Will the Denver Democratic National Convention Lead to Personal Injury Lawsuits?
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The craze has begun, as the City of Denver works hard in anticipation and preparation for the Democratic National Convention (DNC). Set to take place on August 25 - 28, 2008, the DNC may generate more than a nominee for the Presidency. The DNC may generate a “suit-boom” in Denver.
As a Denver resident, anticipating the increases in traffic and pedestrians on the streets, the use of public transportation, accommodating out-of-state guests and members of the media with lodging and rental cars, and welcoming the arrival of politicians in private aircrafts poses some concerns. Will all this spark a “suit boom” in Denver?
The estimated $40 million it will cost to host the DNC will likely be spent, in large part, on the implementation of federal anti-terrorism procedures and security during the week. According The Rocky Mountain News, Sara Burnett reported the DNC is expected to draw thousands of protestors, and from the sounds of it, there are also thousands of rumors of what security measures will be taken by organizers of the DNC and how it will accommodate both Denver residents and visitors.
Noelle Leavitt, from the Denver Business Journal, reported Airspace around Denver is likely to be severely restricted when top political figures, Democratic Party sponsors and celebrities visit for the Democratic National Convention in August. General aviation airports in the metro area expect a huge surge in business from attendees who choose not to fly through Denver International Airport during the convention. But the event could temporarily ground some private aircraft. All forms of transportation will likely have to operate differently during the DNC. With these expectations, it is only logical to prepare for the worst.
All this leads me to the very real possibility that the DNC, and the 35,000- 50,000 people it will bring to the city, will inevitably ignite a small “suit- boom.” Think about it. More traffic and more pedestrians mean more accidents and more insurance claims for bodily injury. Visitors, by foot or by vehicle, will hurriedly and carelessly try to get downtown in time for floor sessions, scrambling through mobs of lobbyists and news reporters. Residents will become frustrated with the incessant traffic on their journey to and from work. One thing is probably true—Denver Police will not only be busy keeping protestors in line, they will be filling out traffic accident reports and issuing citations constantly.
Niki Skaggs
Law Clerk
J.D. Candidate 2009
University of Denver