According to a recent article, Acadia National Park has experienced a troubling cluster of incidents in late June, resulting in two fatalities and one serious injury. On June 23, a 20‑year‑old climber fell about 20 feet on Champlain Mountain’s South Wall and was rescued by fellow climbers before being treated by rangers. Two days later, on June 25, another hiker collapsed and struck his head near the summit of Cedar Swamp Mountain; despite being airlifted to Bangor’s Eastern Maine Medical Center, he later died. Finally, on June 30, park rangers assisted the Maine Marine Patrol after a sailboat ran aground off Isle au Haut, where a Canadian man was found dead. Park Superintendent Kevin Schneider expressed how “devastating” it is to experience multiple such tragedies in quick succession and urged visitors to exercise increased caution during hikes and outings.
Maine is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with thousands of miles of hiking trails, scenic state parks, and access to some of the most breathtaking areas of Acadia National Park. While outdoor recreation is a cherished pastime, it can also come with serious risks. Accidents and injuries on trails, in parks, and during hikes are more common than many realize—and they can raise complex legal issues when negligence or unsafe conditions are involved.
Common Causes of Hiking and Park Injuries
Although some injuries may be the result of natural hazards or a simple misstep, many outdoor accidents occur due to preventable dangers. Examples include:
- Poorly Maintained Trails: Erosion, overgrowth, or hidden obstacles can make trails hazardous. Landowners—whether private or public—may be liable if they fail to maintain designated paths.
- Inadequate Signage: Visitors may unknowingly wander into dangerous areas if proper warnings and trail markers are missing or misleading.
- Falling Trees or Loose Rocks: While nature is unpredictable, in some cases, park managers or property owners have prior notice of unstable conditions and fail to act.
- Faulty Park Infrastructure: Collapsing footbridges, unsafe lookouts, or damaged steps can lead to serious falls.
- Negligent Tour or Adventure Companies: Guides who take hikers into unsafe conditions without proper equipment or training may be liable for resulting injuries.
- Wildlife Incidents: While rare, encounters with animals—particularly when campers are not properly warned—can cause harm.
Liability in Trail and Park Accidents
Determining who is legally responsible for injuries sustained in a park or on a trail depends on a number of factors, including who owns or manages the land. Parks may be controlled by federal, state, or municipal agencies, or private organizations or individuals. Each has its own legal protections and responsibilities.
- Public Land: Claims against government entities (like the National Park Service or Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry) are subject to special rules, including limited timeframes for filing a claim and possible immunity from certain lawsuits. However, claims may still proceed if gross negligence is involved.
- Private Landowners: Many hiking trails in Maine cross private land. While Maine’s “landowner liability” laws protect private owners who allow public recreational use without charging fees, this protection may not apply if the owner acts with gross negligence or intentionally creates a hazardous condition.
- Commercial Operators: Businesses that offer guided hikes, gear rentals, or outdoor excursions have a duty to keep their customers safe. Failing to provide adequate instruction, safety gear, or warnings can lead to legal liability.
What to Do After an Outdoor Injury
If you or a loved one is injured while hiking or visiting a Maine park, your health and safety come first. Once you are safe, here are a few steps you should consider:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Even minor injuries can worsen without treatment.
- Document the Scene – Take photos or videos of the trail, hazard, or accident site if possible.
- Gather Witnesses – Get names and contact information of anyone who saw the incident.
- Report the Incident – If on public land, notify the ranger station or park authority. If the injury occurred during a guided activity, inform the tour operator.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney – Navigating legal claims involving public lands or outdoor injuries can be complicated. An experienced lawyer can help evaluate your case and ensure your rights are protected.
We Can Help
At Peter Thompson & Associates, we understand the unique challenges of outdoor injury cases in Maine. Whether you were hurt while hiking in Acadia, injured by a defective trail structure, or involved in an accident during a guided wilderness tour, we are prepared to investigate the circumstances, identify liable parties, and pursue compensation for your injuries.
You shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of medical bills, lost income, or long-term disability if your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. Call us today at 207-874-0909 or visit our website for a free consultation; let us help you get the justice you deserve.