and when they don’t, you have the right to hold them legally accountable. If you or a loved one have been the victim of sexual assault, you’re not alone. The trusted ridesharing accident attorney of Grey Law Firm is ready to take on your case.
Can You Sue Uber for Assault? What About Lyft?
Most of our clients find themselves asking this question if they’ve been involved in a rideshare accident that’s costing them thousands in medical expenses. Unlike car crash or pedestrian accident claims, sexual assault is dealt with much differently. You’ll need an experienced lawyer to retrieve evidence that ties the driver to the assault, communicate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights.
After CNN investigated Uber’s sexual assault crises in 2018, both ride-hailing companies decided to implement passenger safety initiatives. They’ve nearly refined their services but have a long way to go. So far, riders can alert law enforcement at a moment’s notice through ADT on the app in cases of emergency.
But sometimes that’s not enough when it’s your word against the drivers. Uber and Lyft are notorious for evading responsibility. In fact, every time you accept a ride, you agree to use their services at your own risk. To fight against your claims in court, the opposing counsel might assert that you assumed liability for anything that could happen by using their services.
What Should Passengers Do After an Uber or Lyft Sexual Assault?
So many rideshare-related rapes and assault claims go unreported across the U.S. When you’re able to, a personal injury attorney would recommend that you:
- Move to a safe location.
- Call the police to report the incident.
- Go to the hospital immediately to seek medical attention.
- Use the Uber or Lyft ridesharing app to report the assault.
- Save everything. That includes clothing, rideshare receipts, photographic evidence, medical records.
- Reach out to our law offices right away. You deserve justice!
Determining Liability for Rideshare Sexual Assault Claims
California is among the few states with strict requirements for rideshare services. The hiring process is extremely lax compared to a traditional taxi or limousine service. To limit the number of fatalities, accidents, and assaults, Uber and Lyft can only hire candidates that meet these qualifications:
- Have a valid driver’s license for at least one year
- Can provide car insurance and car registration
- Drives a vehicle with at least four doors
- Passes an annual vehicle inspection or requests one for every 50,000 miles
Getting an annual background check is one of the most crucial state requirements. If your driver has any convictions, they shouldn’t be working for the company. When it comes to the safety of thousands, Uber and Lyft are negligent. The third-party businesses they employ to background check are often cheaper and time-saving. Unlike an FBI warranted search, they simply cannot provide an accurate evaluation.
At Grey Law, this is something we would consider using to tie the driver and ride-hailing company to your case. The compensation available for assault in a personal injury lawsuit varies per client. Rape, unwanted touching, and physical violence are just a few dangers we hope you never have to experience again.
About Grey Law
“When it comes to getting you more, I won’t settle for less.” – David Grey
When you or a loved one are injured due to negligence, carelessness, or wrongful acts of another person, David Grey is ready to help. Seeking compensation or negotiating with insurance companies can be stressful, especially while recovering. Let us do that for you.
With thousands of lawyers in California, we understand it can be difficult to choose the right legal representation. We have 35+ years of experience and secured millions for our clients. From the time you retain our firm, we build your case.
For a free case evaluation and consultation, reach out to us at (323) 857-9500 or email info@greylaw.com.
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