The convenience of app-based ridesharing has become part of daily life for millions across the country. But for some, what starts as a simple ride turns into a deeply traumatic experience. Ridesharing abuse is real—and it happens more often than many realize. Survivors of these incidents may be left feeling isolated, unsure of what to do next, or afraid to speak out.
If this sounds familiar, know this: you are not alone, and what happened is not your fault. There are legal protections in place, resources available, and compassionate professionals who want to support you through every step of your recovery. Whether you’re unsure about reporting, need help preserving evidence, or want to explore legal action, this guide outlines your rights, the laws that may apply, and the practical steps you might take to begin healing and seeking justice.
The Rise of Ridesharing—and Its Risks
Services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation in the U.S., providing more than 11 billion rides between 2010 and 2020. But with that growth comes a dark reality. Thousands of abuse reports have been tied to ridesharing platforms.
According to Uber’s most recent U.S. Safety Report:
- 5,981 incidents of sexual assault were reported over a two-year span
- 3,045 were reported in a single year alone
- Assaults ranged from non-consensual kissing to sexual penetration
Lyft’s safety report showed similar concerns, with thousands of complaints of sexual misconduct, harassment, and assault.
These numbers represent more than statistics. They reflect real survivors whose lives were affected. And many more cases likely go unreported due to fear, shame, or concern about being believed.
What Abuse in Rideshare Vehicles Can Look Like
Rideshare abuse may take many forms. While each experience is unique, the following are among the most commonly reported:
Forms of Ridesharing Abuse
- Sexual Assault or Harassment
- Inappropriate touching
- Unwanted advances
- Sexual comments or propositions
- Inappropriate touching
- Physical Assault
- Pushing, grabbing, or other physical harm
- Pushing, grabbing, or other physical harm
- Verbal Abuse or Threats
- Name-calling, intimidation, or derogatory language
- Name-calling, intimidation, or derogatory language
- Stalking and Post-Ride Harassment
- Unwanted calls, messages, or following the rider after a trip ends
- Unwanted calls, messages, or following the rider after a trip ends
Emotional Impact of Abuse
Many survivors report emotional and psychological trauma long after the physical incident ends. This may include:
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Depression or emotional numbness
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Fear of using ridesharing services or traveling alone
- Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
Healing takes time, but understanding your rights and available protections can be an empowering first step.
Why Ridesharing Can Be Vulnerable to Abuse
Unlike taxis, which are regulated heavily in most states, rideshare services operate under more flexible laws. That, combined with the private nature of rides, creates an environment where abuse may happen undetected.
Contributing Factors:
- Minimal oversight: Background checks vary by platform and jurisdiction
- One-on-one isolation: Most rides involve a single driver and passenger
- Delayed or discouraged reporting: Survivors may fear backlash or dismissal
- Company accountability issues: Some platforms deny liability, even when drivers are accused of misconduct
These factors do not excuse what happened. Instead, they underscore the importance of holding companies accountable and enforcing stronger protections.
Legal Protections for Survivors of Ridesharing Abuse
Survivors of ridesharing abuse may be protected by both federal and state laws, even if the abuse was not immediately reported. Because these rideshare companies operate throughout the nation, they may be held accountable under certain federal laws.
Key Federal Protections
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA): Provides funding for survivor services, support, and legal resources.
- Civil Rights Act: May apply in cases involving discrimination or harassment.
- Crime Victims’ Rights Act (CVRA): Protects the rights of survivors during criminal justice proceedings.
Survivors of rideshare abuse may also have legal remedies based on state laws depending on where they live and where the abuse occurred.
State-Specific Protections
While laws vary by state, many jurisdictions offer additional protections, including:
- Civil remedies for sexual assault or battery
- Mandatory reporting requirements for rideshare companies
- Survivor privacy statutes that prevent unnecessary public exposure
Tip: A local attorney can explain how your state’s specific laws may apply to your case.
Can Rideshare Companies Be Held Responsible for Driver Abuse?
Yes, in some cases, survivors may file civil lawsuits against not only the driver but also the rideshare company itself. While rideshare companies have tried to avoid responsibility for their drivers’ actions by calling them “independent contractors,” many courts have disagreed and found the companies responsible in certain circumstances.
Legal Grounds For Action Against a Rideshare Company May Include:
- Negligent hiring or retention of a driver with a dangerous history
- Failure to warn riders of known risks
- Inadequate safety features or reporting systems
- Poor response to complaints or abuse reports
Rideshare companies have dedicated legal teams that protect their interests and their bottom line, often at the expense of riders’ safety and well-being. If you are a rideshare abuse survivor, you need to work with an experienced abuse legal advocate who prioritizes your needs and will challenge big corporations to fight for your rights.
Steps To Take After Surviving Rideshare Abuse
If you've survived abuse during a rideshare trip, taking the following steps can protect your health and legal rights, while strengthening your potential legal case.
1. Move to Safety
Your immediate safety is the priority. Call 911 if you're in danger, or get to a secure location.
2. Seek Medical Treatment
If you were physically harmed, get immediate medical care. A medical exam can determine the extent of your injuries and a treatment plan. It can also provide evidence of the harm you’ve suffered for future legal purposes.
3. Preserve Evidence
Try to save anything that may later support your experience:
- Take screenshots of ride details, maps, or chat logs
- Photograph visible injuries
- Save hospital records or police reports
- Keep a journal of what happened and how it’s impacted you
4. Report the Incident
- To the Platform: Use the in-app safety features or contact customer service
- To Authorities: File a police report and request a copy
- To Medical Professionals: Get treatment and preserve records for any injuries
5. Consider Taking Legal Action
You may have the right to pursue compensation or justice through civil litigation, criminal complaints, or both. A knowledgeable rideshare abuse attorney can help you understand your options.
What Compensation is Available for Rideshare Abuse Survivors?
While no amount of money can undo the harm done by rideshare abuse, compensation may help cover medical and therapy expenses and restore a sense of justice.
Potential Compensation May Include:
- Medical Bills – Hospital visits, surgeries, therapy, prescriptions
- Lost Wages – Time missed from work or reduced future income
- Pain and Suffering – Emotional trauma, loss of enjoyment in life
- Punitive Damages – Some states allow these damages in cases of extreme negligence or misconduct to punish the wrongdoers and deter similar behavior in the future
How Can Abuse Survivors Pursue Financial Compensation?
Depending on your unique circumstances, you may have several options available to you to recover the compensation you deserve, including:
- Rideshare insurance policies: Large companies like Uber and Lyft may carry insurance to cover certain abuse-related injuries
- Crime victim compensation funds: Many states have established these funds for qualified abuse survivors
- Class action lawsuits: In cases involving multiple survivors harmed by the same driver or platform, a group of survivors can join a lawsuit to pursue compensation from the rideshare company
Common Challenges for Rideshare Abuse Survivors, and How to Overcome Them
Legal action may feel daunting, but you are not expected to face the complex legal system alone. It’s common to run into obstacles, but legal support is available when you partner with a skilled rideshare abuse lawyer. We understand:
Survivors Often Face:
- Fear of not being believed
- Uncertainty about where to start
- Emotional exhaustion or burnout
- Legal intimidation from rideshare corporations
You Can Respond By:
- Documenting everything thoroughly
- Asking a support person or advocate to help with reporting
- Speaking to a trauma-informed attorney who understands this type of case
You Deserve Support, Safety, and Justice
Experiencing abuse during a rideshare trip is disorienting and upsetting. You might question what happened, whether it was serious enough to report, or if it’s too late to take action. The answer is: it is not too late to speak up.
You deserve to feel safe. You deserve to be heard. And if you choose to pursue justice, you deserve to be supported by professionals who understand how to help you do that.
We’re Here to Support You
At FileAbuseLawsuit.com, we’re committed to supporting survivors of rideshare abuse with compassion, confidentiality, and clarity. If you’re ready to talk about your options—or even if you’re not sure where to begin—we’re here to listen.
Contact us for a free, confidential consultation.
Call (209) 935-3341 or fill out our secure form to connect with a legal professional who can help you start the process of healing and accountability. Your story matters, and your safety comes first.
FAQs for Rideshare Abuse Survivors
Can I sue Uber or Lyft if I was assaulted during a ride?
Possibly. If the company was negligent—such as failing to properly screen the driver—you may be able to pursue a civil claim.
What if I didn’t report the incident right away?
You may still have options. Many survivors delay reporting due to fear or trauma. A knowledgeable legal professional can evaluate whether your case is still actionable.
Is my identity protected if I file a claim?
Many laws and legal processes include privacy protections. You may also be able to file anonymously in certain circumstances.
What if I signed a settlement or NDA with the company?
It’s best to talk to a lawyer before signing anything related to your legal rights. However, if you’ve already signed something, it’s still important to meet with a lawyer to understand what your rights are and whether the agreement is enforceable.
Do I need a police report to file a lawsuit?
It can help, but a report is not always required. Other forms of evidence and testimony may also support a civil case.