The use of Uber and Lyft has become commonplace in Houston. Unfortunately, what riders never anticipate is becoming a victim of sexual assault at the hands of their Uber or Lyft driver.
In the past, victims of rape and sexual assault by Uber or Lyft drivers have bravely stepped forward, taking legal action against these companies when they failed to ensure the safety of their riders. These courageous individuals have pursued lawsuits seeking significant compensation for the harm they endured. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding the crime, it is crucial to recognize that victims still retain the right to seek justice and pursue compensation from Uber and Lyft.
For a free case evaluation with our Uber and Lyft sexual assault attorneys, contact The Queenan Law Firm, P.C. at (817) 476-1797.
Filing a Lawsuit for Sexual Assault Against Uber or Lyft in Houston
To ensure the safety of their passengers, it is crucial for Uber and Lyft to have strict screening processes. They should reject any drivers who have a history of criminal activity or dangerous driving incidents. Failing to screen drivers properly can put passengers in harm’s way. It is equally important for these companies to take responsibility for screening and interviewing drivers to ensure the safety of their passengers and protect them from any assault or sexual misconduct.
If Uber or Lyft’s mistakes result in a passenger being matched with a dangerous driver, they should be accountable for their actions. Our Uber and Lyft sexual assault attorneys specialize in helping victims recover compensation from large companies like Uber and Lyft. There have been cases where Uber and Lyft drivers have faced arrests and lawsuits for sexual misconduct. In some cases, the companies themselves have been implicated in these lawsuits and have had to take financial responsibility for their drivers’ actions.
Legal Claims You Can Make Against Uber, Lyft, or Their Drivers for Sexual Assault in Houston
If you have been a victim of sexual assault by an Uber or Lyft driver in Houston, you might have several options available to recover damages. Even though legal actions against these ride-hailing companies can be complex, the following claims can be made if a sexual assault occurs in Houston:
Negligent Hiring
Uber or Lyft could be held responsible for the actions of a dangerous driver if they were negligent in hiring, supervising, or retaining that driver. In Houston, it is important to hold Uber and Lyft accountable for not properly screening, supervising, or retaining drivers with a history of misconduct.
Assault and Battery
Assault and battery are commonly used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Assault is defined as the intentional act of causing someone to fear immediate harm or offensive contact. Battery, on the other hand, specifically refers to the physical act of actually inflicting harm or offensive contact on another person. It is worth noting that while assault and battery can occur together, they can also happen separately, with one occurring without the other.
Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
Intentional infliction of emotional distress involves conduct that causes severe emotional trauma in the victim, which sexual assault certainly qualifies. Proving the intentional infliction of emotional distress can be challenging, but it is an appropriate cause of action in a sexual assault case.
False Imprisonment
False imprisonment is a situation where someone is illegally held against their will. In the case of ridesharing, it happens when drivers who assault passengers intentionally restrict their freedom by locking them inside the vehicle, preventing them from leaving. These actions can result in a claim of false imprisonment and are considered unlawful.
Compensation You Can Recover for Sexual Assault by an Uber or Lyft Driver in Houston
If you have been a victim of sexual assault or sexual violence, you might be eligible for damages that aim to compensate for the harm you have suffered. These damages might include compensation for the violation you experienced, as well as any physical injuries, mental anguish, and pain and suffering that you have endured.
Moreover, you might also have the right to claim economic damages in court, which can cover medical treatments, lost wages, or other financial losses caused by the incident.
Uber and Lyft might try to pressure you into settling your case for lower compensation. Our team of attorneys is here to help you understand the real value of your case and support you in advocating for your rights. We can assist you in negotiating for higher damages, and if necessary, we are ready to defend your case at trial if these companies do not provide you with fair compensation.
In many cases, settling a sexual assault case can be a beneficial option as it can avoid the potentially distressing experience of testifying about your traumatic experience in court and facing cross-examination from opposing lawyers and judges. Our ultimate goal is to provide support throughout the legal process and ensure that you receive the justice and compensation you are entitled to.
Proving a Sexual Assault Case Against Uber or Lyft in Houston
Our firm focuses on helping victims of sexual assault committed by Uber and Lyft drivers. The offenses can range from inappropriate touching to more severe actions like penetration or forceful assault. The victim’s testimony is often crucial in holding the assailants accountable.
Aside from personal testimony, other evidence, such as pictures, videos, or audio recordings captured on the phone, and witness testimony or video evidence can further support the case. Cameras installed in some rideshare vehicles can also be seized as evidence in assault cases. Furthermore, the Uber or Lyft app can provide significant data regarding the driver’s identity and trip details.
Many sexual assault survivors are hesitant to come forward due to concerns about law enforcement’s handling of the case. There have been instances where rape kits and other critical evidence remain untested and unexamined for extended periods. In some trials, sentences for convictions might be lenient, and restitution for the victim might be insufficient or nonexistent.
In a civil lawsuit, the focus is on the victim and the harm they have endured rather than solely on the defendant. The burden of proof is lower, with the victim needing to demonstrate that it is “more likely than not” that their claim is true, as opposed to the higher “beyond a reasonable doubt” standard used in criminal cases. This provides victims with a stronger chance of winning a civil lawsuit against both their assailant and the rideshare company they were employed by, as compared to the uncertainties of a criminal case.
Our Houston Uber and Lyft Sexual Assault Lawyers Can Help
Call The Queenan Law Firm, P.C. today at (817) 476-1797 for a free case review with our Uber and Lyft sexual assault lawyers.