Dedicated Uber Sexual Assault Attorneys Serving Clients in California
In the bustling city of San Francisco, Uber stands as a popular transportation choice among its tech-savvy residents and the countless tourists it attracts. The convenience of summoning a ride with just a few taps on a smartphone has solidified Uber’s status in daily commutes, night-outs, and everything in between. However, this widespread adoption has also shone a light on critical safety issues, including distressing instances of sexual assault by some Uber drivers. Women riding in commercial rideshare vehicles are at risk for injuries from both driver negligence and driver criminal assault.
If you find yourself a victim of sexual assault by an Uber driver in San Francisco, immediate actions are crucial. Call our California Uber sexual assault attorney. For your safety and justice follow the below suggestions::
- First, ensure your immediate safety by moving to a secure location away from the perpetrator.
- Seeking medical attention is paramount, regardless of any visible physical harm.
- Reporting the incident to the police and notifying Uber through their app or customer support is a crucial step in taking action.
- Documenting every detail of the ride, the assault, and any communication with Uber is essential for any future legal actions.
California Allegations of Uber Sexual Abuse
In California, the conversation around Uber and passenger safety has been underscored by concerning statistics related to sexual assaults. A revealing safety report released by Uber highlighted that over two years, there were nearly 6,000 reports of sexual assaults ranging from non-consensual kissing to rape, across the United States, with a significant portion of these incidents occurring in California, a state known for its high usage of ride-sharing services.
This data sheds light on the critical need for enhanced safety measures and more robust background checks for drivers to protect passengers. The statistics not only highlight the prevalence of such distressing incidents but also emphasize the importance of ongoing efforts to improve safety protocols and support for victims within the ride-sharing ecosystem. If you need legal assistance, call Wlakup Law and speak with our California Uber sexual assault attorney.
Do I have a viable claim for abuse?
If you experienced behavior that you felt was inappropriate, you may have a case. There are a wide range of actions and behaviors that can constitute sexual assault. It is important to speak with an experienced rideshare assault attorney as soon as possible so that we can begin investigating what happened, secure evidence, and make sure your claim is filed within the statute of limitations. While recent changes to the law have widened the window to file a civil lawsuit in sexual assault cases with the passing of CA AB-1619, it is still important to be aware of the time limit.
340.16. (a)
In any civil action for recovery of damages suffered as a result of sexual assault, where the assault occurred on or after the plaintiff’s 18th birthday, the time for commencement of the action shall be the later of the following:
(1) Within 10 years from the date of the last act, attempted act, or assault with the intent to commit an act, of sexual assault by the defendant against the plaintiff.
(2) Within three years from the date the plaintiff discovers or reasonably should have discovered that an injury or illness resulted from an act, attempted act, or assault with the intent to commit an act, of sexual assault by the defendant against the plaintiff.
Your Legal Rights After An Uber Assault
Understanding your legal rights is an essential next step for victims of sexual assault by Uber drivers. Every victim has the right to pursue criminal charges against their assailant. Beyond the criminal aspect, victims can seek civil damages to compensate for physical, emotional, or psychological harm suffered. Throughout this process, the confidentiality and dignity of the victim are paramount, with law enforcement and legal professionals required to respect and protect the victim’s privacy and well-being.
In California, the legal framework offers additional protections to victims of sexual assault:
- The state’s statute of limitations allows for a lawsuit to be filed within 10 years of the assault or three years from the date the victim becomes aware of any resulting injuries, providing a broader window for action.
- California law permits victims to file lawsuits under pseudonyms, offering an extra layer of privacy and security.
- Furthermore, if an Uber driver had a known history of violence or offenses that Uber failed to act upon, the company could be held liable for negligent hiring, offering another avenue for victims to seek justice.
For victims navigating the aftermath of an Uber sexual assault in San Francisco, the law firm Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger can be an invaluable ally. With a proven track record in handling cases against Uber, our California Uber sexual assault attorney has expertise in this specific legal area is unmatched. They provide comprehensive legal support, from conducting thorough investigations to representing victims in court, ensuring that every aspect of the case is meticulously managed. Importantly, their services are offered on a contingency fee basis, meaning victims are not burdened with upfront legal fees and only pay if their case is successful.
Contact our California Uber Sexual Assault Attorney Today
Uber’s prominence in San Francisco comes with a significant responsibility to safeguard its passengers. Despite measures taken by the company to enhance safety, the occurrence of sexual assaults underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and improvement. For victims, understanding what to do in the immediate aftermath, knowing their legal rights in California, and securing competent legal representation are crucial steps towards healing and justice. Law firms like Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger not only facilitate this journey but also contribute to the broader effort of holding both perpetrators and negligent parties accountable, ensuring a safer environment for all Uber users. Please call (415) 981-7210.