There is a lot to do in Washington, D.C. and the surrounding area. From historical sites to breweries and wineries to nature and boating activities, there are a number of exciting activities that await anyone willing to hop in the car and go for a quick drive. In many cases, tour companies are eager to take visitors on guided tours of these areas.
While no one wants to think about getting injured while on a guided tour, the reality is that it does happen on occasion. When someone is injured on a guided tour, the tour guide, the tour company, and potentially several other parties may be legally responsible for the injuries to the guest, depending on the surrounding circumstances.
Of course, the mere fact that someone is injured while on a tour will not necessarily give rise to liability. However, if the surrounding circumstances suggest that the guide was somehow negligent, liability may be appropriate. Additionally, if a guide is aware of a danger but fails to warn tour-goers, there may also be a case for legal liability.
In some cases, tour companies will ask patrons to sign a damage-release waiver, absolving the company of any liability in the event of an injury. While these contracts may prevent an injured party from holding the tour company liable, in many cases, these contracts are unenforceable. Anyone injured while on a guided tour should consult with a dedicated personal injury attorney prior to filing a case.
One Woman Killed in Florida Boat Accident
Earlier this month, one woman was killed when she was involved in a boating accident while on a guided tour of the Everglades. According to a local news report, the woman and her family booked the tour through an agency, met the boat’s operator at a central location, and then departed. While on the tour, the boat left the normal route because another vessel had broken down. As the boat returned to the route, it came to a sudden and unexpected stop. The woman was thrown from the boat and became trapped under the boat’s engine. She was pronounced dead a short time later.
Authorities are conducting an investigation into the fatal boat accident in order to learn more about why the boat came to a sudden stop. It has not been determined whether the boat’s operator will face any charges for his role in the accident.
Have You Been Injured While on a Guided Tour?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured while on any kind of guided tour, you may be entitled to monetary compensation through a Washington, D.C. personal injury lawsuit. The skilled injury attorneys at the Washington, D.C. law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have decades of collective experience assisting their clients in pursuing the compensation they deserve. Call 410-654-3600 today to schedule a free consultation with an attorney to discuss your case.
More Blog Posts:
Plaintiff’s Slip-and-Fall Case Against Fast Food Restaurant Allowed to Proceed, Washington DC Injury Lawyer Blog, May 9, 2017
Track-and-Field Spectator Awarded $350K after Being Struck By Discus, Washington DC Injury Lawyer Blog, April 28, 2017