The mile-high city of Denver boasts 300 days of sunshine every year, attracting travelers from across the globe. Tourists keep Denver ridesharing services busy, but more Uber and Lyft rides can also mean more risk for passengers. Physical assaults are not a common occurrence in rideshare vehicles, but they do happen. Attacks can have a long-lasting impact on a victim, often affecting their mental health and quality of life.
The Denver physical assault attorneys at Carabin Shaw support assault victims on their path to recovery. We pursue compensation for your physical and emotional injuries so you can focus on healing. Don’t hesitate to contact us toll-free at 800-862-1260 for a free case review. We are available 24/7 with Spanish- and English-speaking professionals available.
Frequency of Uber and/or Lyft assaults in Denver, ColoradoIn 2023, Denver averaged more than 519 assaults every month. Unfortunately, no one knows how many of those assaults occurred in rideshare vehicles. Uber and Lyft do not report assaults unless the attack leads to a fatality. Both companies have stated that while they track incidents internally, they do not make that information public.
The lack of transparency makes it difficult for rideshare users to know the risks they undertake when entering a vehicle. Passengers must count on Uber and Lyft having properly screened their drivers. Sadly, the vetting process for both companies can be inconsistent and may leave gaps that occasionally allow people with a criminal record to drive.
Assault in Colorado: What You Need to KnowColorado defines assault as unlawfully causing bodily injury to another person. The state has three degrees of assault:
Assault in the First DegreeThe person who commits assault does so intending to cause serious bodily injury or disfigure another person using a deadly weapon. First-degree assault is a class 3 felony, often resulting in jail time (up to 32 years) and fines.
Assault in the Second DegreeSecond-degree assault intentionally causes serious bodily injury with or without a weapon or drugging someone. It is a class 4 felony with possible prison time (up to 16 years) and fines.
Assault in the Third DegreeThese assaults cause non-serious bodily injury with or without a weapon. Third-degree assault is a class 1 misdemeanor but can still lead to up to 18 months in jail and fines.
Understanding state law is a healthy step in your Denver rideshare assault recovery process. Your attorney will lead you through the criminal penalties your assailant might face. In addition, you may file a civil lawsuit to seek monetary damages for your injuries and other losses.
Navigating the Aftermath of a Denver Rideshare AssaultAn attack can leave Denver rideshare assault victims struggling with an overwhelming rush of emotions, ranging from fear to fury. You may have difficulty concentrating as you think continually about the attack. You may feel anxious about leaving your home or even guilty that you may have contributed to the attack. These feelings are all normal and often improve with time.
However, some victims may find their symptoms continue and start to interfere with daily life. Signs you may need additional support might include:
You may also experience physical symptoms after an assault, such as headaches, digestive issues, or heart palpitations. If left unchecked, your symptoms could progress to depression, substance use, or suicidal thoughts. Now is a critical time to reach out for professional support to learn how to recover from your trauma.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today To Get Compensation & Justice - Free Case Review at Carabin Shaw!Assault victims may need extended time off work after the attack, and many seek professional counseling to work through their trauma. A personal injury lawyer in Denver CO can help you pursue compensation to cover bills and pay for your medical and mental health treatment during your recovery.
Carabin Shaw has helped hundreds of victims like you, and reviews from previous clients attest to our commitment to providing support and maximizing compensation. We offer our services on a contingency-fee basis, so you don’t pay anything until you receive your settlement. Contact a member of our team today at 800-862-1260.
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