Trailblazing with Caution: Who’s Liable For Hiking Injuries?

By Eugene Bruno on June 30, 2023

San Diego has miles and miles of hiking trails, from easy coastal strolls to extreme mountain hikes. But what happens if you get hurt on a hike? Hiking injuries ranging from twisted ankles to broken bones can be serious, even requiring surgery in some cases. Can you make a claim for hiking injuries?

Do Landowners Always Owe Responsibility?

Landowners (both public and private landowners) have no duty to make their property safe for hiking, bicycling, or other recreational uses. Unless you were specifically invited onto the property or paid a fee for a recreational activity, generally speaking, the landowner would not be liable for your injury. California law does not require landowners to ensure that their land is safe, nor does it make them responsible for injuries that happen on their land just because they own the land.

It’s About Active Management

However, a landowner can be sued for how they manage their land or the activities they permit on their land.

For example, if a landowner is operating a vehicle or machinery on their land, they will be responsible for any injuries they cause by acting negligently. Likewise, if the landowner has improved the property, say by planting trees, the landowner may be responsible if he fails to maintain the trees and a branch falls and hurts you. Likewise, if a landowner knows that a dangerous condition exists on their property (for example, an abandoned building) and they willfully or maliciously fail to warn against such a dangerous condition, they may be liable for the injuries that result.

In these cases, the landowner’s liability arises from the operation and maintenance of the land and not simply because of land ownership.

Hikers Must Exercise Caution

Hikers also have a responsibility to exercise caution and act responsibly while enjoying outdoor activities. Landowners may argue that hikers assume certain risks by engaging in hiking and therefore share some degree of responsibility for their own injuries.

Factors such as hiker experience, adherence to trail rules and safety guidelines, and the presence of warning signs can influence the determination of liability. It is crucial for hikers to be aware of their surroundings, follow trail regulations, and use common sense to minimize the risk of injury.

So What If You Were Injured While Hiking?

If you are injured while hiking, take these steps to protect yourself:

• Don’t delay in seeking medical attention as necessary. Photograph your injuries as well as the scene of the incident and gather witness information. If you are too injured to do so, ask someone else to do so.
• Document any hazardous condition that may have contributed to your injury, and cooperate with authorities during any investigation.
• Consult an experienced personal injury lawyer who can review your documentation and provide guidance and legal representation.

Hiking injuries can occur despite everyone’s best efforts, and understanding the legal landscape surrounding landowner liability for these injuries is crucial for hikers and landowners alike. By recognizing the responsibilities of landowners in maintaining safe hiking environments and acknowledging hikers’ duties to act responsibly, we can work towards minimizing risks and ensuring a safer outdoor experience for everyone.

Eugene Bruno & Associates May Be Able to Help

Remember, if you encounter a potential liability issue related to a hiking or other outdoor injury, consulting the experienced San Diego personal injury lawyers at Eugene Bruno & Associates can help protect your rights and navigate the complexities of the law. We can be reached at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688).

Stay safe, be aware, and enjoy your outdoor adventure!