Dallas Sexual Assault in a Rideshare - Demanding Change and Seeking Compensation

Dallas was the first Texas city to launch Uber in 2012, and the popularity of Uber and other ridesharing companies has risen exponentially since that time. Although these businesses have increased their safety protocols to keep drivers and passengers safe, the matter of sexual assault, sadly and undeniably, continues. The Texas sexual assault attorneys at Carabin Shaw work with victims of sexual assault to ensure they get a fair settlement for their injuries and damages.

Ridesharing offers a convenient and affordable alternative to driving, but it also comes with its share of risk. Three rideshare companies reported approximately 4,600 serious incidents of sexual assault in 2019, the only year these companies all publicly reported data. Assaults occurred to passengers and drivers. Serious sexual assault incidents ranged from non-consensual kissing of non-sexual body parts to rape. If you are the victim of one of these attacks, don’t wait to contact our team at 800-862-1260. We have English- and Spanish-speaking representatives available 24/7 and we offer free case reviews.

Rideshare companies break sexual assault incidents down into five categories:

• Non-consensual sexual penetration
• Non-consensual kissing of a sexual body part
• Non-consensual touching of a sexual body part
• Non-consensual attempted sexual penetration
• Non-consensual kissing of a non-sexual body part

Consent means freely giving agreement to the conduct at issue by a competent person. Non-consensual implies there was no consent or the victim was incapable of consent. A victim may be forced into a non-consensual act through force, which might include emotional or psychological coercion, physical strength, or a weapon.

If you are unsure if your situation constitutes sexual assault, discuss your case with a Texas attorney with experience handling these cases. At Carabin Shaw, we offer a free case review, so you can answer any initial questions without obligation or expense.

Sexual assault is a devastating event that can leave a victim with serious physical and mental/emotional injuries. Victims are often hesitant to act after these attacks, but getting immediate medical attention is critical to preserving evidence and documenting injuries. A police report is also essential to hold the perpetrator criminally accountable for their actions.

You should also contact the rideshare company immediately. Victims can report the attack through the company’s website or app. Uber and Lyft also offer 24/7 customer service lines for passengers to report an incident.

Finally, seek the guidance of an experienced attorney who is prepared to sue a rideshare company for sexual assault and pursue the compensation you are entitled to receive. Locate a legal team that specializes in rideshare sexual assault cases, and check reviews from previous clients to see if they were satisfied with their experience with the firm.

Pursuing a lawsuit against a rideshare company begins with a consultation with a lawyer who is experienced in sexual assault cases involving rideshare companies. Your attorney will assess the details of the assault and file a lawsuit against the responsible party if appropriate. The litigation process often results in a fair settlement to compensate a victim for damages. If a settlement can’t be reached, your attorney will prepare your case for trial.

Rideshare companies can be held liable for these attacks if they fail to provide a safe environment for passengers. Safety measures might include:

• Driver background checks
• Zero-tolerance policies for harassment and assault
• GPS tracking, video or audio inside the vehicle, or emergency buttons
• Consistent reporting of possible safety concerns

If a rideshare company does not follow appropriate guidelines, they can be held responsible for a victim’s injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Victims of sexual assault in Dallas, and its surrounding areas, are often traumatized and embarrassed in the aftermath of a sexual attack. While following up after an incident can seem overwhelming, it is essential to ensure you receive fair compensation and the responsible parties are held accountable. There is no shame in what you have experienced or your desire to pursue legal action as a response. Carabin Shaw will navigate the complexities of the process so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

At Carabin Shaw, we offer our services on a contingency-fee basis so you don’t pay until we win your case. Our compassionate team will guide you through the process, supporting you every step of the way until you receive just compensation for your injuries and other damages. Contact us now at 800-862-1260.

For more information:

• GAO
• Uber App Box
• Cornell Law