Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft should provide a convenient and safe mode of transportation for everyone.
However, in recent years, there have been numerous reports of sexual assault cases involving these companies.
No one has the right to violate your consent. When it happens, you need the help of an Uber and Lyft sexual assault lawyer from File Abuse Lawsuit.
With decades of experience protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors, the lawyers in our network can ensure that your voice is heard and that justice is served.
Schedule a free case evaluation with our compassionate Lyft and Uber sexual assault attorneys to learn more about your legal options.
Updates to Ongoing Uber and Lyft Sexual Assault Cases
February 1, 2025 – Bellwether Trials Near in Uber MDL as Cases Rise to 1,487
The Uber MDL expanded to 1,487 active cases by February 2025. Judge Charles R. Breyer has set strict deadlines for selecting bellwether cases, with both parties required to finalize their picks by mid-February.
The Nevada Supreme Court’s denial of Uber’s proposal to cap attorney fees represents another major victory for victims.
Legal experts predict that these initial trials, along with the expanding discovery scope, will exert significant pressure on Uber and Lyft to address systemic safety concerns surrounding sexual assault incidents.
January 1, 2025 – Uber Sexual Assault MDL Escalates Amid Complex Discovery and Trial Prep
The federal MDL against Uber reached 1,459 active sexual assault cases in January 2025, highlighting the company’s mounting legal challenges. Recent filings have raised questions about discovery protocols, as plaintiffs accuse Uber of delaying the production of critical safety data.
Court rulings have partially favored plaintiffs, requiring Uber to disclose pertinent documents in user-accessible formats. Bellwether trial preparations are well underway, with initial cases scheduled for case-specific discovery ahead of trials in late 2025.
Meanwhile, Lyft faces its own growing share of lawsuits, further emphasizing the need for systemic safety improvements.
December 1, 2024 – Discovery Disputes Take Center Stage in Rideshare Sexual Assault MDL
The Uber MDL reached over 1,400 cases by December 2024, marking a steep rise in the litigation’s scope. Discovery disputes dominated recent proceedings, with plaintiffs seeking confidential documents and precedents from unrelated safety claims.
The court allowed limited document sharing, consistent with its push for data transparency. A November filing further detailed allegations that inadequate background checks and lack of safety measures directly contributed to numerous attacks.
The first trials in late 2025 are expected to provide significant insights into the accountability of rideshare companies.
November 1, 2024 – Court Allows Vicarious Liability Claims in Uber Sexual Assault MDL
A pivotal pretrial ruling in November 2024 allowed vicarious liability claims against Uber and Lyft to move forward. The court focused on the companies’ broader duty of care, particularly the safety assurances made in their marketing and operational structures.
This ruling directly challenges the defense’s argument that drivers, as independent contractors, fall outside corporate liability. With the total active sexual assault cases approaching 1,500, this legal development could significantly impact Uber and Lyft’s liability exposure.
Plaintiffs, meanwhile, continue to press for new safety measures to prevent future harm.
October 1, 2024 – Court Establishes New Guidelines for Depositions in Uber MDL
To streamline the growing litigation process, the court issued a deposition protocol order in October 2024 for the Uber MDL.
The new guidelines outline detailed logistical arrangements, including rules for virtual depositions and third-party involvement, such as Lyft’s participation in the Industry Sharing Safety Program (ISSP).
These measures aim to prevent discovery delays and ensure smooth collaboration moving forward. With over 1,400 cases now consolidated under the MDL, this procedural update marks another critical step in advancing the litigation while protecting survivors’ rights.
September 1, 2024 – Record Number of Sexual Assault Cases Filed Against Uber
Over 946 new sexual assault lawsuits were filed against Uber in August 2024, reflecting an unprecedented surge that brings the total number of cases to nearly 1,300 in the MDL.
Magistrate Judge Lisa J. Cisneros issued an important discovery order, requiring Uber to provide more transparent data formats and addressing third-party discovery disputes involving Lyft. These cases highlight serious accusations of corporate negligence linked to background checks and safety protocols.
A discovery status conference is set for the end of September, ensuring continued oversight of the ongoing litigation process.
August 1, 2024 – Uber Ordered to Provide Driver Safety Reports Amid Rising Sexual Assault Cases
The Uber multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 3084) saw a critical development in August 2024 as the court ordered Uber to release detailed safety report data. This ruling, prompted by the growing number of sexual assault allegations, underscores the importance of transparency in the litigation process.
Uber must now provide data from internal systems, such as JIRA and Zendesk, to help plaintiffs demonstrate the company’s awareness of safety risks and alleged negligence.
With 321 active cases in the MDL and thousands of similar allegations, this information could become crucial evidence as victims seek justice.
July 2024 - Rising Interest in MDL No. 3084 as More Plaintiffs Join
The multidistrict litigation (MDL) involving Uber and Lyft, overseen by Judge Charles R. Breyer in the Northern District of California, now includes over 321 cases.
By consolidating these cases into an MDL, the court seeks to streamline pre-trial procedures, ensuring efficiency and consistency across similar ongoing lawsuits.
June 2024 - Uber Sexual Assault Lawsuits Filed in May
Two claims of sexual assault by an Uber driver were filed at the beginning and end of May.
The first one was filed by a Boston woman whose case will likely be added to a pending MDL once the case is transferred to federal court.
The second one was filed by a California woman who was sexually assaulted in the backseat of an Uber that was transporting her to a medical appointment.
May 2024 - Court Upholds MDL Against Uber's Objection, Denies Consolidation Prohibition
In May 2024, Uber attempted to argue that its "Terms of Use" should prevent injured rideshare users from consolidating their claims through a Multidistrict Litigation (MDL).
However, the court rejected Uber's assertion, ruling that the company's language barring coordinated legal actions is unenforceable. The court emphasized that enforcing such terms would undermine the benefits of MDLs and hinder effective litigation management.
Furthermore, the court noted that Uber's terms directly contradict the objectives Congress had in mind when establishing MDLs.
This ruling marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing Uber sexual assault MDL. If the court sided with Uber, it would have entirely dismissed the MDL.
April 2024 - Uber Confronts Shareholder Lawsuit; Ordered to Reveal Investigation Documents in Texas Court
On April 10, 2024, Uber Technologies Inc. found itself at the center of a federal lawsuit filed by its shareholders. The litigation accuses the company's leadership of misleading the public and investors regarding the company's safety standards despite being aware of over 9,000 incidents of sexual assaults committed by its drivers.
The lawsuit names the CEO and former CFO as defendants, alleging they profiteered significantly from insider trading and hefty compensation packages while these incidents were allegedly concealed.
43 new cases were added in 2024 alone, escalating the total number of pending lawsuits in this Uber sexual assault multidistrict litigation (MDL) to 230.
A Texas judge has mandated that Uber disclose all documents related to government investigations and that both parties provide detailed fact sheets.
How Does Rideshare Sexual Assault Occur?
Physical Force
Using physical force to overtake the victim and coerce them into sexual acts is one of the most common ways Lyft or Uber sexual assault occurs. Sexual violence can happen during the ride, at a stop, or even when the victim is unconscious.
Common types of physical sexual assault in Lyft or Uber sexual assault cases can include:
- Forced kissing or touching
- Vaginal, anal, or oral penetration
- Masturbating in front of the victim
- Grabbing or groping without consent
These acts can happen to any rider regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation.
If you have experienced any form of physical force during a rideshare, trust our law firm to provide aggressive representation that holds the offender accountable for their actions.
Coercion or Intimidation
Not all assault is done by physically overtaking someone. Some drivers may use coercion or intimidation tactics to make a rider feel uncomfortable and forced into sexual acts.
This can include:
- Verbal threats
- Promising payment or discounts in exchange for sexual favors
- Using the rider's intoxication or vulnerability as an opportunity for assault
Any sexual activity without explicit and enthusiastic consent is considered assault.
If you have experienced this kind of abuse during a rideshare, our lawyers can help you seek the justice you deserve.
Manipulation
Rideshare drivers may manipulate a rider into thinking that the sexual acts are consensual.
This can occur through:
- False flattery and compliments
- Promising a safe ride in exchange for sexual favors
- Creating a sense of trust or friendship before taking advantage of the rider's vulnerability
No matter the driver's demeanor, remember that any form of sexual activity without explicit consent is considered assault.
An Uber sexual assault lawyer from File Abuse Lawsuit can help you navigate the legal process and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
What Injuries Occur As A Result Of Rideshare Driver Sexual Assault?
Sexual abuse has severe physical, emotional, and psychological consequences for the survivor, including but not limited to:
- Physical injuries such as bruises, cuts, and broken bones
- Sexually transmitted infections and diseases
- Unwanted pregnancy
- Trauma-related disorders like anxiety, depression, and PTSD
These consequences can impact a survivor's daily life, from their ability to work to their relationships. Our attorneys understand the sensitive nature of these cases.
They will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.
What Damages Can I Recover In A Rideshare Sexual Assault Lawsuit?
Beyond seeking criminal penalties for the offender, you may recover financial compensation for your damages, including but not limited to:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
In cases of severe assault, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the offender or rideshare company for their negligence in preventing these incidents.
Schedule a confidential case evaluation with our Uber and Lyft sexual assault attorneys to learn more about the value of your case.
Do I Need to Report Rideshare Sexual Assault?
Reporting rideshare assault is crucial not only for seeking justice and holding the offender accountable but also for preventing future incidents from occurring.
Additionally, by coming forward, you may be able to join a class action lawsuit against the rideshare company, potentially leading to larger settlements.
While no amount of money will ever make up for the trauma of sexual assault, taking legal action can help you find closure and send a message that this behavior will not be tolerated.
If you are struggling with whether or not to report your assault, our experienced sexual assault attorneys can offer guidance and support through the process.
How Can an Uber Sexual Assault Lawyer Help My Case?
There is no denying that the trauma of sexual assault can overwhelm you.
With trouble focusing on basic tasks, deteriorating relationships with loved ones, and the psychological effects that can linger for years to come, an experienced Uber sexual assault lawyer can offer support and guidance through this difficult time.
At File Abuse Lawsuit, we strive to provide this comprehensive and compassionate legal support by:
- Listening to your story and advocating for your needs throughout the legal process
- Gathering evidence and building a strong case to hold the offender accountable
- Negotiating with insurance companies and other parties for a fair settlement
- Representing you in court if necessary to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Our team has extensive experience handling rideshare sexual assault cases and understands the complexities and sensitivity involved.
We are dedicated to providing personalized attention to each of our clients, ensuring their rights are protected and they receive the justice they deserve.
What Should I Do if an Uber or Lyft Driver Sexually Assaulted Me?
If an Uber or Lyft driver has sexually assaulted you or a loved one, take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention and report the assault to law enforcement and the rideshare company immediately.
- Contact an experienced rideshare sexual assault lawyer for guidance on your legal options.
- Preserve any evidence, such as text messages or call logs with the driver, that may help support your case.
- Keep track of any expenses related to the assault, including medical bills and lost wages.
- Take care of yourself physically and emotionally during this difficult time.
Remember, you are not alone in this process. The legal professionals at File Abuse Lawsuit are here to support you every step of the way in seeking justice for your assault.
Don't hesitate to reach out for a confidential case evaluation to learn more about your legal options.
Uber and Lyft Sexual Assault Claims FAQ
How long do I have to report a sexual assault by a rideshare driver?
The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit varies by state. You must act immediately after the incident no matter how long the state provides to file a lawsuit. Contacting law enforcement and a lawyer can help ensure your case is handled promptly and effectively.
What if I don't have any physical injuries?
Even if you do not have physical injuries, you may still be entitled to compensation for the emotional distress and trauma caused by the assault. Our attorneys will work with you to understand the full impact of the assault on your life and seek appropriate damages.
Can I file a lawsuit if the assault occurred in another state?
Yes, you may still be able to file a lawsuit in your home state, even if the assault occurred in another state. Our attorneys have experience handling cross-jurisdictional cases and can assist you in seeking justice no matter where the assault occurred.
The rideshare company offered me a settlement. Should I accept it?
Consult an experienced rideshare sexual assault lawyer before accepting any settlement offers. These companies often try to offer low settlements to avoid negative publicity, and our attorneys can help you negotiate for a fair amount that fully compensates you for your damages.
Stand Up To Rideshare Sexual Assault With File Abuse Lawsuit
No one has the right to violate your safety and well-being, especially a rideshare driver who is supposed to provide safe transportation.
If an Uber or Lyft driver has sexually assaulted you or a loved one, our attorneys at File Abuse Lawsuit are here to support you in seeking justice and holding the offender accountable.
Contact us today for a confidential case evaluation to learn more about your legal options. Let us help you stand up against rideshare sexual assault. Call us today at (209) 283-2205.