Since first being introduced to the public in 2009, rideshare apps have skyrocketed in popularity and see millions of users each year. While these companies aim to provide safe and convenient rides, reports of assault have become a pressing issue. From 2017 to 2020, nearly 10,000 sexual assaults were reported to Uber, and Lyft received over 4,000 reports between 2017 and 2019.
If you have been a victim of an assault in connection with Uber or Lyft in Albuquerque, there are legal options available to you. Read on to learn more about what solutions may be available to you, and consult with the New Mexico attorneys at Carabin Shaw to get started on your legal journey toward healing.
The Legal Landscape of Rideshare Assaults: Understanding Your OptionsVictims of assault can potentially pursue legal action against the assailant and the rideshare company. In these cases both criminal and civil charges may potentially be pursued.
Pursuing claims against Uber and Lyft in a civil suit can allow victims to seek damages for everything from medical bills to pain and suffering that resulted from the attack. Likewise, charges against the perpetrator in a civil suit can also allow victims to recover damages, whether or not criminal charges are filed. An Albuquerque attorney for rideshare assault cases can explain what options are available to you.
Rideshare Policies: Reporting the AssaultBoth Uber and Lyft have in-app features to report assaults directly on the app, in accordance with their similar policies on sexual assault. For Lyft or Uber sexual assault claims in Albuquerque, prompt reporting is important.
Pursuing Justice: The Role of Law Enforcement and Criminal ChargesMany choose to report assaults that occur in rideshares to police as a way to get justice against perpetrators and help stop them from causing further damage to others. However, it is entirely up to the victim whether or not to press criminal charges. Civil charges are often still an available option even if criminal charges are not filed.
Enlisting the help of an experienced attorney to help you report your accident and guide you in interactions with law enforcement can be helpful. If you choose not to involve the police or are undecided, your lawyer can help you explore other options to get justice and compensation for your assault.
Civil Litigation: Seeking Compensation and Holding Responsible Parties AccountableUber, Lyft, and other ride-sharing companies have a duty to protect their users from unsafe situations. Failure to reasonably fulfill this duty, such as not conducting thorough background checks or not disqualifying candidates with violent prior convictions, can leave these companies liable for assaults that occur. Over the years, these companies have paid out millions of dollars because of their negligence in this regard.
Skilled lawyers for Uber and Lyft assault victims will investigate the circumstances surrounding your claim and help you decide how best to proceed.
Carabin Shaw Is Here to HelpTurn to our team to fight for you. We are committed to delivering justice for our clients, allowing them to move forward with confidence, and holding liable parties responsible for their wrongdoings. You can see our dedication to our clients from Carabin Shaw reviews.
Call us toll-free at 800-862-1260 to schedule your free case review. Our English and Spanish-speaking staff are standing by, ready to take your call 24/7. For our client’s peace of mind, we offer our services on a contingency fee basis.
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