Institutional Involvement

Rideshare Companies (Uber, Lyft):
- Victims of sexual assault in rideshare vehicles may have claims against the companies for negligence in screening drivers, failing to implement adequate safety measures, or mishandling complaints.
- The concept of “vicarious liability” may come into play, where the company could be held liable for the actions of its drivers.

Churches:
- Victims of clergy abuse may have claims against the church for negligent supervision, failure to report abuse, or concealing abuse.
- Statutes of limitations for child sexual abuse cases have been extended in California, providing more opportunities for victims to seek justice.

Employers:
- Victims of workplace harassment or assault may have claims against their employer for failing to provide a safe work environment.
- Employers have a duty to investigate and address complaints of harassment or assault.

Schools:
- Schools have a duty to keep students safe. Negligent supervision, and failure to report, are ways that a school could be liable.

General Considerations:
- Institutions may attempt to shield themselves from liability by claiming they were unaware of the perpetrator’s actions.
- However, evidence of prior complaints, internal investigations, or a pattern of similar incidents can be used to establish institutional negligence.
- Confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements can cause legal complications.
- Reporting to law enforcement is very important when dealing with institutional involvement.

"The question isn't who's going to let me; it's who's going to stop me."

Ayn Rand

"Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it possibly, without claiming it consciously, she stands up for all women."

Maya Angelou

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