Rideshare Safety and the Hidden Toll of Sexual Assault on Mental Health

Hopping into a rideshare after a long night out should be the safest and easiest way to get home. But for some Cal Poly students, that trust was shattered. According to Mustang News, two students testified against Angel Munoz Quintana, a former university custodian accused of pretending to be a rideshare driver to lure students into his car. The allegations are deeply unsettling, and they highlight an unfortunate reality: not every driver has good intentions. For survivors of sexual assault, the impact doesn’t end when the ride is over—it lingers in ways that can affect mental health for years to come.

Sexual assault isn’t just about the moment it happens. It’s about the anxiety that creeps in every time you call a Lyft, the hyper-awareness in crowded spaces, the sleepless nights replaying what-ifs in your head. Survivors often struggle with PTSD, depression, and trust issues that make it hard to feel safe even in everyday situations. And while stories like this one make headlines, what doesn’t get talked about enough is the emotional toll that follows—the way it changes how you move through the world.

That’s why it’s so important to look out for each other. Something as simple as checking that your friend gets into the right car or sharing your ride details with someone you trust can make a difference. And if you ever feel uncomfortable in a ride, trust that instinct. Your safety is worth more than an awkward conversation or a canceled trip. No one should have to second-guess their safety just for trying to get home. For survivors, healing isn’t easy, but therapy can help process trauma, rebuild trust, and regain a sense of control. Whether it’s through counseling, support groups, or just talking to someone who understands, no one has to navigate the aftermath alone.