Sexually Assaulted in an Uber in Florida? Know Your Rights

Ridesharing is a popular form of transportation. When you get into an Uber, you should feel confident that you are safe. The company has a legal duty to screen its drivers. Sadly, there have been many safety incidents reported—including sexual assaults. National Public Radio (NPR) cites data showing that nearly 10,000 sexual assaults were reported in Ubers over a three year period.

Victims deserve justice. Without question, the perpetrator of a sexual attack should be arrested and charged with a serious crime. Beyond that, Uber—or another ridesharing company—may also bear legal liability through a civil claim. Here, our West Palm Beach sexual assault & battery attorney explain your rights if you were sexual violated in a ridesharing vehicle in Florida.

You Have the Right to Be Safe in an Uber 

No person should ever be subject to sexual harassment—or worse, sexual violence—in a ridesharing vehicle. Every passenger in an Uber has the fundamental right to a safe ride. Florida law and Uber’s own policies mandate that drivers maintain a safe environment free of harassment and harm. The company should conduct rigorous background checks of all drivers.

 You Have the Right to Report Sexual Assault in an Uber 

In Florida, victims of sexual assault in an Uber have the right to report the incident to both law enforcement and to Uber itself. Justice matters .Reporting is a key step in asserting your rights and initiating the process of seeking accountability and financial support. Florida law enforcement agencies take such reports seriously—and Uber is obligated to cooperate with an investigation.

You Have the Right to Bring a Civil Sexual Assault Claim Against Uber 

If you have been sexually assaulted by an Uber driver, you can file a civil lawsuit against the driver and, in many cases, Uber. The civil sexual assault claim can be based on negligence in hiring and/or the failure to provide a safe service. Such a lawsuit can hold those responsible accountable and also address failures in corporate policy or driver oversight. Uber must be held accountable.

You Have the Right to Seek Financial Compensation for Sexual Abuse 

Victims of sexual assault in an Uber in Florida can seek financial compensation for damages resulting from the assault. You cannot trust Uber or its insurers to look out for your interests. Along with other types of losses, civil sexual assault victims may be entitled to recover damages for:

• Medical bills;
• Mental health counseling;
• Loss of wages;
• Loss of earning power;
• Pain and suffering;
• Mental distress; and
• Punitive damages.

Get Help From a Civil Sexual Violence Claims Attorney in Florida

At Pike & Lustig, LLP, our Florida civil sexual assault lawyers are compassionate, experienced advocates for victims. If you or your family member was sexually violated in an Uber or a Lyft, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. From our office in West Palm Beach and our office in Miami, our firm handles civil sexual assault cases throughout South Florida.

Source:

npr.org/2023/10/11/1205135476/sexual-assault-victims-suing-uber-notch-a-legal-victory-in-long-battle