VanMeveren Law Group - October 2021

VanMeveren Law Group - October 2021

123 North College Ave., Suite 112 Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-495-9741

BRYAN VANMEVEREN

OCTOBER 2021

Fighting for Safer Roads THE COLORADO STATUTE MOTORISTS AND CYCLISTS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

This July, I was in the final preparation stages of training for Ironman Boulder, cycling just 10 miles outside of the city. As I came to an intersection, a vehicle ahead of me blew through a stop sign at an excessive speed. This wasn’t new to me. I’ve seen plenty of drivers disregard road laws because they are in a hurry or careless, and it puts myself, other drivers, and pedestrians at risk. It’s scary when you witness these careless acts in person, and a spike in these kinds of actions have caused local cyclists like myself to limit the amount of time we spend on the road. The risk is just far too great. Without thinking, I shook my head at the driver as he flew past me. That’s when I heard his vehicle turn around. (And I captured it on the rearview camera I wear.) Speeding down the road, this driver pulled up next to me, coming within a foot of my side —which is illegal because Colorado law states vehicles should give at least three feet of space to cyclists — and quickly pulled in front of me. Immediately, the driver launched from his vehicle, his arms waving madly at me. In response, I calmly unclipped from my bike and tried to remain at ease — a clear contrast to the rage this man was exhibiting. At this point, the driver was cussing at me and calling me every name he could think of. He was also sure to tell me that I had no right to be on the road (I did) and that I should get off the road (I didn’t have to).

children, and he had to be careful on the roads. His response was to ask me what I was going to do. As I continued to try to explain the severity of this situation to this driver, he shrugged me off with an “I don’t care” and sped away. I was completely shaken from this event. It’s true — if he had hit me, I could have been killed. Even when vehicles are only traveling at 20 miles per hour, bicyclists and other vulnerable road users are in grave danger if they are hit by those who are careless enough to not pay attention to the road. Luckily, I had his driver’s license plate number, and I reported him to the cops. A driver with that much anger and carelessness shouldn’t be driving on the streets without intervention. Fortunately, Colorado statutes have systems in place to protect bicyclists and other vulnerable drivers from operators like this man. Previously, in cases where a car, truck, or other motorist was at fault for an accident with a pedestrian, bicyclist, or someone similar, the vehicle operator was only given a minor citation. However, as of May 2019, drivers in Colorado who are at fault in accidents with pedestrians, bicyclists, skateboarders, emergency services, farm vehicle users, and others who may be vulnerable to vehicles face a Class 1 traffic misdemeanor. In layman’s terms, they have a heftier punishment to serve, including attending a driver improvement course, doing community service, and paying the injured party.

I fully support this as a personal injury attorney who fights for the rights of those who are injured and as an avid cyclist. We live in a car-centric society, and far too many drivers operate without fear of consequence should they hit someone more vulnerable. A ticket is nothing compared to medical bills, losing your bike, physical therapy, loss of income from a job, and so much more that bicyclists and pedestrians can face when they are hit. If you’re someone who operates as a vulnerable road user — like a bicyclist — know your rights! This statute exists to protect you. And if you are a motorist, consider how your actions

impact those not in vehicles. Cyclists and motorists share a responsibility to protect one another; let’s both do what we can to make Colorado roads safer.

As nicely as I could, I let the man know that his actions could have killed me, a father of six

–Bryan VanMeveren

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Fall brings apple cider, pumpkin patches, fun seasonal outfits, and corn mazes. Unless you are visiting a “haunted” corn maze, you and your family probably won’t be chased by a chainsaw-wielding serial killer while you try to navigate through. However, safety risks are still present. Here are five safety tips to keep the fun coming during your next corn maze experience. Follow the rules. At the entrance to each corn maze, there should be a sign stating the rules for visitors. For the safety of yourself, your children, and others, be sure to read each rule and follow along. Always accompany your kids in the corn maze — it is a maze, after all! Watch for tripping and fire hazards. Keep your eyes peeled for any obstacles on the path, including holes, bumps, ruts, and corn stalks. While navigating a maze, it can be easy to forget to look down while searching for the exit. To prevent fires, you should also avoid smoking and never use matches or lighters. Wear proper footwear. Ensure that you and your family all have proper footwear, preferably closed-toed shoes, while exploring the maze. You never know what kind of critters or potentially harmful hazards may appear in your path. Eat beforehand and stay hydrated. Be sure to eat before setting out into the maze and don’t bring any glass bottles with you, as it can be dangerous if broken. Furthermore, do not consume alcohol before or while enjoying your time at the corn maze. Be prepared. Accidents can happen, usually at the most unexpected times! It is important to always have a first-aid kit handy. Be sure to call 911 in an emergency and let staff know what is going on. Fun for All This Fall 5 CORN MAZE SAFETY TIPS

‘Stayed on Top of Everyone and Everything’

“I was in a bad car accident in the fall of 2020, and the other driver was completely at fault. Dealing with the insurance company on a car settlement was extremely frustrating, and I couldn’t begin to imagine what it would be like for the health coverage. I did some research, talked to friends, and reached out to VanMeveren. I am so glad I did. Karl Hager was my lawyer, and he was wonderful throughout the entire process. He checked in weekly while I was recovering and going through physical therapy, clearly explained the process, and stayed on top of everyone and everything. I am so grateful for his work and effort on my behalf and very pleased with the final settlement.” –Jennifer N.

As long as safety is the top priority this fall, fun will be had by all!

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PROTECTING FORT COLLINS’ ANIMALS Meet the Animal Friends Alliance (And One of Their Adoptable Dogs!)

We’re proud to be part of the Fort Collins community, and we believe our responsibility to this area extends beyond the courtroom and the people we help. One way we accomplish this is by partnering with the Animal Friends Alliance of Fort Collins! This shelter is new to Fort Collins, but its roots are recognizable. The Animal Friends Alliance began in January 2020 as a joint effort between the Fort Collins Cat Rescue & Spay/Neuter Clinic and Animal House Rescue & Grooming. The shelter accepts a limited number of pets to ensure quality in-shelter care based on its financial and space capacities. It also guarantees every animal stays with the shelter until it can find its new home and focuses on spay and neuter efforts to combat overpopulation. In an effort to help more pets, the Animal Friends Alliance began Bringing Paws Together, a fundraising effort to collect $2.3 million to expand its Taft Hill Campus. So far, the campaign has raised more than $1.6 million, and the shelter continues to host events to raise more funds. You can help the alliance by donating today or taking part in one of their fun events!

Pet of the Month: Busby There’s something lovable about Busby! Maybe it’s that he loves to snuggle, or maybe it’s that he can get along with any dog. Whatever it is, we have fallen in love with Busby! This 1-year-old Chihuahua/pug mix is ready for a patient family to take him in and earn his trust. He can be a little shy, but he would enjoy a home with quiet space, no small children, a confident dog who can help him learn about his new home, and owners who wouldn’t mind spoiling him with pets. He will become a loyal companion if given the chance. You can learn more about Busby — and the Animal Friends Alliance — online at SavingAnimalsToday.org . Inquire about adopting Busby by calling 970-484-8516 or by emailing [email protected]. Thank you for helping us save lives!

If you’re looking for a furry friend, visit the alliance at 2321 E. Mulberry St., Ste. 1 or 2200 N. Taft Hill Rd. (And check out this adoptable pet, too!)

SUDOKU

Slow Cooker Squash, Kale, and Sausage Soup

Inspired by SugarAndSoul.co

This healthy, savory soup is the perfect lunch for a cool fall day.

Ingredients:

• •

1 tbsp vegetable oil

• • • • • •

Salt and pepper, to taste 4 cups chicken broth 1 tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp Italian seasoning 3 cups kale, chopped 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

4 Italian chicken sausages, sliced to bite-size pieces

• • •

6 cloves garlic

1 onion, chopped

6–7 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook 4–5 minutes, stirring often, then remove from the pot and set aside. 2. Add garlic and onion to the pot. Sauté 4–5 minutes. Add squash, salt, and pepper. Sauté 8 minutes. 3. In a slow cooker, combine sautéed vegetables, sausage, chicken broth, and seasonings. Cook on low heat for 3 hours and 30 minutes. 4. Open the pot and add the kale. Cook another 20 minutes, then add the red wine vinegar and stir to combine. Cook 10 more minutes, then serve and enjoy!

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123 North College Ave, Suite 112 Fort Collins, CO 80524 970-495-9741 www.vanmeverenlaw.com

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INSIDE This Issue

Let’s Make Colorado’s Roads Safe for All Users Page 1 Corn Maze Safety What Our Clients Are Saying Page 2 Help Us Save More Animals (Including This Pup!) Slow Cooker Squash, Kale, and Sausage Soup Page 3 Celebrate Pizza Month With Local Slices Page 4

3 LOCAL PIZZA PLACES TO TRY FOR PIZZA MONTH October is National Pizza Month, and if there’s one thing you’re sure to find in Fort Collins, it’s great pizza. We narrowed down your options for enjoying a local slice to three great pizzerias, but you really have to try them all to get a taste for the local pizza scene!

Krazy Karl’s Pizza Where: 2620 S. Timberline Rd. and 1124 W. Elizabeth St. When: Every day from 10:30–12 a.m. Website: KrazyKarlsPizza.com

Pizza Casbah Where: 126 W. Laurel St.

Cozzola’s Pizza Where: 1112 Oakridge Dr. When: Every day from 3–8 p.m. Website: CozzolasPizza.com

When: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday–Wednesday, 11–12 a.m. on Thursdays, and 11–1 a.m. Friday– Saturday Website: PizzaCasbah.net There’s a lot to love about Pizza Casbah: Their pizzas are always piping hot. They give back to the community through great organizations, including local schools and support groups. And they were even featured on the Food Network’s “Outrageous Eats” for their 30-inch pizza challenge. Pizza Casbah also pays homage to its founder’s New York roots with thick, large slices that will have you believing you’re in the Big Apple!

For nearly 35 years, Cozzola’s Pizza has created fresh, healthy pizzas for Fort Collins residents. It boasts ingredients that are free of refined sugar, and they avoid pre-sliced cheeses. Cozzola’s is the place to go if you want high-quality pizza on hand-tossed and braided dough. You’ll love the fresh flavors on every slice, and you can’t go wrong with their low-gluten or gluten-free options! It’s the perfect spot for those with food allergies.

If there was ever a pizza place to start a trend, it would be Krazy Karl’s. Known for specialty pizzas like loaded baked potato, meaty lasagna, and Philly cream cheese, Karl’s is also credited as the first pizza place in Fort Collins to top their pies with cream cheese. (Try it — you’ll love it!) For those who want more than pizza, Krazy Karl’s also serves up pretzels, chicken fingers, pizza rolls, salads, and sandwiches. No one in your party will go hungry here!

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