Rideshare apps like Lyft and Uber are a great way to get around, especially when you need a designated driver. Unfortunately, some rideshare drivers take advantage of people in their vehicles. Rideshare sexual assault can leave victims traumatized and confused.
If you’ve been sexually assaulted by a Southern Missouri rideshare driver, help is available. The driver may be liable for criminal charges – and you may be able to pursue a civil claim against them or the rideshare company. A sexual assault and abuse attorney can help you report the incident and get justice for your ordeal.
What Counts as Sexual Assault in a Rideshare?
Sexual assault can take many forms. Some of the most common include:
- Unwanted sexual touching or kissing
- Forcing victims to perform sex acts
- Attempted rape
- Penetration with objects or body parts
When rideshares are involved, sexual assault may also involve:
- Inappropriate questions and comments
- Contacting you after the ride is over
- Stalking or harassing you after the ride is over
What to Do Immediately After the Incident
Rideshare sexual assaults are often very distressing for victims. However, some people second-guess whether they’ve been sexually assaulted. They may assume that it wasn’t serious enough to count as sexual assault, or brush it off as a misunderstanding.
Even if you think you might be overreacting, it’s important to take action. Physical evidence and memories fade over time, but they’re crucial if you want to pursue a claim. Here’s what to do after the incident:
- Seek Medical Attention – If you experienced a physical assault, seek immediate medical attention. Do not take a shower or wash your clothing until you’ve seen a healthcare provider and have informed them of your assault.
- Document the Incident – Write down everything you can remember about the incident. Your rideshare app history shows the date, time, and driver information. Describe what happened in your own words. Include details about who was present, where the assault happened, and how it made you feel.
- Document Your Treatment – If you have physical injuries, take photos of them immediately after the incident and during the healing process. You can also keep a journal to describe any lingering pain, further injury, and the effects the incident has had on your life. This might include nightmares, an inability to work, anxiety, or depression. Similarly, if you were prescribed any medication or follow-up appointments, document those. Save your receipts and medical reports.
- Report the Driver to the Police – Next, report the driver to the police. Filing a police report provides a valuable record of the incident. Ask for a copy of the report.
- Contact an Attorney – An attorney from Privette Law Office can guide you through the next steps. If you haven’t already filed a police report, your lawyer will help you understand the process. They can also help you report the driver to the rideshare company. Your attorney will explain your legal options and the next steps you’ll take.
How a Privette Law Office Attorney Can Help
Sexual assault is both a criminal and civil offense in Missouri. When you file a police report, the district attorney’s office will decide whether to file criminal charges against the driver.
A sexual assault attorney from Privette Law Office can help you pursue a civil claim. Civil lawsuits allow victims to recover monetary compensation, including:
- Medical expenses
- Emotional trauma
- Lost wages for missed work
Other compensation may be available, depending on the individual facts of your case.
Civil sexual assault claims may be filed against the driver and the rideshare company. While the person who committed the assault is personally responsible, the rideshare company may have indirectly led to the incident. Your attorney may argue that they were negligent in hiring or retaining the driver, or otherwise failed to adequately protect passengers.
Throughout the process, Privette Law Office will investigate the assault, negotiate aggressively for compensation, and keep you informed.
Act Now to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been sexually assaulted by a rideshare driver in Southern Missouri, Privette Law Office can help. Let our compassionate, experienced attorneys help you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today to get started.