Outdoor/adventure accident claims

Outdoor activities such as abseiling, zip wiring, assault courses, ice climbing and mountain biking have become increasingly popular over the years.

Many people participate in these activities for the adrenaline rush, camaraderie and sense of achievement. They enjoy a challenge and in the company of like minded people.

Another related area is corporate team building. This is viewed as an ideal way of seeing how people interact and work together as well as helping to build confidence.

Anyone who undertakes these types of activities understands the risks. They take responsibility for their actions and understand that there is a chance that they could become injured whilst doing so.

The problem arises when someone becomes injured through no fault of their own.

The organisers or owners of venues which run these activities have a responsibility to ensure that their clients are protected against any extreme or unnecessary danger. They will have guidelines and measures in place so that their clients understand the risks and how to protect against them.

But if these are missing or are inadequate then a serious injury can occur. In some cases it can be fatal.

Types of outdoor or adventure activity injuries

More and more people are participating in outdoor or adventure activities which mean an increase in injuries. These activities are physical in nature which requires the person doing then to have a reasonable level of fitness.

Any activity within this category is accompanied by instruction. The reason for this is that many of these pursuits are potentially dangerous. Anyone undertaking these activities needs to know what they are doing, and to be able to cope if something goes wrong.

There are a variety of causes of an accident which include:

• Lack of fitness
• Poor/no instruction
• Lack of preparation
• Defective equipment
• Perilous terrain

These are some of the most common causes of an outdoor/adventure injury.

If you have become injured as a result of any of these then you may be able to claim compensation.

Making a claim for compensation for an outdoor/adventure accident

Find a personal injury law firm or a solicitor who has expertise and knowledge of the outdoor/adventure training fields and can advise you further about these. He or she may have participated in these activities themselves so will have a greater understanding of your claim.

They will assess your claim to see if there are suitable grounds for making a claim for compensation. If he or she thinks that there is then a claim will be pursued.

Compensation can help to cover the costs of any treatment or rehabilitation that you have needed as part of your recovery. It can also help your family who may have had to care you during this time or arrange for specialist care and support.

Plus you might have had to take time off work due to your injury which can result in a drop in your earnings and your pension rights. This reduction also affects your family’s income and day to day living.

If you are awarded compensation then this can provide some peace of mind.

The claims process is discussed in more detail in our making a claim for compensation section.

Time limit for claiming compensation for an outdoor/adventure accident

There are strict time limits for personal injury claims which are usually 3 years from the date of the accident or illness.

The time limit for your claim will be explained to you by your personal injury lawyer or solicitor.