San Diego Amtrak Train Sexual Assault

Taking long-distance commuter rails like Amtrak can be a convenient, affordable, and sometimes essential part of travel throughout the United States. Amtrak and other cross-country trains can be a refuge for those with a fear of flying, those with children or dependents with special needs, or individuals who just want to see the country on a budget.

However, if you are sexually harassed, molested, or assaulted on Amtrak, your rights have been violated, and a failure in safety standards has occurred. Jessica Pride and our team at The Pride Law Firm understand the profound impact these incidents can have on survivors, and we are here to provide compassionate support, legal knowledge, and unwavering advocacy. 

Our team of lawyers is experienced in handling cases of sexual assault that occur on Amtrak trains or other public accommodations, such as city buses and rideshares, and we are dedicated to seeking justice on behalf of our clients.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of sexual assault on an Amtrak train, we are here to listen, support, and pursue justice on your behalf. Contact Jessica Pride at (619) 516-8166 or online for a free, fully confidential consultation. Our staff is trained to provide a safe, supportive environment that respects your boundaries and prioritizes an emotionally holistic approach to seeking justice.

“Jessica Pride's law firm has done an amazing job. I truly appreciate her ambition, her intelligence, and her work ethic. Thank you for taking my case, you did the best job, and people around the world should know what an amazing attorney you are. Thank you, Jessica Pride.”

- Carolyn K. | Client

About San Diego Amtrak Train Sexual Assault

Amtrak is a vital part of San Diego's transportation network, providing residents and visitors with convenient rail services. The Pacific Surfliner, in particular, is a key route connecting San Diego to other major cities in California.

The LOSSAN Corridor, stretching from San Diego to Los Angeles and up to San Luis Obispo, is the most heavily used state-supported Amtrak route. It operates more than 150 trains daily and serves nearly 3 million passengers each year.

Many people may assume that because Amtrak trains are public spaces, sexual assault would never happen there. However, the unfortunate truth is that sexual assault can take place anywhere, even on public transportation services. 

While specific statistics on sexual assault on trains in San Diego are not widely available, it's important to acknowledge the broader context of sexual harassment and assault in San Diego. 

According to a 2019 statewide study by the University of California, San Diego Center on Gender Equity and Health, 77% of women experience sexual harassment in a public space, including 29% on mass transit. Additionally, a survey by the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System found that 64% of respondents have experienced or witnessed harassment while using public transportation in 2024.

What Is Considered Sexual Assault On Trains in San Diego?

Sexual assault on trains and public transit refers to any non-consensual sexual contact or activity that occurs in these environments. Sexual assault encompasses a range of unwanted behaviors, which can include but are not limited to:

• Unwanted touching: This involves any form of physical contact without consent, such as groping, fondling, or intentionally touching someone's intimate body parts.
• Sexual harassment: It includes unwanted comments, gestures, or actions of a sexual nature that create a hostile or intimidating environment. This may involve catcalling, sexual advances, lewd remarks, or displaying explicit materials.
• Sexual coercion: This refers to situations where someone uses threats, manipulation, or force to pressure another person into engaging in sexual acts against their will. It can involve verbal threats, blackmail, or physical force.
• Non-consensual sexual acts: This includes any sexual activity or penetration that occurs without the explicit and voluntary consent of all parties involved. It encompasses acts such as rape, attempted rape, and other forms of sexual violence.

It's important to note that laws and definitions may vary across jurisdictions, but generally, sexual assault on trains and other public transit options (like airline travel) refers to any non-consensual sexual behavior that occurs within these settings. 

Sexual harassment or assault can happen anywhere, whether it's on a train, in a rideshare vehicle, or at an Airbnb. That’s why companies are responsible for creating a safe, heavily monitored environment for everyone. They cannot ignore the reality that these incidents can and do occur; instead, they must confront the issue head-on, taking proactive measures to prevent harm. 

Companies need to stop pretending they are immune to such occurrences and enforce stronger safety protocols. We understand that deciding to take the step toward legal action for sexual assault can be overwhelming, but your case can add the needed pressure to inspire change in these industries. When you feel ready to share your story, reach out to The Pride Law Firm online or by calling (619) 516-8166 for a respectful, compassionate consultation.

Steps After a San Diego Amtrak Train Sexual Assault

There are several immediate steps you can take to protect yourself and preserve important evidence if you have been sexually assaulted on a train or other public transportation system in San Diego, including:

• Move to a safe location away from the perpetrator if possible.
• Report the assault to Amtrak personnel or the police right away. This will help ensure your safety and that the incident is properly documented.
• Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t have any visible injuries. A healthcare provider can offer essential support, conduct a thorough examination for any physical injuries or signs of assault, and collect evidence in a sensitive and confidential manner.
• Write down everything you remember about the incident. This includes details like the time, location, what happened, and a description of the perpetrator.
• When you are ready, contact a San Diego train sexual assault lawyer to discuss your legal rights and how they can help you determine whether the public transportation company failed you.

Concerned About Speaking Up? Your Conversations With Us Are 100% Confidential

We know that talking about what happened to you can feel intimidating. In this video, Jessica Pride discusses how our firm holds confidentiality and your best interests above all else when speaking with an attorney about sensitive matters like sexual assault.

What Kind of Settlement Can a San Diego Train Sexual Assault Lawyer Help You Secure?

A lawyer experienced in Amtrak sexual assault cases can help you pursue various forms of compensation and settlements, depending on your circumstances. While specific outcomes can vary, here are some types of settlements that a lawyer can help you secure:

• Financial compensation: Your lawyer will work to seek monetary damages on your behalf. This can include reimbursement for medical expenses related to physical and mental health treatment, counseling services, lost wages or income, and future expenses resulting from the assault.
• Non-economic damages: Your attorney can help you pursue compensation for non-monetary losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and psychological trauma caused by the assault.
• Legal fees and costs: In some instances, the liable party can be ordered to pay your attorney’s fees and any other legal expenses made when you engaged a lawyer to represent you in an Amtrak assault case. This ensures you receive your settlement, and the other party is responsible for reimbursement of legal fees.
• Punitive damages: In cases where the defendant's actions were particularly egregious, a lawyer may seek punitive damages. These damages aim to punish the perpetrator and deter similar behavior in the future.
• Policy and procedural changes: In some cases, you and your lawyer may be able to effect systemic changes within Amtrak or the public transit system to prevent similar sexual assault incidents in the future. This can involve advocating for improved safety measures, enhanced training for staff, or policy reforms.

It's important to note that each case is unique, and the outcome will depend on factors such as the strength of the evidence, the extent of damages suffered, and the specific legal jurisdiction. Our lawyers will provide personalized advice and work diligently to secure a settlement on your behalf.

For example, a Martindale-Nolo study found that people who have a lawyer on their side tend to do better, with 90% securing a settlement or award, compared to about 50% for those handling things on their own. It's a reminder that having legal support can make a real difference.

Contact a Lawyer for Train Sexual Assault Today

If you suffered sexual assault on an Amtrak train in San Diego, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. When you hire an attorney, we handle the work, allowing you the time and space to heal and focus on self-care. 

Reach out to The Pride Law Firm today — we will provide compassionate guidance, strong advocacy, and the tireless pursuit of justice. Together, we can work towards making a positive difference in your life while helping prevent future incidents from harming others. You can ask us any questions you may have about your sexual assault case in a private and safe environment.

By holding Amtrak accountable, a lawsuit like yours can put pressure on the company to review and improve its policies and safety protocols. This may include improved security, installing additional surveillance measures, or implementing better procedures for reporting and addressing incidents. 

Each step taken toward justice not only helps you but also contributes to making transportation safer for everyone. Your voice can spark the change needed to create a safer environment for future passengers.

“I am privileged and honored to represent survivors of sexual assault, and I will not stop until I don’t have a job anymore.”

- Jessica Pride | Managing Partner

Why Hire Jessica Pride

With nearly two decades of experience and a proven track record of delivering justice for survivors, Jessica Pride is nationally recognized as a leading advocate in the realm of sexual assault litigation. 

We advocate for women, men, nonbinary and LGBT survivors, children, teenagers, and those in difficult circumstances like prison, rehab, or with undocumented status. Our team has extensive experience fighting sexual assault in various settings, as shown by our historic $116 million settlement for 103 survivors of sexual abuse at the Federal Correctional Institution in Dublin, California.

Your voice deserves to be heard, and justice is worth pursuing for everyone. 

Our attorneys and staff are trained in trauma-informed care and are here to support you every step of the way. We have the knowledge, experience, and commitment to seek accountability and secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at (619) 516-8166 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your power.

Proudly Representing San Diego Residents