Recreational activities include physical and leisure activities, such as surfing, boating and bike racing (Related: Bike Accidents). As enjoyable as being outdoors can be, there are always physical risks of accidents and injuries. Some accidents involve severe or life-treating injuries to several people at a time.
If you live in Maui, chances are you’ve heard of the dangers of Haleakala bike riding and the fairly regular reporting of fatalities. Many bicycle tours take place in Haleakala National Park throughout the year (Related: Bicycle Accidents). Difficult terrain, vegetation, and tree cover hamper rescue efforts even if there’s an experienced tour guide engaged by a tour company. That’s why these commercial tours were halted by the National Park Service within park boundaries.
There are also instances in which people were seriously injured in a Maui zip-lining accident. Maybe you read about this event which happened at Piiholo Ranch Zipline a few years ago. According to the Maui Police Department, a worker died after falling 150 feet into a gulch. Another zip-lining accident happened in West Maui. The Maui Fire Department revealed details stating that a young man was severely injured after falling.
Common Recreational Accidents and Injuries
Typical activities that are associated with most incidents in Maui include: horseback riding, ziplining, mountain biking, as well as ocean activities like snorkeling, surfing, boating, and kayaking.
The most common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Cuts
- Bruises
- Strains and sprains
- Concussions
- Lacerations, and
- Burns
Depending on how your injury occurred, you may be able to sue or file a lawsuit. This is where recreational accident lawyers come in. The law firm or personal injury attorney at law is supposed to represent clients after determining whether they can file a lawsuit and who was at fault.
Filing a Recreational Accident Claim in Maui
Before participating in recreational activities, the participants are often asked to sign a waiver. It is intended to protect the activity provider from inherent risks. Many people are prone to getting intimidated by these waivers and “reading the fine print” is ignored more often than it is actually read. It is important to determine if the company lists the known risks on the waiver before signing it. Generally, it is something they will do, and they have legal obligations to do so.
Additionally, all recreational companies are required by Hawaii laws to exercise reasonable care. The failure to this duty is regarded as negligence. That being said, you will be able to sue them not only for your injuries but also for your pain, suffering, as well as medical expenses and lost income.
In order to find out more about your legal rights and make a claim for your injuries, you need to follow these steps:
- Call for help and notify the company with whom you booked your activity.
- Take photos of the accident scene (they can serve as evidence) and document the accident in detail.
- Get medical treatment after being examined by medics at the accident scene. Go to the hospital if needed.
- Hire a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible following the event.
Things to Consider Before Hiring a Maui Recreational Accident Attorney
Did you get injured while in Maui? Were you doing something athletic such as surfing or zip lining? Be sure to engage an experienced lawyer as quickly as possible after your injury took place. It is important to act fast and file a lawsuit promptly. Failing to meet injury claim deadlines may cause your lawsuit to be dismissed.
When it comes to filing a negligence lawsuit, the statute of limitations in Hawaii is effective for 2 years after the accident occurred. There is a 6-month deadline that should be met when filing paperwork. Aside from that, your attorney will need some time to get the accident report and investigate your claim.
Contact Cain & Herren attorneys for an evaluation of your recreational injury claim. Our legal team specializing in leisure and recreational activity accidents is committed to representing people injured during different activities. Schedule a consultation now so we can discuss your case!
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