Rideshare services have become a common form of transportation, but they are not without risks. There have, unfortunately, been many cases of assault at the hands of rideshare drivers, so it is important to know the full extent of your legal options if you experience this scenario.
If a rideshare driver assaults a passenger, multiple parties may be responsible for the harm caused. Understanding who may be liable will help you seek full compensation.
The rideshare driver may be directly liable
The driver who commits the assault is typically the first party you will hold responsible. California law allows injured people to seek compensation for physical injuries, emotional distress and other damages caused by the assault. A civil lawsuit against the driver may result in financial recovery for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
The rideshare company may share responsibility
Rideshare companies operating in California have a legal duty to ensure passenger safety. If a rideshare company fails to conduct thorough background checks or ignores prior complaints, it may be liable for a driver’s misconduct. Companies may also bear responsibility if their policies create unsafe conditions.
Third parties may also be liable
In some cases, other parties may share responsibility. For example, if a property owner fails to provide adequate lighting or security where the assault occurs, the property owner may be at fault for these unsafe conditions. Additionally, third-party contractors handling background checks may be responsible if they overlook dangerous information about a driver’s history.
Pursuing all liable parties increases potential compensation
Seeking compensation from every responsible party improves the chances of covering all your losses. Assault cases often result in significant physical, emotional and financial harm. Pursuing multiple parties helps ensure full financial recovery, especially if the rideshare driver lacks the resources to pay damages.
When pursuing a rideshare assault case, understanding who may be liable under California law can make a significant difference. Holding all parties accountable is a necessary step toward recovering the compensation you need for a full and fair recovery.