California is home to various magnificent state and national parks, from Yosemite National Park to Sonoma Coast State Park. Though these parks provide many opportunities for recreational fun, they can also be dangerous in some ways. If you have been hurt in an accident at a state or national park in California, our attorneys at Maison Law offer you the representation you need during these difficult times. You should never delay seeking legal help after an accident involving government entities. Please contact us for more information and a no-obligation case consultation.
Duty of State and National Parks
State and national parks in California are supposed to be maintained and kept safe by the California government. The government owes those who utilize these parks for recreational purposes a duty of care to protect them from known hazards. This means that state and national park employees and the government in general should do the following to ensure that parks are kept safe from harm:
- Post warning signs regarding any known hazards
- Keep roads and buildings safe for visitors
- Hire staff to supervise visitors in certain areas, including those with a drowning risk
- Maintain sidewalks and pathways on the park property
- Keep buildings safe from any hazards
If a state or national park has breached their duty of care to you or a family member, you have the right to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim for damages. However, beginning and enduring this process can be daunting and confusing. This is why it is crucial that you have legal help on your side throughout.
Proving Government Liability After a Park-Related Accident
In order to bring a successful claim against the government after an accident at a state or national park, you will need to have extensive evidence on your side. Here are some things that you will need to prove:
- The government-owned property was in a dangerous state at the time of your accident.
- Your injury resulted from the dangerous condition.
- There was a reasonably foreseeable risk that your injury could occur due to the danger.
- The condition resulted from a negligent act or failing to maintain the property in a reasonable amount of time.
Government entities have various resources available to protect themselves, which is why it is always best to have the help of an attorney on your side after an accident.
Acting Quickly When Filing a Government Claim
Time is of the essence as it pertains to government-related claims in California. With a normal personal injury claim, you have to comply with a statute of limitations of two years to file your claim before you are unable to do so. However, government claims are a lot different with a stricter deadline to meet.
In California, a personal injury claim against the government and any of its agencies has to be filed before six months past the date of your injury. This is why it is crucial that you work with an attorney immediately following your accident so that you do not miss out on any financial opportunities. Once the statute of limitations runs out, you are out of options. It is important to keep deadlines in mind throughout this entire process.
Contact a California Park Injury Lawyer Today
If you have sustained harm in an accident at a state or national park, our attorneys at Maison Law are here to help you. We understand that you may be feeling overwhelmed as you bring a claim against a government entity, which is why we offer our resources and knowledge to you at this time. Please do not hesitate to contact us today for a free and no-obligation case consultation so you can get started.
