Skip to content 
Survivors of sexual misconduct or assault in rideshares like Uber and Lyft often face not only the trauma of the event itself but also confusion about what steps to take afterward. This guide is here to help you understand your options, care for yourself, and, if you choose, take legal action.
Safety Tips for Rideshare Passengers
While the responsibility for safety ultimately lies with the rideshare companies and drivers, there are proactive steps passengers can take to reduce risk, especially during higher-risk situations like late-night rides home from bars or parties.
Before You Even Step Into the Vehicle
A solid percentage of reported rideshare sexual assaults happen to intoxicated women leaving bars late at night. Alcohol can lower awareness, slow reaction times, and make it harder to recognize or respond to danger. Here are steps to take before you get in the car:
- Plan Ahead: If you know you’ll be drinking, arrange a trusted friend to share the ride or pick you up.
- Buddy System: If possible, don’t ride alone. Have someone walk you to your rideshare and watch you get in safely.
- Share Your Trip: Use the app’s “Share My Trip” feature to send your ride details to a friend or family member so they can track your route in real time.
- Verify the Car & Driver: Check the license plate, car make/model, and driver’s name before entering. Ask the driver, “Who are you picking up?” instead of confirming your name.
- Sit in the Back Seat: This gives you more personal space and a quicker exit if needed.
During the Ride
- Stay Aware: Even if you’re tipsy, try to keep your phone in your hand with the rideshare app open.
- Follow the Route: Watch the route on your app to ensure you’re headed in the right direction.
- Keep Communication Open: Call or text someone to let them know you’re on your way home.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, whether it’s the route, the driver’s behavior, or the conversation, ask to end the ride in a safe, public location.
For Sober Passengers in Late-Night Bar Scenes
Even if you haven’t been drinking, risks increase late at night in areas with heavy bar traffic.
- Avoid Waiting Alone: Stay in well-lit areas or indoors until your ride arrives.
- Stay Visible: Position yourself where security cameras or staff can see you get into the car.
- Confirm Your Ride: Never accept a ride from someone claiming to be your driver without verifying via the app.
Other Scenarios to Consider
Airport or Travel Pickups
- Use official rideshare pickup zones with staff or security present.
- Be alert after long flights; fatigue can lower your guard.
Daytime Rides
- Even in daylight, verify driver identity and share your trip.
- Avoid overly personal conversations about your home, work, or daily routine.
When Riding Alone in Rural or Isolated Areas
- Share your trip and location before the ride begins.
- Consider keeping a personal safety alarm or whistle within reach.
If You Ever Feel Unsafe
- End the Ride Early: Ask to be dropped off in a public, well-lit place.
- Call for Help: Use the rideshare app’s emergency button or dial 911 directly.
- Exit the Vehicle: If possible, get out where there are other people around.
Reporting the Incident
- To Law Enforcement
Filing a police report can document the assault and may lead to criminal charges against the driver. - To the Rideshare Company
Uber and Lyft have in-app reporting tools and hotlines. While this can help flag the driver and prevent further harm, it is not a substitute for law enforcement action. - To Advocacy Organizations: Groups like RAINN, local sexual assault centers or other advocacy groups, can help you with emotional needs and practical next steps.
Filing a Lawsuit
Taking legal action is a personal choice. Doing so can be empowering, albeit daunting. This is why it helps to, at the very least, get a free consultation from an attorney that specializes in these types of cases. But remember, you are in control of this decision. If you decide not to press criminal charges or file a civil lawsuit, your choice is completely valid. Only you can determine what feels right for your healing and safety.
Your Legal Options
If you were assaulted during an Uber or Lyft ride, you may have the option to:
- Join existing lawsuits.
- This means becoming an official participant in a legal case that’s already been filed by other people, rather than starting your own separate case from scratch.
- Examples include the Uber sexual assault federal Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) or California state court Uber cases.
- As of August 2025, more than 2,400 lawsuits were consolidated in the MDL; roughly 600 similar lawsuits are consolidated in California courts.
- File your own individual lawsuit in the state where the assault occurred.
- Example: Currently, there are no consolidated Lyft sexual assault cases; each lawsuit must be filed individually.
Why Having an Attorney Matters
A lawyer experienced in rideshare sexual assault cases can:
- Help you decide whether joining the MDL (in the case of Uber), filing in California state court, or pursuing another path.
- Handle communications with the rideshare company’s legal team, who are actively fighting to limit their liability.
- Calculate the full amount of compensation you may deserve, including medical expenses, therapy costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
- Guide you through the legal process, making sure required procedures are followed and evidence is presented effectively.
Uber’s and Lyft’s lawyers have denied many survivors’ allegations and may attempt to shift blame or question your account. Having a skilled attorney ensures you don’t have to face these tactics alone. And most rideshare attorneys, including the ones Surivors Rights partners with, work on contingency. That means that you don’t pay anything unless you receive compensation through a settlement or jury trial.
Compensation and Justice
Through a lawsuit, survivors may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills and mental health care
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
Just as importantly, legal action can hold rideshare companies accountable, pushing them to adopt stronger safety measures and better protect passengers in the future. In addition, the more survivors that come forward, the more likely it is for the rideshare companies to agree to a settlement.
Self-Care During the Legal Process
Pursuing a claim can bring up painful memories. Therefore, consider:
- Working with a trauma-informed therapist.
- Leaning on your support system.
- Giving yourself permission to pause and rest when needed.
You’re Not Alone
Thousands of survivors have come forward to share their stories and demand change from Uber and Lyft. Speaking out may not be easy. Whether you choose to report, seek legal action, or focus on healing, your safety and dignity matter above all.
If you’re ready to explore your legal options, SurvivorsRights.com may help connect you with compassionate attorneys who understand the unique challenges of rideshare sexual assault cases. Your consultation is free, confidential, and entirely on your terms.