When we hail a rideshare vehicle such as with Lyft, we have an expectation to be safely transported to our desired destination. However, sadly, not all rideshare trips end in this manner. Physical and sexual assaults in Lyft vehicles are an unfortunate reality and victims often suffer physical, emotional and psychological trauma as a result of these assaults that could stay with them for a long time.

Filing a civil lawsuit against Lyft is not only a way for survivors of sexual assault to seek compensation for their losses, but also a means to hold the company accountable for negligence and failing its customers. At the Vaziri Law Group, APC our Lyft assault lawyers have the experience and knowledge necessary to compile evidence and put you in a position to receive justice and maximum compensation for your losses.

What is the Average Value of a Lyft Sexual Assault Case?

Lyft assault case settlements are typically confidential and the value of the settlement depends largely on the facts and circumstances of a specific case. Sexual assault and battery cases typically yield large compensation amounts for victims because, in addition to the physical injury and trauma that victims suffer, they also endure long-term psychological and emotional effects. Many Lyft sexual assault victims have settled cases upwards of $1,000,000.

The value of your settlement will likely depend on the extent of your injuries and damages. For example, if you had to be hospitalized or suffered severe psychological trauma, you may be able to receive compensation for your medical bills as well as pain and suffering. You may also be able to pursue punitive damages Lyft's egregious negligence caused your assault, which could significantly increase the value of your case. Having an experienced Los Angeles Rideshare attorney on your side could considerably increase your chance of receiving maximum compensation for your losses.

Sexual Assault Information

Sexual assault refers to unwanted advances or actions carried out by a perpetrator onto a victim. In order to be characterized as sexual assault, the action must be sexual in nature. Sexual assault refers to many forms of sexual violence, but it is always a phrase that is used to describe any sexual act or activity that is done without the victim's consent. The word "assault" means that it is an intentional act that causes the victim to feel fear that they are about to be injured. Once there is actual physical arm, it is considered "battery."

Sexual harassment, on the other hand, may range from lewd comments or behavior to inappropriate touching. Rape is a type of sexual assault that involves sexual intercourse by force or other forms of sexual penetration carried out against a person without their consent. If you have been sexually assaulted, raped or sexually harassed as a passenger in a Lyft vehicle, it is important that you reach out to an experienced attorney for help.

Can I Sue Lyft?

If you or a loved one was assaulted or seriously injured in a physical attack while using Lyft, you may be able to file a lawsuit against Lyft seeking compensation for your accident. Our experienced lawyers will work with you to help you build a strong case and hold Lyft accountable for their negligence. Such a lawsuit will not only help you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost income and other monetary damages, but also help you hold a negligent corporation accountable and potentially make rideshare vehicles safer in the future.

Problems with Lyft

Like other rideshare apps, Lyft requires drivers to meet certain requirements such as holding a valid driver's license, insurance and passing a background check. However, it must be noted that this background check is not nearly as thorough as it should be. For example, the check does not disclose information further than seven years before. Often, red flags are ignored in the hiring process.

Lyft reported more than 1,800 sexual assaults in 2019. More than half of the assaults in 2019 were "non-consensual touching of a sexual body part" and another 156 involved non-consensual sexual penetration, according to the report, which also listed 10 fatal assaults from 2017 through 2019 including four in 2019.

Lyft does not have a history of punishing its drivers. Even though they have taken some drivers off the app and blocked them from using the service, such actions have only been temporary because the blocked drivers have been able to use other services after being shut out of Lyft.

Sexual Assault Injuries

Sexual assaults often result in injuries ranging from scratches and bruises to facial wounds, broken bones, organ damage and internal injuries. Additionally, victims could face severe psychological damage. Sexual assault victims may need long-term therapy because of the trauma they have suffered. Many have trouble forming normal relationships or maintaining such relationships after the assault. Many victims also experience depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?

While the statute of limitations to file a civil lawsuit in a sexual assault case is 10 years in California, there are a number of cases when that deadline might be earlier. The deadline to file a civil Lyft assault lawsuit may depend on a number of variables. If you are filing a personal injury lawsuit, there is a statute of limitations of two years in California. Regardless, the time to take action in your case is now so your attorney can help you collect critical evidence to substantiate your claim.

Getting Help with Your Lawsuit

If you or a loved one has been sexually or physically assaulted in a Lyft vehicle, please understand that you have legal rights. At the Vaziri Law Group, APC we provide competent and compassionate legal representation for injured accident victims and their families. We know that this can be a challenging time for you physically, emotionally and financially. We are here to protect your rights every step of the way. To schedule a free consultation simply fill out the form on this page, or call us at (310) 777-7540.