Rideshare services are marketed as a safe and convenient way to get from one place to another. Passengers trust companies like Uber and Lyft to vet their drivers, respond to safety concerns, and act quickly when problems arise. When that trust is broken and a passenger is sexually assaulted during a ride, the harm is devastating and often preventable.
At Breit Biniazan, we represent survivors of sexual assault committed by Uber and Lyft drivers in Phoenix, Arizona, and throughout the state. Our focus is not only on the actions of the driver, but on whether the rideshare company failed to act on warnings, ignored prior reports, or allowed unsafe drivers to continue transporting passengers.
We help survivors regain control and pursue accountability from powerful corporations that put profits ahead of passenger safety.
Holding Rideshare Companies Accountable for Sexual Assault in Arizona
Sexual assault involving a rideshare driver is rarely an isolated failure. Many cases reveal patterns of ignored complaints, weak background checks, or delayed responses that allowed drivers to remain active on the platform despite clear risks.
Breit Biniazan represents Arizona victims who were sexually assaulted while using rideshare services. We work to uncover what the company knew, when they knew it, and how their decisions placed passengers in danger.
Sexual Assault During Uber and Lyft Rides in Phoenix
Sexual assault connected to rideshare services can take many forms. Some incidents occur during active rides, while others happen when drivers detour, refuse to end trips, or misuse passenger information obtained through the app.
Survivors often report feeling trapped, especially when the assault occurs in a moving vehicle or unfamiliar area. Many hesitate to report the incident right away due to fear, shock, or uncertainty about how rideshare companies will respond.
Why Uber and Lyft May Share Responsibility
Uber and Lyft often argue that drivers are independent contractors, not employees, in an effort to avoid responsibility. That classification does not automatically shield these companies from liability.
Rideshare companies may be held accountable when they:
- Failed to act on prior complaints or safety reports
- Allowed drivers with concerning histories to remain active
- Used weak or outdated screening practices
- Failed to monitor driver behavior or ride data
- Delayed response after reports of misconduct
These cases often turn on what the company knew and how it responded. Breit Biniazan examines internal policies, app data, complaint histories, and safety practices to determine where accountability lies.
The Impact of Rideshare Sexual Assault on Survivors
Sexual assault during a rideshare trip can leave survivors feeling violated in a place that was supposed to be routine and safe. Many people rely on Uber or Lyft daily for work, school, or medical appointments, and the trauma can disrupt basic independence.
Survivors may experience fear of transportation, anxiety, disrupted sleep, and difficulty trusting others. Some avoid rideshare services entirely, altering daily routines and limiting mobility. A civil case cannot erase the experience, but it can help survivors regain a sense of control and obtain resources needed to move forward.
Arizona Law and Uber or Lyft Sexual Assault Claims
Arizona law allows survivors of sexual assault to pursue civil claims against parties whose negligence contributed to the harm. These cases are separate from criminal proceedings and focus on responsibility and financial recovery.
Claims may involve negligent screening, negligent retention, or failure to respond to known safety risks. Time limits apply, and rideshare companies often act quickly to protect themselves after an incident is reported.
How Breit Biniazan Approaches Rideshare Assault Cases
At Breit Biniazan, we help people facing catastrophic events regain control. Rideshare sexual assault cases often involve large corporations with extensive resources and aggressive defense strategies.
We prepare these cases thoroughly, knowing they may be forced toward early resolution or settlement for reasons outside a survivor’s control. Our mission is to remove obstacles to accountability and pursue outcomes that reflect the seriousness of what occurred.
Speak With Breit Biniazan About a Phoenix Rideshare Sexual Assault Case
If you were sexually assaulted by an Uber or Lyft driver in Phoenix, Arizona, you deserve answers and accountability from more than just the individual driver.
Contact Breit Biniazan to discuss your situation and learn how our firm fights for survivors against rideshare companies that failed to protect their passengers. We are here to help you regain control and move forward with strength and support.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uber and Lyft Sexual Assault in Phoenix
Can Uber or Lyft be held responsible for a driver’s assault?
Yes. Rideshare companies may be held accountable when their actions or inaction contributed to unsafe conditions.
What if the driver was previously reported?
Prior complaints can be powerful evidence, especially if the company failed to act or allowed the driver to continue accepting rides.
Do I need to file a police report to pursue a case?
A criminal report is not required to bring a civil claim, though it may be helpful in some cases.
Will my identity be protected?
Courts often allow steps to limit unnecessary public disclosure. Your legal team can explain available protections.