The Gateway Arch is a must-see landmark for both locals and tourists visiting St. Louis. It is almost impossible to miss it when enjoying the breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Mississippi River. Unfortunately, even with all its surrounding beauty, accidents still happen here.
Whether it be from tripping over uneven pavements, slipping on wet floors in the museum, or even getting hurt in the tram ride, knowing the step you take next is extremely critical. Therefore, after an injury at the Gateway Arch, carefully follow the following legal steps to protect your rights.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even when you feel your injuries are not too bad, you should still see a doctor. Concussions, injury to soft tissue, or internal bleeding may not exhibit signs straight away. Getting checked out not only keeps you safe, but it also makes a medical record that links your injuries to the incident.
Report the Incident Immediately
Immediately after you realize you’re hurt at Gateway Arch, notify a staff member of the facility. It is also important to understand that the Arch is under the National Park Service (NPS).
Reporting the incident helps to create official records of these events. More importantly, make sure to get the name of the person you spoke to and request a copy of the incident report. Records you can later use to file for a compensation claim in case it comes to that.
Collect Proof at the Scene
If you can, take pictures or videos of the scene, especially the thing that wounded you. This could include things like wet floors, uneven pavement, and broken steps. Also, obtain the names and phone numbers of anyone who was there when it happened.
What they say could help you figure out what happened in your accident. Keep track of everything, including your clothes, receipts, and medical bills, because they can all show how much you lost and how much it cost.
Be Careful What You Say
It is common to want to say sorry or downplay the issue, but do not say anything that could be construed as admitting fault. You could be held responsible for something you say without thinking. Saying something like “I should have been more careful” could portray you as the responsible party. Stick to the facts when you communicate with park workers, witnesses, or insurance agents.
Know Who Might Be at Fault
It is not always easy to figure out who is responsible for your injuries at or around the Gateway Arch. For instance, the federal government might be responsible because they run the Arch through the National Park Service. Similarly, if maintenance, cleaning, or building work made things unsafe, private contractors might be held responsible. You can sue the companies that made the tram or elevator if they hurt you because they were broken.
Each of these scenarios has its own legal steps and time limits. For example, according to the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), you have to file a specific administrative claim before you may sue the federal government.
Get a Personal Injury Lawyer
A good personal injury lawyer can assist you in finding out who is at fault, getting evidence, and satisfying the FTCA’s rigorous filing deadlines. You usually have two years from the date of the event to file an administrative claim.
If the government denies your claim, you have six months to sue them in federal court. A lawyer who knows how things work in your area and at the federal level can help you file your claim effectively to safeguard your rights from start to finish.
Keep Track of Your Costs and Recovery
Write down all of your medical appointments, therapy sessions, and other charges that are relevant to your injury. Keep a notebook where you write down how much pain you are in, what you cannot do, and how the injury affects your daily life. This record can help you get more money for your pain and suffering.
Conclusion
Accidents can happen anywhere, even at well-known landmarks like the Gateway Arch. But if they do, recognizing your rights and responding immediately might help you get better both physically and financially. As such, get proof, notify the police about what happened, and talk to a personal injury lawyer who understands the legal steps to take next.
