CLERMONT, FLORIDA – A Florida woman, Tabatha Means, has filed a lawsuit against ride-share company Lyft, alleging that she was sexually assaulted by one of their drivers in 2019. Means claims that the driver followed her into her home and raped her, resulting in a pregnancy and the premature birth of her son, who spent almost a month in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, accuses Lyft of negligence, breach of contract, and strict product liability, among other claims. Means is seeking damages in excess of $75,000 for the alleged incident.
According to the lawsuit, Means scheduled the Lyft ride through the app after a night of drinking. The driver reportedly made inappropriate comments and advances during the ride, and upon arriving at her destination, he followed her into her home and assaulted her.
Following the attack, Means discovered she was pregnant and later confirmed through a DNA test that the Lyft driver was the father of her son. Means has spoken out about the trauma she continues to endure, expressing her struggle to reconcile her emotions about her youngest son, who is a reminder of the most traumatic time in her life.
Lyft has denied the allegations, stating that the incident did not take place on the Lyft platform. However, Means’ attorney insists that the trip was indeed booked through the Lyft app, contradicting the company’s claims.
The lawsuit sheds light on the safety measures and responsibility of ride-share companies in ensuring the security of their customers. It also highlights the devastating impact of sexual assault on the victims and their families, as well as the ongoing legal battles faced by survivors seeking justice.