If an Uber driver assaulted you, sexually or otherwise, you have every right to report what happened and hold them accountable. No one expects to be put in that position during what should have been a routine ride. But when it happens, you deserve to know exactly what to do and who can help.
This guide walks you through each step of reporting the assault, what to expect from Uber’s process, and how an attorney can help you take legal action if needed.
Step 1: Make Sure You’re Safe
The very first step is your immediate safety. If the incident is still unfolding, exit the vehicle if it is safe to do so, or call 911. Law enforcement can secure the area, intervene if the threat persists, and begin documenting the incident. Your safety is paramount; everything else, such as reporting, documentation, and legal strategy, comes afterward.
Once you’re out of danger, it’s critical to preserve potential evidence. The Uber app stores important details such as the driver’s name, photograph, license plate, trip route, and timestamps. Avoid deleting messages, ride history, or notifications, as these digital records often play a key role in criminal investigations and civil claims.
Step 2: Report the Assault to the Police
Even though it can be painful to talk about the assault, filing a police report is one of the most important things you can do. Law enforcement can document what happened, gather evidence, and start a criminal investigation. It also creates an official record that may help if you decide to pursue a civil case later.
When you speak with officers, give them as many details as you can — the driver’s name, what happened, where it took place, the time, and whether anyone saw or heard anything. If you noticed that there were cameras nearby (for example, outside a building or in the vehicle), mention that too.
Step 3: Report the Incident to Uber
Once you are safe and have notified the police, you should also report what happened directly to Uber. The company has a dedicated process for serious safety incidents, including sexual assault or physical attacks.
Here is how to do it:
- Open your Uber app and go to “Your Trips.”
- Select the trip in question.
- Tap “Help” then “Report a serious incident involving a driver.”
- Write what happened in your own words.
If you would rather speak to someone, Uber has a 24/7 Critical Safety Line that connects you with trained specialists. You can access it by going to Safety, Report safety issue, Call Uber’s Safety Line.
After you report, Uber’s safety team will reach out for more information. In most cases, they will temporarily suspend or deactivate the driver while the investigation is ongoing.
Step 4: Save Any Evidence You Can
In situations like this, documentation matters. It can be difficult to think clearly after an assault, but saving evidence now can protect you later.
Keep or record:
- Screenshots of the ride confirmation, receipt, and any messages
- Notes about what happened right after it occurred
- Medical records or photos of injuries
- The police report number and contact info for the officer who took it
- Names or contact details of anyone who witnessed the event
If your clothing was torn or you have visible injuries, preserve those items as they can serve as physical evidence.
Step 5: Speak With an Uber Assault Lawyer
Uber encourages riders to report incidents, but remember that the company’s main goal is to protect its brand and minimize liability. They are not your advocate.
That is where having your own legal representation makes a difference. Attorneys at D. Miller & Associates, PLLC, can investigate, collect evidence, and communicate with Uber so you can focus on recovery while knowing the legal process is moving forward. Depending on your case, we may pursue compensation for:
- Medical care and therapy costs
- Lost wages or loss of earning ability
- Emotional trauma and pain and suffering
- Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)
An attorney can also investigate whether Uber’s actions, or inaction, played a role. For example, did they ignore previous complaints about the driver? Was the driver properly vetted during their background check? If Uber failed to keep passengers safe, they could be held legally responsible, too.
Get Legal Help After an Uber Accident
Being assaulted during a ride can shatter your sense of security. Reporting the incident is a concrete step toward reclaiming control. It starts the legal process, ensures accountability, and sets the stage for recovery.
At D. Miller & Associates, PLLC, we represent survivors of Uber and Lyft assaults throughout Texas and across the country. Our team handles these cases with compassion and resolve, fighting to hold negligent drivers and companies accountable.
Speak to an Uber sexual assault lawyer as soon as possible. Your consultation is free and confidential. There are no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
