Ridesharing services like Lyft have transformed how we travel. Unfortunately, not every ride is safe. Reports of sexual assault by drivers—or even other passengers—have put many riders on edge, unsure of their rights or where to turn for help.
Lyft Sexual Assault Cases
Standing Up for Survivors of Rideshare Misconduct
If you’re one of the survivors, know that you don’t have to face this battle alone. At ’Maggio Law, we are committed to advocating for individuals who have endured a rideshare-related sexual assault. Our legal team has the experience, resources, and compassion to guide you toward the justice and compensation you deserve.
Rideshare Liability Basics
Lyft, like other rideshare companies, has a responsibility to ensure passenger safety. This includes conducting background checks, monitoring driver conduct, and taking decisive action when misconduct arises.
When a survivor comes forward with an assault claim, there are multiple parties who may be held accountable:
The Driver
If the driver commits an act of sexual violence, they can be held personally liable for criminal and civil damages. Depending on the circumstances, their personal auto insurance and any applicable commercial rideshare policies could also come into play.
The Rideshare Company
Under certain circumstances, the company itself may be found negligent—particularly if it fails to screen or monitor drivers effectively or ignores past reports of misconduct. Companies like Lyft typically set the standards for driver background checks, training, and incident response, which can create corporate liability if those standards are not met.
Vehicle Owner (if different from the driver)
In some cases, the individual who owns the car used for rideshare purposes may share responsibility. If the owner knowingly allowed a driver with a history of misconduct or insufficient licensing to operate the vehicle for commercial use, they could be named in a civil suit.
Third-Party Background Check Providers
Rideshare companies often rely on external agencies to verify a driver’s criminal and driving records. If these providers conducted faulty or incomplete screenings that failed to catch relevant red flags, they could be subject to liability for negligent background checks.
Insurance Carriers
When a sexual assault occurs in a rideshare vehicle, multiple insurance policies may come into play—both the driver’s personal policy and Lyft’s commercial coverage. While these entities typically do not face direct liability for assault, their policies can be crucial in covering damages awarded to survivors.
By identifying all potentially liable parties, survivors and their attorneys can pursue the full compensation they deserve. Each party’s level of responsibility depends on how their actions—or inactions—contributed to the assault, whether through direct involvement, negligent oversight, or failure to enforce safety standards.
Four Reasons Why Survivors Turn to ’Maggio Law
- Compassionate Support: We understand the emotional and psychological toll of sexual assault. Our attorneys and staff provide a supportive environment where you can share your experience and concerns without judgment.
- Proven Experience: Our legal team’s extensive background in handling personal injury and assault cases has resulted in millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients. When large corporations attempt to diminish claims, we have the skill and resources to fight back.
- Personalized, Client-Focused Representation: At ’Maggio Law, we don’t believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Every survivor’s experience is unique. We take the time to investigate every detail, ensuring no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of accountability and fair compensation.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about upfront costs. Your financial and emotional recovery is what matters most, and we only get paid if we secure a settlement or verdict on your behalf.
FAQs
Can I file a claim even if I did not immediately report the assault to the police or Lyft?
Absolutely. While prompt reporting can help strengthen your case, it is not an automatic disqualifier if you did not initially contact the police or Lyft. You may still pursue legal action if you have other evidence—such as messages, medical exams, or witness statements—and can demonstrate the assault occurred.
How does my anonymity get protected during a Lyft sexual assault lawsuit?
Courts recognize the sensitive nature of sexual assault cases, and there may be legal options to protect your identity. Some states allow survivors to file under initials or “Jane Doe”/“John Doe.” Your attorney can request protective orders or confidentiality agreements to safeguard personal information. While absolute anonymity can’t always be guaranteed, these measures help keep your details out of the public record as much as possible.
What if I live in a different state than where the assault occurred?
Jurisdiction can be complex, but it typically lies where the assault took place. If you no longer live in that state, you can still bring a claim. Modern technology allows for remote court appearances and depositions in many cases. Your attorney will advise you on whether to file suit in the state where the incident occurred or if there are any alternative venues that may apply.
Could Lyft’s arbitration clause affect my ability to sue?
Some rideshare companies include arbitration clauses in their terms of service. These clauses can require disputes to be resolved privately rather than in court. However, many sexual assault cases challenge the enforceability of such clauses, arguing they are unconscionable when it comes to egregious misconduct. An experienced lawyer can review the specific terms of your agreement with Lyft and help determine whether you can bypass or challenge the arbitration requirement.
Does the criminal case outcome impact my civil lawsuit?
Criminal and civil proceedings are separate. A criminal case must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt,” while a civil case uses a “preponderance of the evidence” standard. Even if criminal charges are dropped, or a driver is acquitted, you may still have a valid civil case. A not-guilty verdict in criminal court does not automatically negate your ability to recover damages in a civil suit.
What if the driver’s account was deactivated by Lyft after my report—does that help my case?
Lyft’s response can be relevant to your case if it indicates the company believed the report was credible enough to remove the driver. While deactivation itself doesn’t prove liability or wrongdoing, it can support a claim that the driver was a known risk. Your attorney may use Lyft’s internal actions, policies, and investigation results to bolster your allegations of negligence.
Can I still pursue a claim if I also plan to sue the driver individually?
Yes. Filing claims against multiple parties is common in these situations. You may include Lyft, the driver, and possibly others (like background check providers) in one lawsuit or in separate actions. Your attorney will guide you on the best strategy based on your specific circumstances, available evidence, and the legal requirements in your jurisdiction.
Are there any specific state laws that provide additional protections for sexual assault survivors in rideshare incidents?
Some states have enacted legislation aimed at strengthening rideshare regulations and safeguarding passengers’ rights. This may include mandatory driver background checks, fingerprinting, or additional insurance coverage. Your attorney can explain how state-specific rideshare or sexual assault survivor laws might reinforce your claim or offer added protections.
How important is digital evidence from the Lyft app itself?
Digital evidence, such as ride receipts, route tracking data, driver profiles, and in-app messages, can be crucial. This information can help confirm your whereabouts, the length of the ride, and the driver’s identity at the time of the assault. Securing this data promptly is essential; rideshare companies frequently retain it for limited periods, so requesting it early can strengthen your case.
Can I recover costs for therapy or counseling related to the trauma?
Yes. If you can show that you need mental health treatment—such as therapy, counseling, or medications—to cope with the psychological impact of the assault, those expenses can be part of your damages claim. Courts recognize that sexual assault often results in emotional distress, and compensation may include costs for mental healthcare, future therapy needs, and other related services.
