In Need of a Rideshare Physical and Sexual Assault Lawyer in Houston, TX?
At the Hollingsworth Law Firm, our Houston personal injury attorneys know that rideshare services have become a common form of transportation in Texas and nationwide. Millions of riders schedule rideshare services like Uber and Lyft for various reasons, including what they perceive as a safe door-to-door ride from pick up to drop off.
What is becoming more common is these companies facing criticism for reported sexual violence and physical assaults against riders, which have led many users to file Uber and Lyft lawsuits to pursue compensation for their injuries.
Here, we discuss why sexual and physical assaults may be occurring in rideshare vehicles and what you can do if you are a victim of these traumatic circumstances.
Why are Rideshare Physical and Sexual Assaults Occurring in Texas?
Common reasons rideshare physical and sexual assaults occur in Texas may include, but are not limited to:
- Opportunity for Isolation
Rideshare services often involve one-on-one interactions in a relatively private and enclosed space. This can create an opportunity for perpetrators to take advantage of the isolated environment, making it easier for them to commit acts of assault without immediate intervention.
The relative anonymity of drivers and passengers in rideshare transactions can be a factor. Individuals may feel encouraged to engage in inappropriate or criminal behavior because they believe it is easier to escape identification or consequences.
- Insufficient Background Checks
While rideshare companies typically conduct background checks on their drivers, there may be cases where the checks are not thorough enough, allowing individuals with a history of violence or criminal behavior to become drivers.
In some cases, passengers may be impaired, so they schedule a safe transportation alternative instead of driving. This can contribute to increased inappropriate or aggressive behavior from drivers who exploit the rider’s vulnerable state.
- Inadequate Safety Features
Rideshare companies must continually enhance and implement safety features within their apps and vehicles, including in-app emergency buttons, trip tracking, and driver/rider identification verification, which can help improve safety and security.
- Failure to Report and Address Incidents
In some cases, incidents of assault may go unreported or are not promptly addressed by rideshare companies. If there is a perception that reports will not lead to meaningful consequences, it may encourage perpetrators and contribute to additional sexual and physical assaults by drivers.
How Many Rideshare Sexual and Physical Assaults Have Been Reported?
According to a report from Uber, users reported nearly 6,000 sexual assault cases to the company over two years. Lyft has not released similar sexual assault data.
Uber’s report found in cases of “non-consensual sexual penetration,” passengers made up 92% of victims over that period.
As riders who drivers have sexually or physically assaulted continue to report the incidents, more lawsuits are being filed against the companies for failing to prevent these traumatic incidents from occurring.
If you or someone you know is a victim of Uber and Lyft sexual assault, physical assault, unwanted physical contact, indecent exposure, or rape, we can help you enforce your legal rights to hold the company accountable for their driver’s actions.
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, Our Houston Personal Injury Attorney Also Focuses on the Following Practice Areas:
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we understand the profound impact that rideshare assaults can have on victims. Houston, with its bustling urban landscape and extensive rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, has unfortunately seen a rise in incidents where passengers are subjected to physical and sexual assault by drivers. These traumatic experiences not only violate personal safety but also shake the trust in services designed for convenience and security.
What You Should Know About Rideshare Assaults in Houston, TX
Physical Assault: Physical assault in a rideshare context may involve unwanted physical contact, such as groping, hitting, or other forms of physical aggression. These actions are not only criminal but also grounds for civil liability.
Sexual Assault: Sexual assault encompasses a range of non-consensual sexual acts, including but not limited to inappropriate touching, forced sexual acts, or any behavior that violates the victim’s personal autonomy and consent.
Psychological Impact: Beyond physical harm, victims often suffer from emotional and psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These effects can be long-lasting and require comprehensive treatment and support.
Legal Responsibilities of Rideshare Companies
Rideshare companies have a duty to ensure their passengers’ safety. This includes:
- Thorough Background Checks: Ensuring drivers have clean criminal records.
- Driver Training: Educating drivers on appropriate conduct and safety protocols.
- Prompt Response to Complaints: Addressing allegations of misconduct swiftly and effectively.
Failure to uphold these responsibilities can lead to liability for any assaults during rides. Victims may have grounds to pursue legal action against both the individual perpetrator and the rideshare company.
What to Do Immediately After Experiencing Assault During a Rideshare in Houston, TX
If you have been assaulted during a rideshare journey in Houston, consider the following steps:
- Ensure Your Safety: Exit the vehicle and move to a safe location.
- Contact Authorities: Report the incident to the Houston Police Department immediately.
- Seek Medical Attention:A medical examination is crucial even if injuries seem minor.
- Document the Incident: Gather any evidence, such as screenshots of the ride details, communications with the driver, and witness information.
- Consult an Attorney: Contact Hollingsworth Law Firm for a confidential consultation.
What Rideshare Companies Are Liable for Physical and Sexual Assaults in Houston, TX?
In some cases, the rideshare company may be held liable for its drivers’ actions, especially if it’s proven that the company failed to conduct proper background checks or respond adequately to prior misconduct complaints. Companies like Uber and Lyft may be liable for:
- Negligence in screening drivers.
- Failing to investigate complaints of misconduct.
- Improper driver training or inadequate safety measures.
What Are the Available Compensation Options for Rideshare Assault Cases?
Victims of rideshare assaults may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, therapy, and future medical needs related to the assault.
- Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to the inability to work following the incident.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress endured.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, additional damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.
Why Choose Hollingsworth Law Firm?
At Hollingsworth Law Firm, we represent victims of rideshare assaults in Houston. Our team offers:
- Legal Representation: Experienced attorneys well-versed in Texas personal injury and assault laws.
- Compassionate Support: Understanding and empathetic guidance throughout the legal process.
- Contingency Fee Basis: No upfront costs; we only get paid if you win your case.
We are dedicated to holding perpetrators accountable and securing the compensation our clients deserve.
Contact Our Rideshare Physical and Sexual Assault Lawyers in Houston Today
Contact our dedicated Houston personal injury lawyers at the Hollingsworth Law Firm today by calling 713-637-4560 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.
Our skilled bilingual personal injury lawyers and support staff represent clients throughout Texas on a contingency basis, so you never pay any legal fees unless we win your case.
If you are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve, so are we. Let us take the lead.
FAQs
In some cases, yes, you may be able to sue the rideshare company, such as Uber or Lyft, if their driver assaults you. However, this depends on the specific circumstances of the case. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Houston can investigate your claim and help determine if the company can be held accountable.
In Houston, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including rideshare assaults, is typically two years from the date of the incident. Therefore, acting quickly to ensure your case is handled within the legal timeframe is essential.
While you can pursue a case without an attorney, having a skilled lawyer in Houston increases the likelihood of a successful outcome. A lawyer will help you understand your legal rights, ensure you are not exploited, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Yes. Uber and Lyft may be held liable if negligence, background check failures, or inadequate safety measures contributed to your assault. Hollingsworth Law Firm investigates all responsible parties, including the rideshare company, the driver, and any third parties, to pursue the maximum compensation.
The state files a criminal case against the perpetrator for violating criminal laws, such as assault or battery, which may result in criminal penalties like jail time. A civil case, however, is filed by the victim in Houston to recover damages, such as medical costs and emotional distress. You can pursue both cases simultaneously, and having a personal injury lawyer in Houston can help guide you through each process.
Critical evidence includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, GPS trip data, rideshare app communications, and video footage from the vehicle or from nearby surveillance cameras. Hollingsworth Law Firm aggressively gathers and preserves this evidence.
Texas has enacted laws requiring rideshare companies to implement specific safety measures, including driver background checks and insurance mandates. However, these may not prevent all incidents, and legal recourse remains vital for victims in Houston.
In most cases, signing a release or waiver does not prevent you from pursuing a lawsuit if you’ve been assaulted in Houston. Texas law may render certain waivers unenforceable, especially when public safety is at issue, such as in assault cases. Consulting with a personal injury attorney in Houston can help you understand if the waiver impacts your case.
