What Should I Do If I Got Hurt At the Southbank Riverwalk?
Jacksonville’s Southbank Riverwalk is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The 1.25-mile boardwalk offers scenic views of the city skyline and riverboats traveling along the St. Johns River, plus a kayak launch.
However, accidents can happen anywhere, including crowded city parks and boardwalks. If you’ve been injured while visiting Southbank Riverwalk, consult a personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your legal options and seek the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Injuries on the Southbank Riverwalk
Injuries at the Southbank Riverwalk can occur for various reasons, including:
- Slip and fall accidents: Slippery surfaces, uneven concrete, or inadequate maintenance can lead to dangerous falls.
- Inadequate lighting: Poor lighting can increase the risk of trips and falls, especially at night. It can also increase the risk of crime and may rise to the level of negligent security.
- Crowds and obstructions: Large crowds and obstacles can create hazardous conditions for visitors.
- Scooter and bicycle accidents: Collisions with bicycles or electric scooters on the walkways can result in serious injuries.
- Crime: Sadly, injuries can also be the result of assault or other crimes on the Riverwalk.
State and local governments have a duty to make public parks safe for visitors. This involves maintaining concrete boardwalks and sidewalks, playgrounds, and trails. They must also take reasonable measures to ensure that visitors are safe from crime. This may include providing adequate lighting and establishing park rules and regulations. However, when a government fails to take these measures, injuries can result.
If negligent maintenance or park operations caused your injuries, the City of Jacksonville may be liable.
Immediate Steps To Take If You Are Injured At the Southbank Riverwalk in Jacksonville, FL
Your health should always be the top priority. Regardless of the severity of your injury, seek medical care immediately. Not only does this ensure that you receive the necessary treatment, but it also creates a medical record of your injuries. This can be vital for any potential legal claims.
If you sustained severe injuries, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.
If you can, gather evidence at the scene. Take pictures of the hazard that caused your accident and your injuries. Get the contact information for any witnesses to your accident.
Be sure to keep track of all expenses and losses related to your injury, including medical bills and lost wages. Detailed records will help build a strong claim for compensation.
How To Report Your Southbank Riverwalk Accident and Submit an Injury Claim
If negligence caused your accident, the City of Jacksonville may be liable. The city can be held responsible for failing to maintain or fix known hazards, like crumbling concrete. Florida law allows you to pursue compensation from the responsible local government agency.
After seeking medical care, the next step is reporting the accident. A report can be submitted to the following departments:
- Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services (JaxParks)
- Jacksonville Department of Risk Management: Submit a claim by calling (904) 630-CITY, or (904) 255-5344, or through MyJax.
- Florida Department of Financial Services
The procedures and deadlines associated with a claim against a government entity can be complex. You should work with an attorney to ensure that your case is handled correctly and within the applicable time limits.
Consult a Jacksonville Personal Injury Attorney As Soon As Possible After an Accident at the Southbank Riverwalk
Accidents on public property can involve complex premises liability laws. There are also specific rules that must be followed to make a claim against a government entity. Navigating a personal injury case can be challenging, especially when it involves public property like the Southbank Riverwalk.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence and submit your injury claim to the city or other liable parties. Your legal team will ensure that all deadlines and specific rules are met and handle the paperwork necessary to make a claim. Your lawyer will act in your best interests to negotiate on your behalf and seek a fair settlement for your damages.
We have extensive experience handling claims involving public property and Jacksonville city parks. If you have been hurt on the Southbank Riverwalk, we are here to help you explore your legal options for pursuing fair compensation.
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167