Every year, hundreds of passengers report being sexually or physically assaulted during rideshare trips—an alarming reality in an industry meant to offer safe, convenient transportation. In fact, Uber’s own safety report revealed nearly 6,000 cases of sexual assault over a two-year period.
For victims, the trauma is immediate and overwhelming, but what happens after the incident is just as critical. Many people freeze, unsure of how to respond or whom to trust. Knowing your rights and the correct steps to take can make all the difference in your recovery and in seeking justice.
Understanding victim rights in rideshare assault cases is essential. Whether you’re reporting to the authorities, seeking medical attention, or pursuing legal action, it’s important to be informed, protected, and empowered from the start.
This article outlines the crucial steps you should take immediately after experiencing an assault by an Uber driver. Whether you’re ready to take legal action or simply need to know your rights, this guide will help you make informed, empowered decisions.
Immediate Steps to Take After an Uber Assault
Your safety and well-being come first. The moments after an assault can be confusing, but taking clear steps quickly can help protect your legal rights and preserve critical evidence.
Get to a Safe Location
If you’re still in the vehicle, ask to end the ride or exit as soon as possible. If you’re unable to do so, try to attract attention—call emergency services or a trusted contact. Once you’re in a safe location, take a few deep breaths.
You’ve been through something traumatic, and your instinct may be to shut down. That’s normal. But even small actions now can make a big difference later.
Call 911 and Report the Assault
No matter how minor the assault may seem, report it to the police immediately. A formal police report not only creates a legal record but also helps establish a timeline of events. Be as detailed as you can when speaking to law enforcement.
Provide the driver’s name, vehicle description, license plate, and the time and location of the incident. Under 18 U.S. Code § 2261, crossing state lines with the intent to commit or attempt to commit physical harm can also elevate the charge to a federal offense.
Document the Incident
Memories can fade quickly, especially after trauma. Take a moment to write down everything you remember:
- The driver’s behavior before and during the ride
- Any verbal threats or inappropriate comments
- Physical contact or signs of aggression
- Route deviations or unexpected stops
Also, take screenshots of your ride details from the Uber app, including driver information, timestamps, and location data.
If there are any physical injuries, take photos immediately. These could be crucial if you decide to pursue a legal case.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t have visible injuries, visit a hospital or clinic. Some injuries aren’t immediately obvious, and medical professionals can check for internal trauma or signs of assault.
Request a sexual assault forensic exam (commonly known as a rape kit) if applicable. Medical records also serve as objective evidence and support your credibility in both criminal and civil cases.
Know Your Legal Rights
Assault by a rideshare driver is not only a crime—it may also be grounds for a civil lawsuit. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Physical and emotional injuries
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
In some states, such as California and New York, victims may pursue claims under negligent hiring or supervision if Uber fails to properly vet or monitor the driver.
Under respondeat superior, a legal doctrine, employers (or companies like Uber) may be held liable for the actions of their agents if the misconduct occurred within the scope of their employment.
Keep in mind that some states have statutes of limitation for filing civil claims, ranging from one to several years. The clock starts ticking from the date of the assault, so time is critical.
Consider Speaking With a Legal Professional
Cases involving Uber assaults can be legally complex. Uber often denies responsibility by classifying drivers as independent contractors, which can limit their direct liability. However, recent legal precedents are challenging this stance.
A skilled attorney familiar with rideshare litigation can help determine:
- Whether Uber can be held liable
- If multiple parties (such as third-party background check services) share responsibility
- The full extent of damages you may be entitled to
Many law firms offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t pay unless they win your case.
Final Thoughts
Being assaulted by someone in a position of trust—especially during what should be a routine ride—can leave lasting trauma. But you are not powerless. By taking swift, informed action, you increase your chances of achieving justice, healing, and holding the responsible parties accountable.
