If you have been involved in an automobile accident, you should be aware that—despite the many television commercials which portray your insurance company as your friend—you will likely be dealing with a company which will do everything in their power to undervalue your claim, or even to deny the claim altogether. The U.S. insurance industry brings in profits of more than $30 billion a year, and the CEOs of the insurance company are paid more than most other industries. Despite this, unethical behavior—and downright dirty tricks—are sometimes used to boost the companies’ financial bottom lines even more. Common insurance company tactics can include the following:

• Your insurance company may be quick to act with a goal of catching you “off guard,” and definitely before you have considered hiring an attorney and before you’ve even discovered the extent of your injuries. It is important that you never accept a quick offer from an insurance company, and equally important that you have an experienced attorney by your side to look out for your interests.
• You may be asked for a recorded statement. The goal is to get you to say something on tape, while you are still flustered from the accident, then will later use those statements to deny or devalue your claim. Even something as innocent as answering a question asking how you are by saying “I’m fine, thank you,” can end up costing you. After all, you just said you were “fine.”
• Your insurance adjuster—despite being very friendly—has the company profits uppermost in his or her mind. You may even be told by the adjuster that you don’t need an attorney. Remember those injured in an accident who are well-represented legally, have been shown to end up with larger settlements than those who deal directly with the insurance company. Your attorney actually does have your best interests at heart, while your insurance company does not.
• Some insurance companies may ask you to sign a medical authorization form, allowing them to obtain your medical records—any and all of your medical records, not just those relating to your auto accident. The goal with this request is to discover any type of personal information about you which will allow them to deny your claim. Perhaps you suffered a horse riding accident two decades ago (for which you were treated, and you recovered from with a couple of months). Suddenly, the insurance company is claiming your current injuries are related to that accident, rather than your auto accident. Never, ever give a medical release form to an insurance company until you have spoken to your attorney.
• Your insurance company may continuously delay your claim, until you accept a low settlement. Your insurance company is aware you may be unable to work, therefore are not bringing in a regular paycheck. They know you are helplessly watching your medical expenses, as well as your regular monthly expenses, continue to mount. The insurance company is waiting until your desperation has reached the point that you will settle for a lowball offer.
• Your insurance company may be surveilling you, in your home, at work or when you are engaging in a recreational activity with your family. If you are asking for a significant settlement, the insurance company may have an investigator follow you without your knowledge. The goal will be to catch you engaging in some activity which would indicate your limitations are much less significant than you have claimed. Obviously, you should never claim injuries you don’t have, but you could still have serious injuries, yet have to pick up your crying toddler no matter how much it hurts.
• The insurance company may attempt to deny liability altogether. They may do this by claiming the accident was your fault, or at least partially your fault.
• The insurance company may dispute the level of your injuries. Insurance companies often want to limit your medical treatment, therefore may dispute the fact that you are as seriously injured as you claim, or may say your injuries were present prior to the accident.

Further Reading: Want to Avoid an Accident? Get Some Sleep!

In the end, you should never try to negotiate with an insurance company without an experienced Denver personal injury attorney by your side. Your attorney has spent years dealing with every insurance tactic around, and has a comprehensive knowledge of Colorado injury law. Further, your attorney will be constantly ensuring your rights, and your future are properly protected.

Contact Our Experienced Denver Personal Injury Attorneys

At the Gold Law Firm, our personal injury attorneys have been assisting injured Denver accident victims and their families for years. We know how to negotiate with insurance companies and we never stop fighting until we get the money YOU need to recover. Contact Gregory A. Gold of the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653.

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If you happen to be an anxious driver, you might want to consider moving to Colorado. A recent survey concluded that the most patient, courteous drivers might be found in colorful Colorado. Colorado ranked 7^th in the nation for most polite drivers in a survey which was done by Kars4Kids, a nonprofit, based in New Jersey.

Findings of the study included that Colorado drivers are more likely than drivers from other states to allow another car to merge in heavy traffic, or to be patient when another driver is tailgating. Other states that made the “most polite” list for drivers included Washington, Hawaii, Montana, New Mexico, Idaho, Oregon, Vermont, New Hampshire and Alaska. (New York took last-place in the survey for courteous drivers).

What Makes a Courteous Driver?

While Colorado drivers might be the most courteous, they are also more likely to steal your parking space. The Kars4Kids survey gave each state letter grades for driving habits, and Colorado drivers only received a “B” for stealing parking spaces, while Oregon and California drivers received an “A” in that area—much less likely to swipe another’s parking spot.

Interestingly, common courtesies of the road differ from state to state. As an example, drivers in some states say it is rude to speed ahead in the merge lane in order to get into the flow of traffic, while drivers in New York and some other states consider this normal driving procedure. The following question is just one example of those asked on the survey:

1. You are driving on a one-lane road, which has a posted speed limit of 40 mph. The vehicle in front of you has been driving a steady 38 mph for a considerable length of time, despite the fact there is no traffic in front of the driver. You would:
2. Tailgate the driver in front of you;
3. Honk and/or flash your bright lights;
4. Pass the driver, or
5. Maintain a 2-3 second following distance.

Colorado Driver’s Scores

Colorado drivers received an overall grade of A-, with the following scores for specific categories:

• Responding rudely to tailgaters—A-
• Aggressively responding to slow drivers—A-
• Letting vehicles merge in heavy traffic—A-
• Consistent use of turn signals—B
• Stealing another driver’s parking spot—A-
• Speeding up to stop another driver from passing you—C

The study also tracked courteous drivers by age and gender, finding that, as a whole, women were more courteous than men when behind the wheel, and that drivers under the age of 24 were, overall, the least polite. Drivers in the age range of 51-64 tend to be the most courteous as a whole.  Unfortunately, many drivers feel that when they are behind the wheel, other drivers are relatively anonymous.

Further Reading: Insurance Company Tactics to Watch Out For

Becoming a More Courteous Driver

Perhaps the two things drivers do most often that really annoys other drivers are tailgating, and refusing to use a signal when they turn. Avoid these two habits when driving, and follow the following rules to become a more courteous driver:

• When you pass on the left, return to the right-hand lane as quickly as possible;
• If the lane you are driving in is about to end, merge safely into traffic rather than attempting to pass;
• Make sure you always use your turn signal, then double-check your blind spot before changing lanes;
• Never block an intersection;
• If you are driving at a speed which is significantly below the posted speed limit, use your emergency flashers;
• Never tailgate the car in front of you—not only is it unsafe, it is annoying to the driver ahead of you;
• Try not to make last-second lane changes, and
• Don’t park closely to other cars in parking lots.

Contact Our Experienced Denver Car Accident Lawyers

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident in Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, or anywhere in the state of Colorado, we can help. Our experienced car accident lawyers understand how difficult this time can be for you and your family and we work tirelessly to obtain the compensation you need to pay medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Contact Gregory A. Gold of the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653.

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At some point in our lives – the majority of us will be involved in an accident. Every single year there are over 2 million car accidents that lead to injuries. These accidents can cause mild injuries such as torn ligaments, whiplash or broken bones, or they can lead to horrific and life-threatening injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding. Yet, no matter how serious or how minor your collision may be, there are car accident mistakes you can make afterwards that can prove to be costly. While most drivers believe that they know what to do after an accident, the vast majority do not. Do you know what NOT to do after a car accident?

If you are involved in a car accident in Denver, DO NOT make these mistakes:

1. Mistake #1: Leaving the scene of the accident: you are legally obligated to stay at the scene of any accident, even minor ones. If you do leave the scene of an accident, you could be charged with a misdemeanor crime. If your accident resulted in an injury or a fatality, leaving the scene of the accident could result in you being charged with a felony crime. Always call the police and wait with your vehicles until they arrive. A police report is also critical to proving fault and establishing liability. Without a police report, obtaining maximum compensation from the other insurance company will be difficult.
2. Mistake #2: Not Seeking Medical Help: even if you believe that you are not injured, it is best to be seen by medical professional. Even minor injuries may need to be treated so that they do not turn into chronic injuries. Having a medical report is critical to proving that your injuries were caused by the accident. In addition, always follow up with your doctor, attend all therapy sessions, and fill medications promptly. Follow your doctor’s orders precisely and be sure to go back into the doctor quickly if you notice worsening symptoms or new injuries.
3. Mistake #3: Freaking Out: immediately after an accident, emotions maybe running high. You may be angry, nervous, or even scared. Try to remain as calm as possible and check on the occupants of your vehicle, as well as the passengers in the other vehicle. Be careful never to admit fault. Even saying something as simple as “I’m Sorry” can be used against you to reduce your claim.
4. Mistake #4: Neglecting to Gather Evidence: after an accident it is wise to take pictures of the accident scene, any damage to your vehicle, and any injuries you sustained. Take pictures of the intersection, any signs, and any other evidence that you believe is critical. You also should get the names and numbers of any witnesses. Also, remember to get the name, address, and insurance information of the other driver. The make, model, color, and tag number of their vehicle might be helpful. It will be difficult to remember this information clearly after a few weeks have passed.
5. Mistake #5: Not Calling an Attorney: if you were injured in the accident, it is always best to talk to experienced car accident attorney. Understanding your legal rights is critical to obtain maximum compensation. You will likely need money to pay for medical bills, the damage to your vehicle, and lost wages. Your attorney will be able to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and make sure that all you’re right protected throughout the legal process.

Further Reading: ACCORDING TO RECENT KARS4KIDS SURVEY COLORADO DRIVERS 7TH MOST POLITE IN US

Contact Our Experienced Denver Car Accident Lawyers Immediately

When a negligent or reckless driver injures you or someone you love, it is important to seek legal help. You have a right to know all of your legal options and choose the one that is best for you and your family. Contact Gregory A. Gold of the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653. Our Denver car accident law firm has the knowledge and resources needed to tackle even the most complex car accident case. Call us today.

The post STOP! Don’t Make One of These Car Accident Mistakes appeared first on .

Riding a motorcycle is a thrilling and fun experience, especially in the beautiful state of Colorado during the fall. In fact, motorcycle enthusiasts come from all over the country to ride through the beautiful and winding Rocky Mountains. Yet, riding a motorcycle here is dangerous. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, motorcycle crashes are up 58% over the last 4 years. In 2016, motorcyclist fatalities hit an all-time high and although motorcycles account for just 3% of the registered vehicles on the road, they make up over 20% of accident deaths.

These statistics are startling and a reminder to all motorcyclists that an accident can occur at any time and to anyone. While wearing approved safety gear can help you avoid serious injury in an accident, it can actually help you avoid some serious accidents as well. For example, wearing a brightly colored helmet or motorcycle jacket will increase the likelihood that other drivers will see you on the road and help you avoid some potentially common motorcycle accidents.

Most Common Motorcycle Accidents

1. Car Turning Left in Front of You – this is by far the most common motorcycle accident. Inattentive drivers, blind spots, and drivers not looking for oncoming motorcycles, can all lead to a car pulling out and turning left in front of you at an intersection. In order to avoid this accident, you need to see it coming. Look for signs that someone is turning. Slow down, cover your brakes, and get ready to take evasive action. Watch the wheels for movement – this is often the first sign you will see to signal that a car is going to turn left in front of you.
2. Hitting Gravel or Sand in a Blind Corner – rounding a corner on a road, especially in the mountains, may be dangerous, especially if there is gravel or sand in your path. The best way to avoid this is to ride at a pace where your reaction time is within reason and you can avoid hitting the gravel or sand trap. Enter turns wide and pick up speed on your way out.
3. A Car Changes Lanes in Front of You – when an inattentive driver suddenly changes lanes into your space, it can cause serious and significant accidents and injuries. To avoid these types of accidents, look for signs of cars changing lanes. You have to be proactive and aware of all the traffic around you. Be aware at all times because chances are the other motorists are not.
4. Car Hits You from Behind – when you come to a stop sign or stop light, you expect the car behind you to stop as well. When they don’t, they can seriously injure you. In fact, a fender bender can kill a motorcyclist. How can you avoid this? Stop to the side rather than in the center of the lane and rapidly flash your brake light to signal to other approaching cars.
5. A Car Opens Its Door – this sound innocuous but it’s not. A car door suddenly being flung open can cause serious accidents and even fatalities. Cyclists call the area next to parked cars – the Death Zone because it is so dangerous. To avoid this, never ever ride between an active traffic lane and parked cars.

Further Reading: Stop! Don’t Make One of These Car Accident Mistakes

While you can’t prevent every single accident from occurring, there are steps you can take to ensure your safety. Always wear an DOT approved motorcycle helmet, wear bright and reflective clothing, and never ever drink and ride. In addition, be attentive at all times when you are riding. Always assume that the other drivers around you are NOT being attentive and watch for signs of distraction.

Contact Our Denver Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

If you have been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to know that you have legal options. Don’t discuss your case with the insurance company before first calling us. We can help you obtain maximum compensation for your injuries. Contact Gregory A. Gold of the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653.

The post Common Motorcycle Accidents and How to Avoid Them appeared first on .

Does marijuana use increase the risk of a car accident or does it not? The answer to that question depends on which study you look at. In fact, in recent months, studies have come to seemingly opposite conclusions further muddying the picture.

A study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety analyzed vehicle collisions from January 2012 to October 2016. They compared the claims from states which had recently legalized marijuana and those neighboring states which had not. As of now, 3 states have legalized marijuana: Colorado, Washington, and Oregon. What they discovered was that collision frequencies were 3% higher in states that had legalized marijuana. While this number might seem small, it does show a significant increase that many believe could be tied to the legalized marijuana industry.

Seems like the answer is that marijuana increases the risk of a car accident – right?

Not so fast.

Another study recently published in the American Journal of Public Health found absolutely no increase in vehicle crash fatalities in either Colorado and Washington. They analyzed federal data from 2009 to 2015 and found no significant uptick in motor vehicle crash fatality rates in the first 3 years after legalized marijuana.

So do these studies actually show different and opposing conclusions? Not really.

The studies actually measured and looked at different things. The IIHS study simply observed motor vehicle collision rates, while the AJPH report was more concerned with fatal crashes. So in reality, while legalized marijuana may increase the risk of getting into a car accident, it doesn’t seem to increase the risk of dying in a car crash.

This is in line with current federal research that has shown that smoking pot before driving increases the likelihood of getting into a car accident. Yet, this is far less impairing than alcohol – which is already legal.

Another difference between the two studies was that the IIHS report compared neighboring states to the ones that had legalized marijuana. The AJPH study actually compared states that shared specific characteristics, such as traffic, roadways and population.

So while it seems that drugged driving is on the rise – fatal car accidents caused by drugged driving are not. This is some comfort for those states which have recently legalized marijuana and for those states looking to do the same in the near future.

Further Reading: Common Motorcycle Accident and How to Avoid Them

Drugged Driving is Pervasive 

Regardless of which study you look at – drugged driving is dangerous. Drugged driving puts passengers, drivers, and others at risk. Marijuana, can slow reaction time and impair judgement. Cocaine or methamphetamine use can result in aggressive and reckless driving. Sedatives can cause drowsiness behind the wheel of the car. All of these drugs can lead to serious and fatal car accidents.

According to the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 20.7 million people drove under the influence of alcohol in the last year and 11.8 million drove under the influence of illicit drugs. The survey found that men were more likely to drive under the influence of both drugs and alcohol and many young drivers routinely do so.

When testing blood samples of drivers involved in crashes, marijuana was the most common drug found in the blood. Drivers with THC in their blood were twice as likely to be responsible for a deadly crash.

After marijuana, prescription drugs were responsible for many crashes. A 2010 study of deadly crashes found that 47% of drivers had used a prescription drug – most commonly pain relievers.

Contact Our Denver Car Accident Attorneys

If you or someone you love is injured in a car accident because of a drugged driver, our Denver car accident attorneys can help. When someone else’s negligence leads to your car accident and injuries, you need an experienced Denver car accident attorney on your side. We can help you collect the money you will need to recover from your injuries and resume your overall quality of life. Contact Gregory A. Gold of the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653.

The post Drugged Driving is Dangerous But Pot May Not be the Problem appeared first on .

Travel across the United States increases dramatically during the holidays. In fact, there was a record number of travelers during the 2016 holiday season, with 93.6 million Americans driving to their holiday destinations. These travelers will journey at least 50 miles from their home, and will spend an average of $2.30-$2.50 per gallon for gas during the holidays. Thanksgiving is actually a bigger holiday travel period than Christmas and New Year’s, with travel destinations more than 50 miles away increasing by 54 percent over Thanksgiving weekend, and only 23 percent during Christmas and New Year’s. Most people who travel for the Thanksgiving holiday will do so on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, although there will be a fair amount of travelers returning home on Friday and Sunday as well. With all of these extra drivers on the road, and often less than ideal driving conditions, everyone should be concerned about staying safe while traveling for the holidays.

Staying Safe During Holiday Travel

So how can you stay safe during your travels—or ensure your family members stay safe as they travel to your home? Make sure your car is road-worthy, particularly if you will be driving in winter conditions, such as snow and ice. Check your tire pressure, make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition, have your brakes and battery checked, and always carry an emergency roadside kit, as well as a stash of granola bars or other food, water, and blankets. Although you may never need these items, if you do, you will be very glad you packed them.

Further Reading: Drugged Driving is Dangerous but Pot May Not be the Problem

Check Your Route and the Weather

Once your car is in good shape, consider your route, and, whenever possible, try to drive during daylight hours only. When you are fatigued, and it gets dark, accidents are much more likely to occur. Have a set time to leave, and plan to stop every couple of hours to get out and stretch your legs. Always make sure your cell phone is fully charged before you leave, and that you have a car charger, just in case. Check the weather before you leave, and get regular weather updates on your phone along the way. Be aware that the weather can change in an instant, and you could end up unprepared for winter weather. Whether you are traveling alone, or with others, let friends and family know when you will be leaving, where you will be stopping along the way, and when you will return home.

Adjust How You Drive 

You may be familiar with driving in snow and ice, or you may be new to driving in winter weather conditions. If you are new to driving in snow and ice, you must remember three primary things: Slow down, leave plenty of room between yourself and the car ahead of you, and if you do skid, steer into the skid. Make sure you, and all passengers are securely buckled up, and if you are involved in an accident, if you are unable to get your car safely off the road, stay inside the car until help arrives. Standing outside the car puts you in a very dangerous position, as another car could skid in the same area as your car skidded, sliding into you. If you have chains for your vehicle make sure they are in the car, and that you know how to put the chains on if needed.

Having an accident is never a good thing, but it is even less so during the holidays. An accident can completely derail your holiday plans, preventing you from reaching your destination, and potentially even leaving you stranded in an unfamiliar town for the holidays. If you do have an accident, after contacting a tow truck and your insurance company, consider contacting an experienced Colorado personal injury attorney. If the accident was the fault of a negligent driver, your attorney will help you recover damages for your vehicle and medical expenses for your injuries.   

Contact Our Denver Car Accident Attorneys

When you or someone you love is injured in a car accident in Denver, it is important to know where to turn for help. At the Gold Law Firm, our Denver car accident attorneys have the experience needed to tackle large and complex car accident cases – and win. Unsure of your legal options? We can help. Contact Gregory A. Gold of the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653.

The post Staying Safe While Traveling for the Holidays appeared first on .

On January 16th, the Gold Law Firm’s own Pamela Maass will be a guest panelist for part one of “It’s About Time – Addressing Sexual Harassment in the Film Industry”. The 3-part series is the result of a partnership between Women in Film & Media Colorado (WIFMCO), the Colorado Film & Video Association (CFVA) & the Denver Film Society (DFS):

“In response to the outcry against sexual harassment and gender imparities in our industry, both in Hollywood and Colorado, Women in Film & Media Colorado presents a 3-part look at how these issues affect women in the workplace and beyond – and how to make effective changes.”

Part one will focus on sexual harassment from a legal perspective, defining what sexual harassment is, what can be done about it, and how the legal system can help defend victims.

Pamela Maass is an award winning attorney who has done extensive work on behalf of victims of sexual assault, and who brings an experienced and knowledgeable perspective regarding the legal issues surrounding harassment in the workplace. In her young career as an attorney, she has been named a “Top 40 Under 40” lawyer by the National Trial Lawyers Association, has been rated a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers, and was awarded the “Excellence in Civil Legal Representation Award” by the Rocky Mountain Victim Law Center (RMvlc).

The event will take place at the SIE Film Center starting at 7pm, and other panelists will include Faisal Salahuddin from the law firm of Frank & Salahuddin, Jaclyn Kjellsen, Esq. from the Colorado Civil Rights Division, Denise Strong from the Directors Guild of America, and Sheila Traister from SAG-AFTRA Colorado.

All are welcome, and admission to the event is free. Seating will be limited so you must RSVP if you plan on attending.

Contact Our Experienced Denver Attorneys

At the Gold Law Firm, our attorneys are ready and willing to help you safeguard your rights and protect your future. Contact the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653, or fill out the contact form on this page.

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The former chairman of the Colorado Optometry Board is being sued for sexual harassment by an unnamed former patient.

The suit alleges that in 2015, “While plaintiff was seated in an examination chair and undergoing an eye examination where her sight and mobility was restricted by equipment used in the examination, Defendant Paul Conkling aggressively began to grab, grope, and kiss Plaintiff against her wishes.”

“We know he’s done this to other women, and he has now denied it,” said attorney Pamela Maass, who filed the lawsuit with attorneys Greg Gold of the Gold Law Firm and Ross Pulkrabek of Keating Wagner Polidor Free.

See the full FOX31 interview with Pamela Maass here.

Experienced and Caring Legal Help 

We are passionate about representing the survivors of sexual assault and harassment. Our law firm has the experience needed, and the sensitivity required to properly represent the victims of sexual assault, obtain the justice the deserve, and hold the negligent parties responsible so that it doesn’t happen again. If you were injured in a sexual assault, abuse or rape involving an institution, organization or business, please contact Pamela Maass of the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653.

The post Pamela Maass Interviewed by FOX31 Regarding Harassment Suit Against Disgraced Eye Doctor appeared first on .

2017 was not a good year for fatal car crashes in Colorado. In 2017, there were 616 traffic fatalities – even higher than in previous years. In fact, over the last 2 years the number of traffic fatalities has increased 11%, with the majority of the accidents occuring in Adams, Weld, and El Paso counties. Among all the cities in Colorado, Denver had the deadliest roads with 44 traffic fatalities this year alone.

What Caused the Increase in Traffic Fatalities in Colorado?

Safety officials have concluded that the increase in traffic fatalities were related to three main things: Speed, seat belt use, and driving impaired.

• Speeding – speeding contributes to roughly 30% of all traffic related fatalities and the NHTSA estimates that it costs our society $40.4 billion. Young males are the most likely to engage in speeding while driving. When drivers go above the posted speed limits, they often take chances, follow too closely behind other vehicles, and fail to react in emergency situations. They may run red lights, weave in and out of traffic, or simply fail to stop in time because of their excessive speed.
• Seat Belt Use – there was a 14% increase in the number of people who were not wearing their seat belts at the time of their accidents. Seat belt use is one of the best ways to protect yourself in an accident. Among drivers over the age of 21, those were were speeding were also more likely not to be wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash (77%).
• Driving Impaired – using drugs and alcohol while driving is a dangerous and often fatal mistake. Alcohol impairment resulted in nearly a third of all traffic fatalities. In addition, there was a 20% increase in people who were impaired at the time of their fatal car accident. In 2016, there were 10,497 fatalities involving a driver with a BAC of 0.08 g/dl or higher. This accounted for 28% of the fatal accidents that year.

Related Article: Staying Safe While Traveling for the Holidays

What to Do if You are Injured in an Accident

If you are injured in an accident because of another driver’s carelessness or recklessness, it is important to know all of your legal options. You have a right to collect compensation for damages, including lost wages, pain and suffering, and medical expenses. Unfortunately, insurance companies are not always on your side – even if you were not the one who caused the accident. Their main objective is to pay you as little as possible. That’s why it is so important to have an attorney on your side from the very start. Your attorney will be able to negotiate with insurance companies while you are recovering and protect your rights to compensation.

Immediately after your accident, be sure you call 911 and seek medical care. Even if you do not believe that you are injured, it is best to be treated by a medical professional. Many injuries can take hours to fully become realized. As such, it is important to go to the emergency room for a complete evaluation. In addition to getting medical attention, calling 911 will alert the police to the accident scene. This will enable the police to write a report. This accident report will help your attorney establish negligence clearly and is a crucial part of the process.

If you are not badly injured, consider taking pictures of the accident scene, the damages to your car, and your injuries. If you are able, gather the names and numbers of any eye witnesses. This will help your attorney build a case that is designed to collect maximum compensation and establish fault.

Contact Our Denver Car Accident Attorneys NOW!

As soon as you are able, it is important to contact an experienced Denver car accident attorney. Your attorney will be able to fight for your rights and protect your future along the way. Time is critical, so don’t delay. Contact Gregory A. Gold of the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303) 694-4653.

The post Fatal Car Crashes in Colorado Up in 2017 appeared first on .

For days, women filed into the Michigan courthouse to confront their abuser in a horrific child sex abuse case. The man on the stand – Larry Nassar – was accused of violating and sexually abusing more than 160 girls in his care over his career of 20 years. For two decades Larry Nassar worked with the U.S.A. gymnastics teams, as well as athletes at Michigan State University, and Michigan Twinstars gymnastics club. The girls, who have now grown into women, described unspeakable acts of sexual abuse while they were in his care. Each of these women took the stand to face their abuser and demand justice.

Larry Nassar pleaded guilty to seven counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct involving more than 160 girls. Judge Rosemarie Aquilina sentenced him to 40 to 175 years in prison. He will spend the remainder of his life behind bars.

One of the victims, Aly Raisman, gave a scathing speech in court where she pointed a much needed finger at the organization, USA Gymnastics. She said the organization ignored allegations of sexual abuse and even threatened her to be quiet. The three-time gold medal-winning gymnast faced her abuser and called for sweeping changes in leadership at USA Gymnastics. She said that USA Gymnastics is “100 percent responsible” for the sexual abuse that was allowed to continue for decades.

The Fallout – USA Gymnastics

Several women have stated that they reported the abuse to top officials at USA Gymnastics, but that their claims were ignored – allowing the abuse to continue and countless girls to be injured. On January 27th, Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette said that a special prosecutor will investigate the incidents closely and determine the culpability of each of the schools that employed Larry Nassar over the years. The prosecutor will look to determine:

• How the abuse continued for 20 years without being stopped?
• Who at Michigan State and USA Gymnastics was aware of the actions?
• What steps did university officials take when they became aware of the accusations?
  

More than 100 accusers have filed civil lawsuits against Michigan State and USA Gymnastics. They allege that the institutions were negligent and failed to warn or protect. These institutions failed to report the claims and investigate properly. One suit filed by 2012 Olympic medalist McKayla Maroney alleged that USA Gymnastics paid her to keep quiet of the abuse she suffered at the hands of Nassar.

Previous Article: Fatal Car Crashes in Colorado Up In 2017

Resignations are a Start

Since the Larry Nassar child sex abuse scandal broke, there have been many resignations including:

• Michigan State President Lou Anna Simon resigned in late January 2018
• Michigan State Athletic Director Mark Hollis announced his retirement
• Michigan State physician Brooke Lemmen resigned last year after she removed bodes of confidential treatment records at the school’s request
• Gymnastics coach Klages retired in 2017
• All of the board members of USA Gymnastics stepped down in January

In addition to resignations, USA Gymnastics has already begun an extensive overhaul – which began in late 2016. In June 2017, former federal prosecutor released a report highlighting the numerous shortcomings of the organization in how they handled and reported sex abuse. USA Gymnastics has since said that it would implement the 70 recommendations which included requiring members to report suspected sexual misconduct to the legal authorities and implementing an abuse prevention training plan for everyone.

Contact Our Denver Sexual Assault Victims Rights Attorneys Today

If your doctor or medical professional has sexually assaulted you, we can help you seek justice against your abuser and against the negligent facilities that harbored them. At the Gold Law Firm, our Denver sexual assault victims rights attorneys are passionate about representing survivors of sexual assault and helping them seek the justice they deserve. We have the experience and the resources needed to fight for you. Contact the Gold Law Firm today for a free consultation at (303)-694-4653.

The post USA Gymnastics Doctor Sentenced in Horrific Child Sex Abuse Case appeared first on .