Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers | February 6, 2025 | Personal Injury
Kanawha State Forest is a state park in West Virginia and a favorite destination for residents and visitors alike. However, a fun day outdoors can quickly become a challenging time if you or a loved one are injured. Knowing what to do in these circumstances is critical to protecting your health and legal rights.
About Kanawha State Forest
With more than 60 miles of hiking and biking trails, Kanawha State Forest is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It was originally used for mining and logging activities. The West Virginia Conservation Commission purchased over 6,700 acres of the land in the 1930s. It built out the park’s infrastructure, including roads, picnic shelters, a dam, and a superintendent’s residence. It was operated as a camp until 1942. Today, it is open to the public for camping, picnicking, and observing wildlife. It also features a nature center that is operated year-round and provides educational programming.
Common Accidents that Can Happen in State Parks
State parks can be an affordable way to enjoy the outdoors, but they can also be dangerous.
The following are common reasons accidents and injuries occur at State Parks:
- Activity-related injuries – Visitors may be injured in state parks when participating in various activities, such as cycling, fishing, participating in watersports, or hiking.
- Slips and falls – Park visitors can slip and fall, especially when walking surfaces are uneven or poorly maintained. Slips and falls can cause serious injuries, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
- Faulty equipment – State park visitors can be injured due to poorly maintained facilities and equipment. Governments have a responsibility to maintain public facilities in good condition, including bathrooms, playgrounds, and other structures. By routinely checking and maintaining equipment, they can prevent injuries.
- Criminal acts – Some criminals use state parks as a feeding ground to commit crimes, including physical and sexual assault.
If you suffered any of these injuries while visiting Kanawha State Forest, you can take steps to protect your legal rights.
Report the Accident
The first thing you should do is report the accident to the staff. If possible, provide a written report and ask for a copy.
Seek Medical Attention
The most important thing is your health. You should not delay in seeking medical treatment. You may need to call for an ambulance. Keep all your medical records and bills to help show the financial impact your injuries have on your life.
Document the Scene
Take pictures of the conditions that contributed to the accident. Photograph your injuries. If any witnesses observed the incident, ask for their names and phone numbers.
Keep All Documents Related to the Accident
Personal injuries can have a significant economic impact on you.
Keep all documents, records, and evidence of your damages, including:
- Medical bills
- Prescription receipts
- Receipts for over-the-counter supplies
- Check stubs
- Letters from your employer regarding lost income
- Pain journal entries
Bring these documents with you to your initial consultation with your lawyer.
You should also notify the government of any legal claim 30 days before you file your action. Your lawyer can help provide this notice.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer if You’re Injured in Kanawha State Forest
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you with the next steps involved in your legal claim. They can advise you on what to do – and what not to do.
You could be owed compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how a personal injury lawyer can help with your case.
Contact the Personal Injury Law Firm of Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers, to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have convenient locations in Charleston, Beckley, Morgantown, WV.
Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers – Charleston
746 Myrtle Rd
Charleston, WV 25314
(304) 346-5990
Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers – Beckley
101 N Kanawha St, Suite 101
Beckley, WV 25801
(304) 252-5990
Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers – Morgantown
453 Suncrest Towne Centre Drive, Suite 300
Morgantown, WV 26505
(304) 225-5990
