California law gives rideshare sexual assault survivors the right to pursue justice and compensatory damages for the harm they have endured. These survivors can notify the police about their sexual assault incident. Doing so can lead to an arrest. If the perpetrator is convicted, they can receive prison time, a fine, and other penalties. Sexual assault survivors can also request compensation from an Uber or Lyft driver and their rideshare company through a civil claim.
Speak with a California adult sexual abuse lawyer to learn how the law protects rideshare sexual assault survivors. An adult sexual abuse attorney is compassionate and empathetic. They will explain your legal options. With any option you choose, your lawyer remains on your side to support you in any way they can.
A Closer Look at the Sexual Assault Survivors Bill of Rights
The Sexual Assault Survivors Bill of Rights details the legal rights of sexual assault survivors in California. If you are a rideshare sexual assault survivor, you have the right to request:
- An exam or interview with a sexual assault counselor (victim advocate) or other support 24 hours a day
- A court order to protect you
- A law enforcement officer, who can grant you an emergency protective order to protect you right away
- Test results and evidence from your assault
- A case number and information about what will happen next
The Obligations of Rideshare Companies and How They Apply to Sexual Assault Cases
Rideshare companies are not legally required to perform background checks of drivers. However, Uber and Lyft conduct these checks. They will disqualify drivers who do not meet their respective requirements. In addition, Uber and Lyft vet their drivers and ensure they have a valid driver’s license.
Unfortunately, there are times when Uber and Lyft do not comply with these and other obligations to those who book trips with them. For example, a rideshare company lets someone work as a driver after this individual fails a background check. This driver poses a serious risk to passengers.
Hold Uber or Lyft accountable if it does not vet its drivers properly and you are sexually assaulted as a result. An adult sex abuse lawyer can help you seek compensation from the liable driver and their rideshare company.
Requesting Compensation for Rideshare Sexual Assault in California
According to California Code of Civil Procedure Section 340.16, sexual abuse victims have 10 years from the date of an incident in which they were harmed or three years from the date of discovery of an injury or illness from it to get compensation from a liable party.
An adult sex abuse lawyer explains the statute of limitations relative to your case. They want you to request economic and non-economic damages from the rideshare driver and their employer. Reasons you could receive damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical bills
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Your lawyer wants you to prioritize your health and well-being while they build your case. They encourage you to pursue professional counseling if you feel this could be beneficial.
Meanwhile, your attorney gathers medical records, witness statements, and other evidence to support your argument. They could negotiate a settlement for you. Alternatively, if you want to take your case to trial, your lawyer supports your decision to do so.