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Rhode Island Local Accident Resources

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Charities That Local Accident Reports Supports

Rhode Island Local Accident Resources

Did Someone You Love Die in a Rhode Island Car Accident Today?

Has someone close to you recently been a victim of a fatal car accident caused by someone else’s negligence? You don’t need to bear the burden alone. Our team of Rhode Island wrongful death lawyers is here to help you along your path to justice. Contact us today for a free consultation. If you or someone you care about has experienced the tragic loss of a loved one in a car accident in Rhode Island, the journey toward healing can be incredibly challenging and painful. The aftermath of such a devastating event often leaves deep emotional scars for those left behind, as well as the burden of unexpected medical expenses and insurance issues. You may be grappling with feelings of confusion and grief, and it’s important to know that you’re not alone in this experience. If the circumstances of the accident involved negligence, DUI, or other criminal activities, you might find yourself seeking legal assistance to navigate these complex matters. Remember, there are resources available to support you through each step of this difficult process, helping you find a path toward recovery and peace during this heart-wrenching time.
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If You Have Lost Income as the Result of a Catastrophic Accident

If your ability to generate income for you or your loved ones has been impacted by a wrongful death accident, you can turn to multiple resources that will help you receive financial aid and support:

  • Social Security Disability– Resources for Rhode Island residents suffering from a severe impairment or potentially life-threatening personal injuries. This may apply if you were also injured in an accident that took your loved one.
  • Supplemental Security Income – Resources for adult and juvenile victims who do not possess adequate resources for financial aid in the State of Rhode Island.
  • Rhode Island Bar Association – For residents of Rhode Island seeking the representation and assistance of a professional lawyer specializing in car accidents, personal injuries, wrongful deaths, and more.

Need help with requesting an official copy of the incident police report?

For those who sustained injuries or passed away in a Rhode Island car accident and need a copy of the police report, requests can be sent in via U.S. Mail with a $15 money order or certified check payable to The State of Rhode Island. You can also contact one of our local personal injury attorneys, who will gladly obtain a free copy of your police incident report. If you or someone you love is having trouble receiving a copy of the police report following an accident, contact our office so we can help you get a complimentary copy as soon as possible.

If You Require Emotional or Psychological Counseling or Additional Therapy

Accidents not only inflict terrible injuries on the body but can also leave a lasting impact on victims and those around them. If you require emotional support or counseling to cope with your experience losing someone in a catastrophic vehicular accident, be sure to visit the links below:

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If You Require Financial Aid for Incidents Resulting from Criminal Activity

You may require additional help for fees related to legal assistance and/or medical bills. If this is the case, be sure to consider the Rhode Island Crime Victim Compensation Program. Sponsored by the Office of the Rhode Island General Treasurer, this program provides resources for victims of accidents caused by criminal activity. You can visit links to fill out an official application and view rules and regulations.

If You or a Loved One Were the Victims of an Accident Caused by DUI

Drunk driving is a terrible offense that can result in severe damage to innocent victims, their families, and friends. As reinforced by state law, the Rhode Island DMV has set the limits of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at 0.08% for adults (ages 21 and older). Meanwhile, young adults and juveniles (younger than 21 years) with a BAC between 0.02% and 0.08% can be charged with DUI. Currently, Rhode Island ranks 45th among the states with severe problems related to drunk driving incidents. If you, a loved one, or a friend have been victimized by a DUI incident and require more in-depth support, check out the following resource:

  • Rhode Island MADD – Mothers Against Drunk Driving seeks to provide endless support for victims of drunk driving incidents in the State of Rhode Island. To contact Rhode Island MADD, call the Providence office at (401) 421.0800 or use the directory to find your local department.

Accident Prevention Services in Rhode Island

In recent years, the State of Rhode Island has established tactics for preventing unfortunate motor vehicle accidents and resulting fatalities.

  • Rhode Island Office of Highway Safety – Sponsored by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, this group is responsible for improving highway safety and protecting the lives of motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Resources include videos about the Ripple Effect (drunk driving), occupant protection, and Drive Now/Text Later (texting).
  • Roadway Safety – Also sponsored by the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, this page provides resources for motorists, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists safety along state roads. You can visit links to learn about interstate roundabouts in Rhode Island, a wrong-way crash avoidance plan, special signals (e.g. pedestrian signs, yellow arrows), and HAWK (High-Intensity Activated crosswalk) signals.
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Charities Supported by Local Accident Reports

  • Arrive Alive Tour: The Arrive Alive Tour travels to schools and campuses in the US, raising awareness about the dangers of texting and driving and other forms of driver negligence.
  • The Compassionate Friends: The Compassionate Friends is an organization that helps families cope after losing a child. They try to provide hope, support, and comfort to the surviving family members of children who have lost their lives.
  • The Healing Tree: The Healing Tree is a program created to support children and teens grieving the loss of a loved one. While the specifics of the program may differ depending on the location, the main goal is to offer a safe and nurturing space where young people can express their feelings, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who are going through similar experiences.
  • Anxiety and Depression Association of America: The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a nonprofit organization committed to preventing, treating, and finding cures for anxiety, depression, and related disorders. Founded in 1979, ADAA works to enhance the quality of life for those affected by these conditions through education, practice, and research.
  • Bereaved Parents of the USA: BPUSA is a nonprofit organization that provides support, understanding, and hope to parents, grandparents, and siblings grieving the loss of a child. Founded in 1995, BPUSA has chapters across the United States, each offering local support and resources to help families through their grief.
  • Friends Way: Friends Way (Families Reaching Into Each New Day) is a nonprofit organization in Rhode Island that supports children and families grieving the loss of a loved one. It provides a safe and compassionate space where children and teens can navigate their grief through peer support and therapeutic activities.
  • Gateway Healthcare: Gateway Healthcare, also known as Gateway Health, is a top nonprofit behavioral healthcare provider in Rhode Island. As a subsidiary of Lifespan, the state’s largest health system, it offers a wide range of mental health and substance abuse treatment services for people of all ages.
  • StopDistractions.org is a nonprofit that’s all about spreading the word about how dangerous distracted driving can be. Their main goal is to cut down on the number of accidents and deaths caused by things like texting or using your phone while driving.

Wrongful Death in Rhode Island FAQ

  • In Rhode Island, wrongful death occurs when someone loses their life due to the careless or wrongful actions of another person. Laws in Rhode Island concerning wrongful death allow certain family members or beneficiaries to seek financial compensation for the damages they have endured related to the death.
     
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, usually, the person in charge of the deceased’s estate, known as the personal representative, files a wrongful death claim on behalf of the surviving family or beneficiaries. This representative is often named in the deceased’s will or chosen by the court.

In a wrongful death lawsuit in Rhode Island, the surviving family members or beneficiaries can seek various types of compensation. These include economic and non-economic types of damages. Non-economic damages may be more difficult to calculate due to their subjective nature. Unlike economic damages, which can be quantified with bills, receipts, and financial statements, non-economic damages depend on personal perceptions and experiences. Some economic and non-economic damages that may result from a wrongful death claim include:

  • Medical Expenses: Covering the medical bills related to the injury or illness that led to the person’s death.
  • Funeral and Burial Costs: Reimbursing expenses for arranging the funeral and burial.
  • Loss of Future Income and Financial Support: Providing compensation for the income and support the deceased would have contributed to their family.
  • Loss of Companionship: Offering damages for the emotional loss of the deceased’s love, guidance, and support.
  • Pain and Suffering: Addressing the emotional pain and suffering experienced by the surviving family members.

The specific damages awarded can vary based on the circumstances of the case and Rhode Island laws. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney specializing in wrongful death law is crucial to understanding your rights and seeking appropriate compensation for your losses.

Generally, the statute of limitations or time limit for filing a wrongful death lawsuit in Rhode Island is three years from the date of the death.
Those who could be held responsible in a wrongful death case might be individuals, companies, or organizations whose actions or negligence played a part in causing the death. This could include careless drivers, healthcare professionals, or companies that made faulty products.
Many cases are settled through negotiation between the parties involved, but if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial.

While it’s not mandatory to have a lawyer to file a wrongful death claim in Rhode Island, it’s highly recommended. Wrongful death cases can be challenging, involving complex legal procedures and negotiations with insurance companies or other parties. An experienced attorney who specializes in wrongful death law can provide valuable support, handle paperwork, gather evidence, negotiate settlements, and represent your interests in court if needed. Having a lawyer by your side can greatly increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your loss and ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Examples of Wrongful Death Claims in Rhode Island:

  • Car Accidents: If someone dies because of a careless driver, their family might file a claim against the driver or their insurance company.
  • Medical Malpractice: If a patient dies because of a mistake made by a healthcare provider, their family could file a claim against the provider or the hospital.
  • Workplace Accidents: If a worker dies because of dangerous conditions at work or employer negligence, their family might file a claim against the employer.
  • Defective Products: If a faulty product causes someone’s death, like a defective car part or a dangerous medical device, the family might sue the manufacturer or seller.
  • Premises Liability: If someone dies because of an accident on someone else’s property, like a slip and fall or drowning, their family could file a claim against the property owner.

These are just a few examples of situations that might lead to wrongful death claims in Rhode Island. Each case is different, so it’s important to talk to a lawyer to figure out the best way forward.

In wrongful death cases in Rhode Island, different kinds of evidence are needed to support the claims made by the plaintiff, which is the one bringing the lawsuit. Here are some common types:

  • Medical Records: These show the injuries, treatment, and cause of death, giving crucial details about what happened.
  • Expert Testimony: Professionals like doctors or accident experts can explain complicated medical issues or how the accident happened.
  • Witness Statements: People who saw the incident can share what they saw, adding important testimony.
  • Documentation of Losses: Records of expenses like medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income help figure out damages.
  • Employment Records: These can show how much the person who died earned and how they supported their family financially.
  • Photographs and Videos: Visual evidence like pictures or videos of the accident scene can help paint a clearer picture of what happened.
  • Police Reports and Investigations: Official reports from the police or accident investigations give more details about the incident and who might be at fault.
  • Previous Complaints or Violations: Evidence of past problems or negligence by the defendant can strengthen the case.
  • Expert Reports and Documentation: Reports from specialists like accident reconstructionists or medical experts give expert opinions on important parts of the case.
  • Other Supporting Documents: Any other relevant paperwork, like emails or records of communication between the parties involved, can also be important evidence.

Making sure all this evidence is gathered and presented well is important for the case to succeed. That’s where having a skilled attorney who knows wrongful death law comes in handy—they can help make sure all the right evidence is collected and presented to support the plaintiff’s claims.

In a wrongful death case, it’s up to the person representing the deceased’s estate (usually the plaintiff) to prove that the defendant’s actions caused the death. They have to show, with enough evidence, that it’s more likely than not that the defendant’s actions directly led to the death. This evidence needs to be strong enough to convince the court or jury that the defendant is responsible for the wrongful death.

Car Crash Statistics in Rhode Island

According to new federal traffic safety estimates, crash deaths in Rhode Island surged in 2023 while the rest of the nation saw a decline of about 3.6 percent. Preliminary data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration revealed that Rhode Island experienced 72 crash deaths last year, a significant increase from the 52 recorded in 2022. This marks a 38.5 percent rise in traffic fatalities. The state’s traffic death rate also went up, climbing from 0.69 in 2022 to 0.89 in 2023, according to the report. Data shows that an estimated 40,990 people died in crashes across the nation in 2023, a decrease of about 3.6 percent compared to the 42,514 deaths reported in 2022.
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Common Causes of Car Accidents in Rhode Island

Auto accidents happen for countless reasons throughout the United States and in Rhode Island. The negligent actions of drivers cause the majority of these wrecks. Driver negligence has become a problematic issue across the nation, taking the lives of tens of thousands of people per year. According to information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, over 93% of reported car crashes in the US are caused by negligent driving. Some of the most common types of driver negligence include:

  • Intoxication: Each year, over 30% of the national accident fatality rate is caused by driver intoxication.
  • Distraction: Driver distraction is behind more than 400,000 traffic collisions each year. Sadly, around 3,000 individuals lose their lives in wrecks caused by driver distraction.
  • Fatigue: Drivers who travel while over-tired cause over 1,500 fatalities per year and more than 100,000 traffic accidents.
  • Speeding: Speeding is behind over 11,000 deaths every year in the United States. Speeding is behind around 30% of the national accident fatality rate every year.

More than 6 million car crashes happen annually throughout the United States. These traffic accidents take the lives of over 40,000 individuals per year and injure around 3 million people annually. Every day, over 17,000 auto collisions occur in the United States that injure more than 7,500 and take the lives of over 100 people. If you have recently lost a beloved member of your family in a fatal traffic accident caused by the careless or reckless actions of a negligent driver, you deserve to be able to collect financial compensation that can help you pay for funeral and burial costs and more. No one should have to worry about money at a time like this, which is why wrongful death attorneys exist. At Local Accident Reports, we can help connect you with helpful resources that can get you on the path to financial recovery. Though we know that right now, money may be the furthest thing from your mind, getting the financial compensation and justice you deserve may help ease some of the stress and anxiety you may be facing. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you recover so you can focus on your loved ones and their well-being. 

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Rhode Island Grief & Trauma Resources

Resources by State

Talk to a Rhode Island Wrongful Death Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been involved in a personal injury or wrongful death case in Rhode Island, it’s crucial to seek the guidance of a skilled legal professional who understands both the law and the local landscape.  At Local Accident Reports, our dedicated team of attorneys is here to support you during this difficult time, offering compassionate advice and legal counsel to protect your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve. We will be with you every step of the way, from assessing your case to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if needed. Don’t wait to reach out for a comprehensive consultation to explore your legal options. Call us today at (888) 657-1460 to speak with a knowledgeable attorney who can provide the support and guidance you need to move forward confidently. Your journey to justice begins today.
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Motor Vehicle Crash Deaths by Road User Type and State

Car Occupants

Car Occupants

36

Pickup and SUV Occupants

Pickup and SUV Occupants

10

Large Truck Occupants

Large Truck Occupants

1

Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists

11

Pedestrians

Pedestrians

21

Bicyclists

Bicyclists

2

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