Arvada is among the fastest growing cities, not just in Colorado, but in the country. According to the Arvada Visitors Center, “A highly educated workforce, low crime rate and excellent quality of life (where outdoor adventures abound!) have all contributed to the popularity of Colorado's 8th largest city.”
However, one of the downsides of continuing growth is traffic, increasing commuting times, and car accidents. Uber and Lyft may avoid the need to use a car for short trips but they are just as vulnerable to traffic and traffic accidents as other vehicles. Since rideshare drivers are required to use their phones as part of the service, they may even be more distracted than other drivers.
Rideshares are still relatively new and passengers and other drivers may not be sure who is liable when a Lyft or Uber driver is involved in an accident. Even the rideshare driver may not know the answer.
If you were injured in an accident while using a ride-share service, talk to a Colorado rideshare lawyer about your rights. The attorneys at accidentdenver.com can investigate your case and work to get you the maximum compensation after an injury accident in Arvada, Denver, Boulder, or anywhere in Colorado. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Rideshare and Accident Statistics in Arvada
Many Coloradans are increasingly using alternatives to driving, including the new RTD Gold Line, which connects Arvada to Denver. Unfortunately, public transit cannot connect everything or operate at any time of day. Arvada has 125 miles of off-street bikeways but biking is not for everyone. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft can be a great alternative for many residents.
According to a study by the University of Chicago and Rice University, “The arrival of ridesharing is associated with an increase of 2-3% in the number of motor vehicle fatalities and fatal accidents. This increase is not only for vehicle occupants, but also for pedestrians.”
In 2019, there were 3 people fatally killed in 3 auto accidents in Arvada. In 2018, there were 5 fatal accidents in Arvada.
Lyft or Uber for a Night Out
A lot of the restaurant and bar options in Arvada are centered around Olde Town, including breweries like New Image or Denver Beer Co.'s tap room. The proximity to this historic part of town and entertainment district makes it a short trip from most places in Arvada. However, even if it is a short drive, you should not attempt any distance if you've had too much to drink.
Uber and Lyft are good options for a night out without worrying about drunk driving. However, car accidents, pedestrian accidents, and bike accidents are always a risk, even if you are being responsible. A Lyft or Uber passenger could be hit by a drunk driver in another vehicle. Alternatively, a pedestrian walking across an intersection could be hit by a Lyft or Uber driver who is busy looking for their passenger instead of watching the road. Even a Lyft or Uber driver themselves may also be the victim of an injury accident involving a drunk driver.
Medical Care After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Arvada
After any car accident, you should check to make sure you are safe and then check on others. If the vehicle is in a dangerous location (like the middle of the highway), try and find your way to a safer location. If anyone is injured, call 9-1-1 for help. In an injury accident, paramedics, the fire department, and emergency services can respond to provide medical aid and transport any injury victims to the hospital.
There are a few emergency rooms in and around Arvada, depending on the location of the accident, and the capacity of the emergency department (ED) at the time. Arvada emergency medical services may include:
- UCHealth Emergency Room Arvada
- Centura Health Emergency & Urgent Care Arvada
- Lutheran Medical Center ER in Wheat Ridge
Not Sure You Need Medical Help?
Do not just brush off a car accident. Even a low speed accident can cause injury to soft tissue and lead to further injury. If there is any chance you may be injured, contact your doctor, or visit urgent care for help. Many head, neck, and back injuries are difficult to diagnose immediately after an accident. They may take time to develop, which can lead to pain, limited movement, or permanent damage if left untreated.
Reporting a Rideshare Accident in Arvada
In a minor fender bender, you may not need to call police and can file an accident report online. However, in certain instances, you should call 9-1-1 for police to respond. This includes:
- Crashes with injuries.
- Crashes where drugs or alcohol are suspected.
- Hit and run crashes where follow-up leads are available.
- Crashes where disabled cars are blocking traffic.
- Crashes involving city or other governmental vehicles.
The law enforcement department that will investigate the accident and respond to an emergency call may depend on where the accident occurred. The responding officers may include:
Even if you are involved in a minor traffic accident, you still need to report the crash. The drivers involved in an auto accident should exchange the following information:
- Name, address and phone number
- Driver's license information
- Vehicle license plate number
- Make and model of the car
- Insurance information
- Time and location of the accident
Under Colorado Statute 42-4-1606, all motor vehicle accidents must be reported. If the police do not respond to the accident, you can file an accident report within 30 days using the CSP online system. This is for accidents where:
- An accident alert was in effect at the time the accident occurred;
- A hit and run accident occurs on private property and there is no suspect information;
- Drivers have exchanged information and left the scene; or,
- A minor accident occurred on private property.
Injured After a Lyft or Uber Ride in Arvada
If you were injured in a Lyft or Uber accident in Arvada, contact accidentdenver.com. Our experienced rideshare accident attorneys will fight to get the maximum compensation available for your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation.