Over 99% of Lyft rides had no reported safety incidents, the study reports.
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Between 2017 and 2019, Lyft received reports of over 4,000 instances of sexual assault on its ride-hailing platform, according to data in the company’s safety report. The incidents were reported directly to Lyft, brought to attention through law enforcement, or identified through proactive investigation.
According to data in the report, sexual assault reports increased from 1,096 in 2017 to 1,255 in 2018 to 1,807 in 2019. However, the report indicated that overall incident rate (between 2017 and 2019) dropped 19% because bookings increased at a higher rate during that time.
In addition to sexual assault instances, the safety report included reported instances of motor vehicle fatalities and fatal physical assaults.
From 2017 to 2019, Lyft said that over 99% of its trips occurred without any reported safety incident. The safety incidents that occurred in this report accounted for 0.0002% of all trips.
Lyft said that it has invested in safety features, puts drivers through extensive background checks, and has consulted with sexual assault experts.
“In putting the safety of its community members as its top priority, Lyft takes all reported incidents seriously and thoroughly investigates each one,” said Jennifer Brandenburger, Lyft’s head of policy development and research. “Lyft’s Safety Specialists are trained to approach each case with respect and care. Doing so helps protect drivers and riders and makes the Lyft community safer for all.”