What to Do After Being Assaulted by an Uber Driver in Washington
Coming to terms with what happened during or after an Uber ride can take time. You may not be sure how to describe it, whether to tell anyone, or even what you want right now.
The most important thing to know is this: you didn't cause it, and you're not alone.
Whether the assault occurred recently or years ago, you still have choices. Your well-being comes first. There's no need to rush, but when you're ready, these steps can be helpful:
- Get to a safe place. Surround yourself with people or spaces where you feel secure, whether that's at home, with someone you trust, or in a care setting.
- Consider medical care, even if you're unsure. A healthcare provider can support your physical health and check for injuries. If you're comfortable, they can also collect forensic evidence, but that decision is entirely yours.
- Preserve any related information. This could include your trip receipt, screenshots from the app, messages with the driver, or the clothes you were wearing at the time. You can save these without deciding right away what to do with them.
- Think about reporting the incident. You don't need a police report to speak with a lawyer. However, if you choose to report, it can create a documented record that may be helpful in the future.
- Talk to someone who understands these cases. A trauma-informed Washington Uber sexual assault lawyer can explain your legal rights, answer questions, and help you feel more grounded in your next steps.
You don't have to have everything figured out. There is no single "right" way to respond after an assault. Support is available at your pace, on your terms, and with care for what you've experienced.
Why Many Uber Assaults in Washington Go Unreported
Even when survivors take careful steps to protect themselves, like saving receipts, seeking medical care, and documenting what happened, they often stop short of telling anyone.
- Washington does not have a statewide system for tracking sexual assault reports in rideshares.
- Uber's own safety reports only show national numbers, with no breakdown for cities like Seattle, Spokane, or Tacoma.
That silence creates uncertainty. When a survivor doesn't see their experience reflected anywhere, it's easy to wonder whether speaking up would make a difference.
Across the nation, researchers estimate that a vast majority of sexual assaults are never reported to police. For rideshare assaults, the gap is likely even wider. Some drivers use fake names or rotate vehicles to avoid detection. Riders might be alone, intoxicated, or afraid of retaliation. Often, the people most at risk are the ones least supported by reporting systems.
None of this makes a survivor's experience any less real. But it can make it harder to act, even when the instinct to reach out is there.
Talking to a Washington Uber sexual assault attorney doesn't require you to file a claim, relive what happened, or make any decisions on the spot. It's a chance to speak with someone who knows how these cases work and who will never push you toward a decision you're not ready for.
When Speaking Up Feels Difficult, Knowing What's Possible Can Be Empowering
Many survivors hesitate to take legal action, especially if no report was filed or the assault happened months or even years ago. A Washington Uber sexual assault lawsuit can help expose repeated patterns, uncover corporate negligence, and potentially prevent future assaults.
If you're ready to explore your legal rights, we're here to help. Contact Levin Simes at (415) 426-3000 for a free, confidential consultation with a trauma-informed attorney who understands what you've been through.
What a Washington Uber Sexual Assault Lawsuit Can Help You Recover
Choosing to take legal action is a deeply personal decision, but for many survivors, it's also a way to reclaim a sense of control. A lawsuit can help you access resources that support your healing, safety, and stability going forward.
Depending on your experience, compensation may cover:
- Medical care, hospital visits, or follow-up treatment;
- Therapy or mental health services;
- Lost wages from missed work;
- Impact on your ability to earn in the future;
- Emotional pain and trauma;
- Relocation, home security, or other safety needs; and
- Additional costs tied to your recovery.
You don't have to go through this process alone. Survivors who work with an experienced legal team often receive significantly more in compensation than those who try to navigate the system by themselves. We're here to help you feel safer, more informed, and supported every step of the way.
How Our Law Firm Supports Survivors in Washington
At Levin Simes, we believe survivors should never have to face this process alone. We've supported over 500 individuals in rideshare sexual assault claims, protecting their rights at every step.
If you're thinking about speaking with an attorney, here's what you can expect from us:
- Listening without judgment,
- Explaining your options clearly,
- Keeping your identity and details private,
- Investigating thoroughly and respectfully, and
- Taking legal action if and when you're ready.
Whether you're looking for answers, accountability, or simply someone to help guide you through your next steps, our team is here to support you.