The Scranton Uber sexual assault attorneys at Munley Law are guided by a core principle: survivors deserve justice, accountability, and unwavering advocacy. When a rideshare driver violates your trust, we step in immediately to protect your rights and pursue full compensation under Pennsylvania law. For almost 70 years, our family-run firm has represented injury victims across Northeastern Pennsylvania with integrity and proven results.
When sexual assault occurs during an Uber ride, both the driver and the company may bear responsibility. Our Scranton Uber accident lawyers conduct in-depth investigations into background checks, prior complaints, corporate policies, and platform safety failures. We prepare every case for trial while pursuing strategic settlements when appropriate.
Survivors in Scranton, Lackawanna County, and throughout Pennsylvania turn to Munley Law because we combine courtroom strength with personal compassion. We handle the legal burden so you can focus on healing. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Contact an Uber Accident Lawyer at Munley Law
Call Us At 844-686-5397 Why Choose Munley Law After an Uber Sexual Assault?
Choosing a law firm is one of the most important decisions you will make after an assault. At Munley Law, we stand apart for our experience, recognition, and proven results.
Since 1959, we have built a family tradition of advocacy across Pennsylvania, earning a reputation based on integrity, dedication, and meaningful outcomes for our clients. That commitment is matched by our national recognition for excellence in complex personal injury litigation. Our partners are members of respected organizations such as the Litigation Counsel of America, the American Board of Trial Advocates, and the International Society of Barristers—distinctions that reflect the highest standards of trial advocacy.
Our results speak for themselves. We have secured more than $1 billion in verdicts and settlements and are known for taking on powerful corporations and insurance companies—and winning. Our attorneys are consistently recognized in Best Lawyers in America and Pennsylvania Super Lawyers, and we have earned top-tier ratings from organizations such as Martindale-Hubbell.
Above all, we promise to treat every client with dignity, communicate openly and honestly, and commit every resource necessary to their case. We work on a contingency basis, which means we never collect a fee unless we win compensation for you.
Our office is located near downtown Scranton, within reach of clients across Northeastern Pennsylvania. Whether your case arises from an assault, a crash, or another form of negligence, we are prepared to represent you.
How Can Our Scranton Uber Sexual Assault Attorneys Help You Seek Justice?
Choosing to pursue a civil case against Uber or one of its drivers requires a law firm with experience and courage. Our Scranton Uber sexual assault attorneys have decades of experience confronting large corporations, insurance companies, and negligent actors who try to avoid responsibility. We investigate Uber’s safety practices in depth, including:
- The thoroughness of their background checks
- How it handles complaints against drivers
- Whether Uber ignored patterns of misconduct
- The company’s responsibility for failing to remove dangerous drivers from its platform
When Uber profits from millions of rides, it cannot ignore passenger safety. We hold both the individual offender and the corporation accountable whenever their negligence contributes to an assault.
How Common Are Uber Sexual Assault Cases in Scranton and Nationwide?
Uber and other rideshare services operate daily throughout Lackawanna County, providing transportation for residents, students, and visitors. While the majority of rides are uneventful, Uber’s own safety reports confirm that sexual assault within its platform is a widespread issue.
Survivors often work with the police department to make an initial report, and the district attorney’s office may open a criminal investigation. This process is challenging to manage alone, especially while coping with the physical and emotional trauma of the assault.
What Legally Constitutes Sexual Assault During an Uber Ride?
Sexual assault in a rideshare setting can take many forms, ranging from unwanted touching or groping to sexual comments or harassment that escalate into physical contact. It may involve forcing or coercing sexual acts, taking advantage of a passenger who is intoxicated or asleep, or any other form of non-consensual sexual activity.
Even if a survivor chooses not to file criminal charges, or if criminal charges do not result in a conviction, they may still pursue and succeed in a civil case.
What Should You Do Immediately After an Uber Driver Sexually Assaults You?
If you are sexually assaulted during an Uber ride, taking immediate steps can protect your safety, preserve evidence, and strengthen both criminal and civil cases.
- Get to safety immediately. Exit the vehicle and move to a secure location.
- Call 911 and report the assault to the Scranton Police Department.
- Seek medical care without delay, both for your health and to document evidence.
- Preserve evidence, such as ride receipts, screenshots, messages, and clothing.
- Contact an attorney before speaking to Uber representatives or insurance companies.
- Report the incident to Uber using its in-app reporting system.
Your health and safety come first, but legal protection should follow quickly to preserve your rights.
What Does an Uber and Lyft Assault Attorney in Scranton Do?
Uber may be the dominant rideshare platform, but individuals also widely use Lyft throughout Pennsylvania. Both companies have faced lawsuits nationwide involving sexual assaults by drivers. A seasoned Uber and Lyft assault attorney in Scranton can pursue claims against either service. These companies may be negligent if they:
- Approve drivers without adequate background checks
- Fail to investigate sexual misconduct complaints
- Keep drivers on the platform after multiple reports
- Neglect to provide effective in-app safety tools
By bringing civil claims, survivors seek justice for themselves and push rideshare corporations to improve safety measures.
How Can Uber Be Held Liable for a Driver’s Sexual Assault?
Uber markets itself as a technology platform, distancing itself from traditional employer responsibilities. However, negligence can arise when the company fails to run thorough criminal and driving background checks, ignores complaints and allows drivers with concerning histories to continue working, or lacks sufficient monitoring and follow-up systems. Negligence may also be present when Uber promotes its rides as “safe” without meeting reasonable safety standards to support that claim.
Courts across the country are increasingly scrutinizing Uber’s role in enabling misconduct by its drivers. As a result, survivors in Scranton may have strong grounds for holding the company accountable.
Who Can File an Uber Assault Lawsuit?
Not every case looks the same, but several groups may bring Uber assault claims:
Passengers: Anyone assaulted while riding in an Uber can file a lawsuit.
Minors: Parents or guardians can file on behalf of underage survivors.
Families: In some instances, family members may bring claims for loss of support or companionship.
Third parties: Individuals harmed during pickup or drop-off situations may also have claims.
Each situation is unique, but if you or a loved one has been harmed in connection with an Uber ride, you may have the right to pursue legal action. Our attorneys can evaluate your circumstances and determine the most effective way to move forward.
“Honoring those who came before us, Munley Law proudly continues our family tradition of innovation, caring, and integrity.”
Caroline Munley
What Is the Legal Process for an Uber Sexual Assault Case in Scranton?
Working with experienced Scranton Uber sexual assault lawyers provides survivors with a clear plan for pursuing justice. Here is how the legal path typically unfolds:
- Police involvement: The first step is reporting to the Scranton Police Department or, if the assault occurred near campus, to the University of Scranton security. Law enforcement gathers evidence and begins a criminal investigation.
- District attorney proceedings: The Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office decides whether to prosecute the offender criminally. This process punishes the wrongdoer but does not provide compensation to the survivor.
- Civil claims: Survivors can file lawsuits against both the driver and Uber to recover damages. Civil cases often proceed in the Lackawanna County courts.
- Settlement or trial: Some cases resolve through negotiation. Others require a jury to decide.
At Munley Law, we manage the civil side of the process so you can focus on recovery while cooperating with criminal prosecutors.
Steps in an Uber Sexual Assault Lawsuit
An Uber assault lawsuit follows a series of key stages, each designed to build your case and move it toward resolution in or out of court.
- Consultation: Meet with a Munley Law attorney to review your case.
- Investigation: We gather police reports, medical records, app data, and witness testimony.
- Filing the complaint: We initiate a civil lawsuit in the Lackawanna County courts or another jurisdiction.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence and take sworn testimony.
- Settlement negotiations: Many cases resolve outside of trial.
- Trial: If necessary, we present your case before a jury.
At each step, we keep you informed and involved, reflecting our commitment to treat every client with dignity and respect.
How Long Do You Have to File an Uber Sexual Assault Lawsuit in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for civil assault claims is generally two years from the date of the assault. Some exceptions exist. Survivors who were minors at the time of the assault may have longer to file. Courts may extend deadlines for survivors who could not come forward earlier due to trauma. Acting quickly allows your attorney to gather fresh evidence and build a stronger case.
Long-Term Effects of Sexual Assault
Survivors often live with impacts that extend far beyond the day of the incident. Many experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can involve flashbacks, nightmares, and a constant state of hypervigilance. Depression and anxiety are also common, causing emotional distress that interferes with daily routines and overall quality of life. These mental health challenges frequently spill into school or work, making it difficult to concentrate, attend classes consistently, or maintain steady employment.
Sexual assault can also strain personal relationships. Survivors may struggle with trust, intimacy, or emotional closeness, leading to tension with partners, family members, or friends. In addition to emotional effects, many experience physical symptoms linked to trauma, such as sleep disturbances, headaches, and other stress-related conditions.
Civil damages can help fund the therapy, treatment, and supportive resources necessary to promote healing and long-term recovery.
What Damages Can a Scranton Uber Sexual Assault Lawyer Help You Recover?
Hiring a sexual assault lawyer in Scranton can open the door to compensation that helps restore stability and provide for long-term needs. Survivors may be entitled to:
- Medical treatment: This includes emergency care, follow-up visits, and prescriptions.
- Counseling and therapy: Trauma from sexual assault often requires years of professional support.
- Lost wages: Many survivors miss work due to emotional or physical recovery.
- Reduced earning potential: In some cases, survivors cannot return to the same career path.
- Pain and suffering: Courts recognize the devastating emotional toll of sexual assault.
- Punitive damages: The court awards punitive damages to punish the offender and deter future misconduct in cases involving egregious conduct.
Our firm has achieved some of the largest settlements and verdicts in Pennsylvania, giving survivors confidence that we can secure meaningful results.
Uber Sexual Assault Statistics
Uber publishes periodic U.S. Safety Reports, and the data is sobering. Between 2021 and 2022, Uber documented over 2,700 sexual assaults that occurred during rides. These assaults included unwanted touching, non-consensual kissing, attempted rape, and rape.
While Uber points to safety features in its app, the numbers show that many passengers remain vulnerable. Survivors in Scranton are not isolated. They are part of a national problem that requires accountability from billion-dollar companies.
Safety Tips to Reduce Risk in Uber Rides
No safety measure guarantees protection, but these steps can reduce risk:
- Confirm the driver’s name, photo, and license plate before entering.
- Share trip details with a friend or family member.
- Sit in the back seat for easier exit.
- Keep personal items like phones easily accessible.
- Trust your instincts. End the ride if you feel unsafe.
The responsibility for misconduct always lies with the perpetrator, but taking precautions can give you more control.
FAQs About Uber Sexual Assault Cases
Can I File a Civil Lawsuit If the Driver Was Not Charged with a Crime?
Yes. A civil lawsuit for damages is separate from a criminal case. The legal standards are different. A civil case can proceed even if the Scranton Police Department and Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office do not file criminal charges or if the person is acquitted.
Can Uber Be Held Responsible for an Assault by a Driver?
Yes, in some cases. If Uber failed in screening, monitoring, or responding to prior complaints, it may share liability. Our attorneys analyze corporate policies and records to determine accountability.
What if the Assault Occurred Outside Scranton?
Our firm represents clients across Northeastern Pennsylvania, and we handle cases in surrounding counties. We can file claims in the appropriate venue, whether that is the Lackawanna County courts or another jurisdiction.
Will I Have to Testify in Court?
Not all cases go to trial. Many resolve through settlements. If testimony is required, we prepare you thoroughly and provide support throughout the process.
Can I Sue Uber Directly, or Only the Driver?
In many cases, both the driver and Uber may be named defendants. While Uber classifies drivers as independent contractors, courts increasingly examine whether the company failed to screen, supervise, or respond to complaints. Corporate negligence can create liability beyond the individual offender.
What Evidence Strengthens an Uber Sexual Assault Lawsuit?
Key evidence may include ride data, GPS logs, in-app communications, surveillance footage, medical records, police reports, and witness statements. Uber retains digital trip records that can establish driver identity, route deviations, and timing. Early legal intervention helps preserve this critical data.
Does Uber Provide Insurance Coverage for Assault Claims?
Uber maintains commercial liability insurance coverage during active rides. However, insurance disputes often arise regarding the scope of coverage and responsibility. Legal representation insurers do not minimize or deny valid claims.
Can I Remain Anonymous if I File a Lawsuit?
Courts sometimes allow survivors of sexual assault to proceed under pseudonyms to protect privacy. We routinely request protective measures to safeguard sensitive information. Your dignity and confidentiality are priorities throughout the process.
What if I was Intoxicated During the Ride?
Intoxication does not equal consent. Pennsylvania law recognizes that a person who is impaired can not legally consent to sexual activity. Assault remains unlawful regardless of alcohol consumption.
Will Uber Try to Force Arbitration?
Uber’s terms of service have included arbitration clauses in the past. However, Uber has publicly stated that it will not require mandatory arbitration for individual sexual assault claims. Legal review of the applicable agreement is essential.
Contact Munley Law for Help Getting Justice After an Uber Sexual Assault
Rideshare assaults devastate survivors and their families, but the law provides a path toward accountability and recovery. Whether you are a student at the University of Scranton, a resident commuting from nearby towns, or a visitor exploring downtown Scranton, you deserve to feel safe when using Uber or Lyft.
At Munley Law, our Scranton Uber sexual assault attorneys combine decades of trial experience with a commitment to client care. We are ready to meet with you, listen to your story, and take legal action against those responsible. Contact Munley Law today for a free and confidential consultation.
Caroline Munley
Caroline Munley is a board-certified workers’ compensation specialist. Since 2018, she’s been listed in Best Lawyers in America (Personal Injury Plaintiffs; Workers’ Compensation Claimants, Northeastern PA), Lawdragon, and has been a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer since 2022. A member of the International Society of Barristers, Caroline has won millions of dollars for car accident, commercial truck crash, and workplace injury victims.
