Sexual Assault and Harassment Lawsuits in Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft’s growth has come at a price, with incidents of sexual assault occurring due to a lack of safety precautions in this largely uncontrolled sector. In the past, these companies have suffered legal repercussions in part because of their inability to adequately safeguard passengers and drivers from unwanted sexual approaches or outright assault.
If you or a loved one was the victim of sexual violence in California, the California sexual assault attorney at Beck Law, PC can evaluate your experience and discuss what legal options may be available to you.
Uber and Lyft Sexual Harassment and Assault Statistics
According to an Uber Safety Report (PDF) issued in 2019, there were 5,981 incidents of sexual harassment and assault in 2017 and 2018. Clients accounted for 66% of these types of reported assaults, 42% came from drivers, and 2% came from a third party.
The Uber-sponsored study came to the conclusion that 99.9% of rides “finished without any safety-related concern at all.” This is despite the severe psychological trauma and bodily injuries that victims of sexual violence endure. The number of people who have been affected by these sexual-related incidents may be small in comparison to the whole, yet they are nevertheless significant.
This data on sexual harassment and assault complaints do not include Uber’s definition of “less serious” incidents of sexual violence. This is an essential distinction to keep in mind. Only the “most serious” occurrences were considered in the study. Aside from the fact that Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) reports that sexual harassment and assault are underreported offenses in general, the true number of accusations is likely to be far greater.
What Has Uber and Lyft Done to Prevent Sexual Assault in the Rideshare Industry?
Public rules governing ridesharing businesses’ compliance with legal business practices have been lacking, which has allowed for the occurrence and ignoring of safety hazards such as sexual violence. Both Uber and Lyft’s business models do not include provisions for the safety and well-being of their drivers and other employees. A company’s customers will suffer as a result of a lack of personnel control and concern on the part of management. So far, there have been no significant adjustments to Uber or Lyft’s employment practices despite their awareness of sexual abuse.
Can Uber and Lyft, Two Well-Known Ride-Sharing Services, Be Held Liable for Sexual Misconduct?
Criminal charges against the perpetrators of a sexual assault or harassment event can also be sought, but civil lawsuits against the perpetrators and ridesharing businesses themselves have been filed as well. In civil legal cases, a firm can be held accountable for failing to prevent sexual assault and demonstrating negligence, and so owe compensation to victims.
Beck Law, PC
As a rideshare passenger, it is important to seek legal aid if you or someone you know has been the victim of sexual assault. The Sonoma County sexual assault law firm-Beck Law, PC, offers seasoned legal counsel that is well-versed in the plight of sexual assault victims. You have a right to be heard and to file a lawsuit if you so choose.
Call (707) 576-7175 to speak with California sexual abuse attorney – Beck Law P.C. who can assist you in securing your safety and getting the compensation you deserve.
