Using rideshare services like Uber has become a routine part of life for millions of New Yorkers. But when that trust is shattered by violence—especially sexual or physical assault—the emotional and legal aftermath can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one has been assaulted by an Uber driver, you may feel scared, ashamed, or unsure of what to do next.
At The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff, we understand that these cases are deeply personal and legally complex. Known as “The Bull” for his aggressive courtroom tactics, Michael S. Lamonsoff and his team are committed to helping survivors fight back, find justice, and secure compensation. Here’s what to do if you’ve been assaulted by an Uber driver and how to protect your rights every step of the way.
Step 1: Get to a Safe Place
Your immediate safety is the top priority. If you are in danger or still in the presence of your assailant:
- Exit the vehicle as soon as it’s safe to do so.
- Call 911 or ask a bystander for help.
- Seek shelter in a public place or well-lit area if possible.
Do not worry about leaving personal belongings behind in the car. Your safety comes first.
Step 2: Call the Police and Report the Assault
It’s important to report the assault to the police immediately, even if you feel nervous or unsure. A police report:
- Creates official documentation of the crime
- Helps preserve evidence
- Triggers a potential criminal investigation
You can also request to speak with an officer of your same gender, or ask for a sexual assault response team if applicable. Filing a report does not commit you to pressing charges, but it preserves your legal options.
Step 3: Get Medical Attention
Even if you don’t have visible injuries, you should seek medical care right away, especially in cases of sexual assault. A medical exam can:
- Check for injuries and internal trauma
- Collect forensic evidence (rape kit)
- Provide important documentation for your legal case
Hospitals in New York have specially trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) who can treat you and conduct exams with care and sensitivity.
Step 4: Report the Incident to Uber
Once you are safe and have contacted law enforcement, report the incident to Uber directly through the app or by contacting their critical safety response line. Uber’s platform includes features to:
- Flag drivers for inappropriate or criminal behavior
- Disable the driver’s account during investigation
- Cooperate with law enforcement if requested
Uber may reach out for additional information, but you are not required to speak to them directly without legal counsel.
Step 5: Contact The Bull Immediately
After reporting the incident to the authorities and Uber, you should speak to Michael “The Bull” Lamonsoff, an experienced rideshare assault attorney. These cases are highly sensitive and involve multiple layers of liability:
- The Uber driver may be held criminally responsible.
- Uber may be held civilly liable if they failed to conduct proper background checks, ignored red flags, or continued to employ a dangerous driver.
- Third-party contractors or security providers may also share responsibility.
The Bull can help you understand your rights, preserve evidence, and start building a civil case to recover damages.
What Compensation Can You Pursue?
If you were assaulted by an Uber driver, you may be entitled to financial compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including hospital visits, therapy, medications)
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma
- Lost wages or loss of future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
Every case is different, but holding Uber and its drivers accountable through a civil lawsuit may help you heal and prevent future incidents.
How Does Liability Work in Uber Assault Cases?
Uber claims its drivers are “independent contractors,” not employees—but courts have challenged this in numerous lawsuits. While Uber tries to limit liability, they still owe a duty of care to passengers who use their app.
Potential liability in Uber assault cases may be based on:
- Negligent hiring or retention (e.g., failing to act on reports of past misconduct)
- Failure to screen or background check drivers
- Inadequate response to safety complaints
- Defective safety features within the app (e.g., poor tracking, lack of emergency buttons)
A seasoned attorney can help identify every possible liable party and pursue maximum damages.
Why These Cases Require Immediate Legal Action
Uber and other rideshare companies have powerful legal teams and insurance adjusters who aim to minimize payouts. They may:
- Push you into a low settlement offer
- Deny responsibility
- Delay the process hoping you'll give up
By hiring a legal team immediately, you send a message: you are not backing down. And you are not alone.
Why Choose Michael “The Bull” Lamonsoff
Michael S. Lamonsoff has over 150 years of combined legal experience on his team and more than $500 million in verdicts and settlements recovered. We handle:
- Rideshare assault and personal injury cases across NYC
- High-profile sexual assault claims against institutions and corporations
- Complex cases involving systemic negligence and third-party liability
We are aggressive, compassionate, and prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. Our team speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Call Us Today for a Confidential Consultation
If you or someone you know was assaulted by an Uber driver, do not wait. Your story matters, and you have legal rights.
Call The Law Offices of Michael S. Lamonsoff for a free, confidential consultation. You're not just hiring a lawyer. You're putting your case in the hands of a fighter. You're hiring The Bull.
