Legal Help after a Public Event Injury
Post date :
January 27, 2024
Founder, Western Slope Law
From the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre hosting over 150 concerts yearly to the plethora of Western Slope festivals and outgoings, public gatherings are woven into the fabric of Colorado life. Unfortunately, where crowds gather, injuries can happen. Colorado emergency departments report treating approximately 4,300 injuries related to public events each year, ranging from minor slips and falls to more serious incidents.
Whether you're a long-time resident or just visiting our beautiful state, knowing your rights and options after an injury at a public event can make a difficult situation more manageable.
Common Reasons for an Injury at a Public Event
Public events bring people together in shared spaces, but certain areas pose higher risks for injuries than others. Understanding these potential danger zones can help you stay alert and cautious while still enjoying the event. Let's look at the most common places where injuries occur at public gatherings in Colorado.
Entry and exit points: Nearly 28% of public event injuries occur at entrances and exits where crowds bottleneck. These areas are particularly dangerous during emergency evacuations or when large crowds are entering or exiting simultaneously.
Seating areas: Approximately 18% of injuries at Colorado venues involve seating-related accidents, including falls between rows, collapsing chairs, or injuries from broken seating components.
Stairways and ramps: These transitional areas account for about 15% of all reported injuries at public events, with wet surfaces being a major contributing factor, especially at outdoor venues during Colorado's unpredictable weather.
Concession and vendor areas: Spilled food and drinks create slip hazards, while hot food items can cause burns. These areas see roughly 12% of all event injuries, according to Colorado venue insurance claims data.
Restroom facilities: Often overcrowded and potentially wet or slippery, restroom areas account for approximately 8% of public event injuries, with falls being the most common type.
Performance or activity areas: In interactive events, approximately 7% of injuries occur when participants engage directly with activities, performances, or sports demonstrations.
Who Can Be Held Liable if You Have Been Injured?
The specific circumstances of your injury will ultimately determine who bears responsibility, but understanding the potential liable parties and their insurance coverage can help you navigate the claims process more effectively.
Event Organizers
Event organizers typically carry commercial general liability insurance, which covers most injuries that occur during their events. In Colorado, approximately 76% of public event injury claims are filed against these policies. This insurance typically covers injuries resulting from negligence in event planning, unsafe conditions, or inadequate security. For major events in Colorado, organizers are required to maintain at least $1 million in coverage, though many carry $2-5 million policies for larger venues.
Venue Owners
Venue owners often have premises liability insurance separate from event organizers. The Colorado Premises Liability Act classifies injured persons as invitees at public events, entitling them to the highest duty of care. According to Rocky Mountain Insurance Association data, venue insurance covers approximately 42% of public event injuries, particularly those involving structural issues, permanent fixtures, or building code violations. When both venue and organizer policies exist, determining which applies can become complex.
Vendors & Contractors
Third-party vendors, contractors, and performers may also bear liability through their own insurance policies. For example, if you're injured by equipment installed by a contractor or from food prepared by a vendor, their specialized insurance may be responsible. The Colorado Event Industry Association reports that roughly 24% of public event injuries involve third-party liability. These parties typically carry their own general liability policies ranging from $500,000 to $2 million, depending on their role in the event.
How Much is a Public Event Injury Case Worth?
Figuring out the value of a public event injury case can feel overwhelming, and there’s no exact formula. Settlements for a public event injury will typically range from $5,000 for minor injuries to over $10 million for catastrophic cases. According to the Colorado Judicial Branch's annual report, the median settlement for public event injuries in 2023 was approximately $42,500. But this can change significantly depending on medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the clarity of liability.
Things like long-term recovery needs and emotional distress can also play a role in how much you ultimately receive. For instance, if you require ongoing physical therapy or experience lasting pain, you may be entitled to a higher settlement. At the end of the day, every situation is unique, so it’s always best to consult a legal expert to get a clearer picture of what your own case might be worth.
How Hiring a Lawyer Can Help
Western Slope Law specializes in helping Coloradans navigate the complex aftermath of personal injuries. Our team has recovered multiple 7+ figure settlements for clients injured in the state, and several 8+ figure settlements. We bring more than just legal expertise – we have direct experience working with Colorado's major event venues and their insurance providers. This insider knowledge allows us to cut through red tape and avoid the common delays that frustrate many injury victims.
