City parks provide the public with a great place to enjoy outdoor and recreational activities. The selection of parks across the country is varied and includes fun options for guests of all ages. City park amenities can include public playgrounds, courts and fields for sports such as basketball and tennis, public pools, wharfs and beachers, trails for hiking, running, and biking, and much more.
For this blog post, we’re looking at what happens when someone is injured in a city park. Clients often ask us whether the owners or landlords of the park, in this case the municipal or federal government, can be held responsible for their injuries. If so, they are entitled to compensation, which could make a world of difference when dealing with costly medical bills and other complications that arise from unexpected accidents and injuries.
The answer to this is that it depends on a variety of factors. As we have previously discussed, personal injury cases require that the plaintiff is able to prove negligence in order for the defendant to be held liable for damages.
Proving Neglect and Liability
If you or someone you know was injured at a public park, it is important that you immediately file a complaint as soon as possible. The longer you take, the more difficult it will be for you to secure any form of compensation. This is because, in order for you to have a case, you need to demonstrated that the city has either failed to properly care for the park and all of its facilities, or that it was negligent in removing potential threats and hazards such as damaged equipment, fallen branches, and more. In this context, your case would fall under the overarching category of premises liability.
Even if you’re unable to clearly trace your accident to negligent actions on behalf of the government, we still recommend that you consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney in California. An attorney can wield his/her expertise to identify other ways to prove neglect, such as city maintenance crew failing to maintain the park within a reasonable timespan.
Do You Need to Speak With a Knowledgeable Personal Injury Attorney in California?
Remember, this information is meant to be taken as general information and is in no way a replacement for qualified legal advice. If you have any additional questions, and to speak with a reputable personal injury attorney, know that you can always reach out to us directly at the Law Offices of Dean Petrulakis. Call us today to schedule a free initial consultation.