Father and Son Die in California Hiking Accident

By Yosi Yahoudai
Founder and Managing Partner

Who is liable in the event of a fatal hiking accident?

What should have been an enjoyable camping trip turned tragic when a father and son died while hiking near a Northern California lake.  Police officials reports that the pair were hiking along a trail by Shaver Lake when they suddenly fell off a cliff.  The trail was not an official one but is easy to access and commonly walked along.  A similar accident occurred in the area in 2014.

Liability for Hiking Accidents

Hiking is a favorite activity in California.  With its plethora of beautiful hiking trails across the state, hikers can revel in California’s natural wonders.  While hiking is generally a safe pastime, accidents can happen and when they do the results can be catastrophic.  If you are injured on a hike or if your loved one is killed while hiking, you may be able to hold someone else responsible for your damages.  

Wrongful Deaths in City, State, or National Parks

Many parks are owned by the city, state, or federal government.  Park owners are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of their parks, which includes inspections for potential hazards.  If your loved one is killed while hiking on a city trail or in a state or nationally owned park due to a hazardous condition, you may be able to bring a lawsuit against the government entity that owns the park.  Lawsuits against government entities in California are complex and anyone who loses a loved one in a hiking related accident should consult with a Los Angeles wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.  

Wrongful Deaths on Guided Hiking Tours

Tour companies offer hiking expeditions in numerous locations across California.  Tour companies owe a duty of care to all clients and when they breach this duty, they could face legal consequences.  While touring companies attempt to eliminate liability through waivers, waivers cannot provide complete legal protection.  If your loved one is killed on a tour-guided hike, the touring company could be held responsible.  Consult with a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.

About the Author

Yosi Yahoudai is a founder and the managing partner of J&Y. His practice is comprised primarily of cases involving automobile and motorcycle accidents, but he also represents people in premises liability lawsuits, including suits alleging dangerous conditions of public property, third-party criminal conduct, and intentional torts. He also has expertise in cases involving product defects, dog bites, elder abuse, and sexual assault. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California and is admitted to practice in all California State Courts, and the United States District Court for the Southern District of California. If you have any questions about this article, you can contact Yosi by clicking here.