A 2022 survey by RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) revealed that 23% of women who used rideshare services reported experiencing some form of sexual harassment or assault by their driver.
Ridesharing apps were launched to provide everyone with a convenient and safe means to get around. But it seems the cloak of anonymity and the trust placed in the drivers of these vehicles have created a dangerous situation for the passengers, especially for those who identify as women or nonbinary.
If you’ve been assaulted by an Uber driver, you need to immediately file an Uber sexual assault lawsuit. The process is not a walk in the park; you would need a lawyer who would help you get through it all.
What to Do After You’ve Been Sexually Assaulted in an Uber
If you are the unfortunate victim of a sexual assault in an Uber, here are the immediate steps you should take:
Get to Safety
Your safety is paramount. If you can, try to exit the vehicle immediately. If you’re unable to escape, try to get the driver’s attention and yell for help. You can also use the Uber app’s emergency button feature, which will connect you directly to 911.
Call 911
Report the assault to the police as soon as possible. Don’t be afraid to speak up, even if you feel shaken or embarrassed. The police need your report to investigate and hold the perpetrator accountable.
Seek Medical Attention
Go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center. Ask for a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE). Even if you don’t have any visible injuries, it’s important that you get a medical evaluation to document the assault and receive any treatment necessary.
Gather Evidence
If possible, try to preserve any evidence that can help your case. This could include details like the driver’s name and photo, the time and location of the assault, any ripped clothing, or blood stains.
Contact Uber Support
Report the assault to Uber through their app or website. While Uber cannot press charges, they can deactivate the driver’s account and cooperate with the police investigation.
Connect with a Support System
You don’t have to be alone in this. You can reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or a crisis hotline like RAINN (National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE) for support and guidance. They will stick with you from that moment until you’ve fully recovered.
You’re allowed to heal at your own pace. Take your time, heal, and then get back up to work with your lawyer so you can get the justice that you deserve.
What to Do If You Witness a Sexual Assault in Uber
If you witness a sexual assault happening in an Uber, here’s what you can do:
- Call 911 immediately: The most critical step is to get help for the victim. Don’t hesitate to call the police, even if you’re unsure of the exact situation. The police can figure it out when they get there.
- Try to distract the driver: If it’s safe to do so, try to distract the driver by calling out to the victim or pretending to know them. This could create an opportunity for the victim to escape.
- Gather information: If possible, discreetly note down details like the car’s license plate number, the driver’s description, and the victim’s condition. This information can be invaluable to the police investigation.
- Offer support to the victim: Once the police arrive, check in with the victim and offer any support you can. Let them know they are not alone and that help is available. You might be asked to come on board as a witness, you’re morally obligated to offer your eyewitness account to help put the perpetrator behind bars.
Wrapping Up
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Feelings of shame, anger, or even fear can hit you, but you must not let them linger. The primary focus now should be getting justice against the perp who assaulted you. Your lawyer can handle the case on your behalf while you focus on healing from the trauma.
