We were thrilled when we discovered that Chris Halsne and Chris Koeberl at KDVR took a look at one of the things many people don’t know about injuries out on the slopes.
Their piece, embedded above, explains how Colorado law actually shields Ski Resorts from having to share information about a person who injured you.
The investigation focuses on one individual’s case in particular, however this is not an uncommon practice. The investigation lead the reporters to speak with two trade organizations, the National Ski Association and Colorado Ski Country USA. Some resorts are interested in keeping the number of attendees they have each season quiet. In the video, a spokesperson for the National Ski Association explains that if you didn’t know the total number of people on the slopes, you wouldn’t be able to appreciate how ‘surprisingly low’ the actual number of accidents was.
As the reporters suggested, these lobbyists have a tremendous amount of power. Many popular Coloradan politicians are well connected to the Ski industry, and with good reason. The tourists brought to our state each year are a very important part of our state’s economy. That shouldn’t excuse the resort operators from doing their part to make sure that the people who have supported their operations season after season are safe on the slopes.
This won’t change in our state until ordinary people like you and me write to our representatives, and make it clear that we demand better. In the mean time, there are some things you can do if you’ve been injured on the slopes that can make it much easier to get the help you need treating your injuries.
1. Take Down Names
One of the most important things you can do after any accident is to write down the names of the people who were involved and anyone who may have seen what happened. While you don’t need to interview these people right away, it can helpful to have a list to share with your attorney you meet later on.
2. Make A Recording
Colorado is a single party recording state. This means that when you make a phone call if one of the parties consents to a recording, you can record the call. This means that many of the interactions you have dealing with Colorado businesses are actually recorded.
While it’s unlikely that you’ll speak with the person who injures you off the slopes, if you’ve got your smartphone handy, you might be able to capture some of the accident. Many skiers and snowboarders film themselves when they’re on the slopes.
If you or someone skiing with you is filming, that film might become very valuable evidence.
You may also notice someone filming in the general area of your accident. Make sure, if at all possible, you get a copy of the video.
3. Write Down What Happened
If you witness an accident, make sure you write down what you saw as quickly as possible. These written testimonies can help to keep your memory fresh. If you end up hiring an attorney to represent you later on, your written statement may help that attorney build a case.
4. Make Copies Of Everything
Because resorts don’t always cooperate with personal injury lawyers in Aurora, it’s a good idea to make sure someone is with you if you are receiving emergency care at the resort. If you aren’t, make sure that you keep copies of every piece of paper that they give you. There’s a very good chance that your injuries will require you to meet with a physician when you get home. Having a paper trail can help save time and money developing a treatment plan.
While these tips won’t help you avoid a deadbeat giving you a fake name, they’ll go a long way towards reducing the likelihood you are ever in a situation where you need it to hire a professional. Remember, most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and will be happy to hear what happened.
