LAFAYETTE PARISH – Authorities have arrested Denise Thomas, 37, for allegedly kidnapping a Lyft driver at gunpoint during a ride Monday night. According to police reports, the incident began when the driver picked up Thomas and a child from a gas station on North University Avenue. When most people think of rideshare accidents, they think of car crashes, but there are many things that can go wrong when letting someone you don’t know in your vehicle, even if you’re an Uber driver. If you have suffered harm as a rideshare driver or passenger, a Baton Rouge Uber accident lawyer can help you understand your rights.
The driver explained that he handed Thomas his phone to input the destination, which was in Ossun, west of their location. However, as the vehicle headed east along Pont Des Mouton Road, Thomas reportedly became agitated, claiming they were going in the wrong direction.
The driver told police that Thomas then allegedly pulled out a handgun and demanded to be taken to her home. Fearing for his safety, the driver said he attempted to disarm Thomas but was unsuccessful. In a desperate move, he intentionally crashed his car into a ditch near Acadiana Hills Lane, hoping to escape the situation.
The driver managed to flag down passersby and was taken to a phone, from which he contacted police at a nearby Buffalo Wild Wings across the interstate. When officers arrived at the crash site, no one was found inside the vehicle. Thomas was later apprehended and booked on charges of aggravated kidnapping. The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing to piece together the details of the incident.
Authorities have not released information regarding the child’s involvement or condition. Updates on the case are expected as the investigation progresses.
How A Rideshare Driver Can Help Drivers After An Incident Or Accident
Rideshare drivers face unique legal and financial challenges following an incident or accident. Whether dealing with injuries, damages, or false allegations, a rideshare lawyer provides essential support to help victims deal with the aftermath.
Accidents involving rideshare vehicles often raise questions about who is responsible—whether it’s the driver, the other party, or even the rideshare company. A lawyer evaluates the circumstances to clarify liability and protect the driver from unjust claims. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage, but the specifics depend on whether the driver was actively transporting a passenger, en route to a pickup, or offline. A lawyer helps drivers file claims, ensuring they receive proper compensation for damages or injuries.
Drivers sometimes face false accusations, such as negligence or criminal behavior. A rideshare lawyer gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and builds a strong defense to protect the driver’s reputation and livelihood. If the incident involves disputes over damages or injuries, a lawyer can negotiate settlements with other parties or insurance providers, aiming to avoid lengthy court proceedings.
For cases that escalate to litigation, a rideshare lawyer offers courtroom representation, ensuring the driver’s rights are upheld. In the days and weeks following a rideshare incident, the help of an attorney can prove invaluable in ensuring that your interests are protected and you get justice. Contact Cashio Injury Attorneys, LLC, today for a free consultation about your rideshare accident or incident.