An estimated 25% of people in Florida and across the United States use a rideshare service at least once a month. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have become popular in recent years as a way to travel at a less expensive rate than a taxi. Unfortunately, rideshare services have had problems with some drivers sexually assaulting their passengers. Thousands of cases have been reported in the past several years.
What should I do if I am sexually assaulted by a rideshare driver?
If you are sexually abused by your rideshare driver, know that it was not your fault. Call the police as soon as you are in a safe location and ask to file a police report. While you wait to talk to the police, try to make a note on your cellphone of everything you remember about the incident. Even small details can be helpful. It can be difficult to recount your ordeal to the police, but doing so is necessary. This report and the details you give will help the police take actions to begin criminal procedures against the driver.
Getting professional care
Next, seek medical help. You may have received injuries during the sexual assault. Ask the doctor about getting a SART or SANE exam. These exams collect forensic evidence of the assault for the police report. The trained nurses and doctors can provide testimony during a criminal trial. It's also important that you reach out to a professional counselor as soon as possible. Doing so can help you get the mental health care you need.
Report the incident to the rideshare service
After you receive the care you need, report the assault to the rideshare service you used. They will be able to take steps to stop the driver from driving other passengers. Both Lyft and Uber have places to report sexual assault online or via a telephone call. Though sexual assault can be traumatic, taking steps to help yourself and others after assault can help you as you begin your road to recovery.