Understanding Sexual Violence in Rideshare Situations
Sexual violence in rideshares ranges from verbal harassment and unwanted physical contact to groping and rape. These assaults frequently occur in circumstances where passengers are at their most vulnerable—alone in an enclosed space, sometimes intoxicated, often at night, with limited ability to escape.
Uber's own safety report revealed nearly 9,000 instances of sexual assault across the U.S. in just two years, though experts believe actual numbers far exceed what gets formally reported.
New York City, as one of the largest rideshare markets in the country, faces significant challenges with driver misconduct and Uber's oversight failures.
Sexual assault can happen to anyone. We advocate for survivors of all genders, including women, men, and LGBTQ+ individuals who have experienced violence during Uber rides.
Rideshare Safety Concerns Across New York City
New York City's dense population and 24/7 culture create massive demand for rideshare transportation. From the Bronx to Staten Island, from Brooklyn to Queens, millions of residents and visitors depend on these services daily.
Yet this scale has also exposed systemic problems with how Uber screens, monitors, and responds to complaints about drivers.
Media outlets have documented multiple cases of New York-area Uber drivers arrested for sexual misconduct. Common patterns include:
- Warning signs that were missed during Uber's screening process
- Prior passenger complaints that went unaddressed or were dismissed
- Drivers with concerning histories who were allowed to remain active on the platform
- Inadequate background checks that failed to identify red flags
Survivors shouldn't have to accept empty statements from Uber. You deserve meaningful accountability.
Financial Recovery Can Support Your Healing Journey
Research shows that survivors represented by experienced legal counsel in rideshare assault cases receive substantially higher compensation compared to those navigating claims alone.
This financial recovery isn't just about money. It addresses tangible losses: emergency medical treatment, ongoing therapy, time away from work, and the profound emotional toll of trauma. Compensation recognizes that what happened to you was serious, harmful, and never acceptable.
Our team at Levin Simes handles the legal work so you can concentrate on healing. Contact a New York Uber sexual assault lawyer at (415) 426-3000 or through our confidential online form.
Your Legal Options Under New York Law
New York survivors have powerful civil remedies, whether or not criminal charges are filed. Understanding these options helps you make informed choices about your next steps.
Civil Lawsuits Against Uber
You can bring a negligence lawsuit against Uber under New York law, which holds the company responsible for foreseeable harm. Uber may be liable when it:
- Fails to screen drivers properly,
- Ignores warning signs in driver histories,
- Dismisses or mishandles passenger complaints, or
- Keeps unsafe drivers active despite reports.
You may seek compensation for medical care, therapy, lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional harm.
Crime Victims’ Rights and Protections
Under New York’s Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights, survivors are entitled to dignity, fairness, and respect. You have the right to be informed about proceedings, to be heard at sentencing, to request restitution, and to have an advocate present throughout the process. These protections apply whether you pursue a criminal case, civil action, or both.
Holding Uber Accountable in New York
Uber’s classification of drivers as independent contractors does not prevent liability when its negligence enables harm.
Through a New York Uber sexual assault lawsuit, survivors can recover damages for medical and psychological treatment, lost wages, physical pain, and reduced quality of life.
Featured by CNN, Bloomberg, CBS News, NPR, Buzzfeed, Good Morning America, The Guardian, Reuters, and others, Levin Simes leads national litigation for Uber sexual assault survivors.
Our firm serves as lead counsel in more than 1,600 consolidated cases and has secured settlements for over 500 survivors nationwide.
"Your decision to seek justice matters. We'll stand with you throughout this process, ensuring you have both legal advocacy and compassionate support."
— Laurel L. Simes
Why Survivors Trust Our New York Uber Sexual Assault Law Firm
Extensive Rideshare Case Experience
We're among the few national firms with deep expertise in Uber sexual assault litigation, having handled hundreds of cases across multiple states through individual claims and coordinated legal actions.
Compassionate, Women-Led Representation
Our attorneys recognize the sensitive nature of these cases and approach every conversation with empathy, confidentiality, and professionalism. We listen when you're ready to talk, without rushing or pressuring you.
New York Expertise, National Resources
While we serve clients throughout New York and nationwide, we bring local understanding to each case. You're partnering with advocates who have both regional knowledge and substantial legal resources.
.avif)
.webp)
