Summer has arrived, and the long days and agreeable weather beckon us to spend more time in the great outdoors. If all goes well, we’ll come home with dirt under our nails and campfire stories to tell. However, camping does present certain personal safety hazards that you should be aware of. If you plan to camp or send your children to camp this summer, read on to learn your rights and responsibilities in the event of an accident causing camping injuries.

Summer Camp Injuries

For many parents, summer camps are a welcome respite from the chaos of kids running wild on school vacation. Kids also enjoy the opportunity to spend time outside with kids their own age, and maybe even learn a new skill, like archery or fishing. But the promise of a peaceful home for a week in August does come with its own share of risk.

The Most Common Types of Summer Camp Injuries

According to first aid supplier MFASCO, summer campers are most likely to sustain the following injuries:

• Sickness
• Trips and falls
• Cuts
• Burns
• Rashes and bites
• Sunburn and heat stroke
• Water and pool-related accidents

Whenever possible, summer camps should practice close supervision and have protocols in place to treat the inevitable scrapes and bruises. But if a child sustains a more serious injury at summer camp, who is at fault?

Like many legal questions, the answer is, “it depends.” The camp facility has an obligation to keep campers reasonably safe through proper training of staff, supervising children, and conducting a careful review of the premises and activities. However, particularly for riskier activities such as archery, you may be required to sign a waiver that absolves the camp of liability for injuries your child sustains while participating in the sport.

However, if the camp is negligent and fails to provide a safe environment for your child resulting in your child getting injured, you may be entitled to compensation. Worcester camping injury lawyer Peter Ventura can help you seek justice.

Camping Injuries

Summer camps, which typically own their property, have a responsibility under premises liability law to maintain a safe environment for their guests. However, what happens if you’re hiking or camping in a state or national park? In certain cases, individuals may file a personal injury suit against the federal government, but the regulations can be strict. It’s important to consult an experienced personal injury attorney if you are considering filing suit against the government. At private campgrounds, a personal injury claim will be more straightforward.

The Most Common Types of Camping Injuries

The most likely camping injuries are the most obvious: trips and falls, animal bites, burns, and collisions with ATVs top the list. Even experienced campers, however, may not consider the possibility of two other scenarios where a camper could become severely injured: falling trees and defective gear.

Falling Trees

It may sound extremely unlikely, but trees and tree branches fall on tents more often than you might expect—and a falling tree can cause serious traumatic injury. If a healthy tree falls, the campground operator may not be liable. However, if a diseased or dead tree falls, there is an expectation that the campground must maintain trees and remove diseased or dangerous growth. If you have been injured by a falling tree while camping, consult an experienced attorney to discuss the specific details of your case.

Injuries from Defective Camping and Outdoors Gear

Defective camping gear can give rise to serious injury. Tents, sleeping bags, and blankets may become flammable; stoves can leak and catch fire; and defective climbing gear could cause a serious fall.

Consult an Experienced Worcester Personal Injury Attorney

Camping should be a fun experience that leaves you and your children with fond memories. If you or your child has been injured in a camping incident, we can help you pursue fair compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.