Over thousands of people visit the Utah State Capitol every single year. The Capitol allows self-guided tours anytime during operating hours, and there are no limits to the number of guests that can be in a group. While that policy enables them to accommodate a huge number of visitors each year, it can also create risks.
If you suffer a personal injury in Salt Lake City while visiting the Capitol, here’s what you can do.
Seek Immediate Medical Care
The first priority after any injury is your safety and well-being. Call 911 if the injury is severe or life-threatening. Even if the injury seems minor, it is wise to get checked by a healthcare provider. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, may not show immediate symptoms.
Prompt medical evaluation ensures you get proper care and creates a medical record that may be important if you pursue compensation. Make sure that you follow up with your provider and complete any recommended treatments or physical therapy. You’ll also need to save any receipts so that those costs can be calculated when seeking compensation.
Report the Accident
When an accident occurs on state property, you need to report it. Notify Capitol staff about what happened and ask them to make an official report. If possible, get a copy of the report or at least a case number for your own records.
Make notes about what happened, such as the date and time, as well as where you were on the property. Every detail matters, including the weather and time of day. The more information you can document, the easier it will be to seek justice.
Document the Scene
Take photos or videos of the location where the injury occurred.
Focus on hazards, such as:
- Wet floors without warning signs
- Uneven stairs or broken handrails
- Poor lighting or maintenance issues
Also, collect contact information from witnesses who saw the accident. Individuals who saw what happened can be valuable resources if you need to file a personal injury claim or take your case before a judge.
Understand Liability for Public Property Accidents
Premises liability can be complex when on public or government property. There are strict deadlines and limitations for filing a claim. Typically, you have one year from the date of the accident to file your claim. If you miss this deadline, you may be unable to recover compensation. While there are exceptions to the one-year rule, don’t rely on them.
Waiting can also cause valuable evidence to be lost. Act as quickly as possible to preserve evidence and witness testimony that could positively influence the outcome of your case.
Common Injuries at the Utah State Capitol
Visitors may face risks such as:
- Slips and falls on the polished floors or outdoor steps
- Vehicle accidents in the Capitol parking areas
- Pedestrian accidents near surrounding streets
These accidents can result in fractures, head trauma, or long-term mobility issues. While the Capitol is a well-maintained area, it is also incredibly crowded with foot traffic.
Speak With an Experienced Salt Lake City Personal Injury Lawyer
After an accident at the Utah State Capitol, navigating the legal system can feel overwhelming—especially when government liability laws come into play. An experienced Salt Lake City personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options, gather the evidence needed to support your claim, and make sure all deadlines are met.
Having skilled legal representation ensures that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance at securing fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured at the Utah State Capitol, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The team at McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Protect your rights and take the first step toward recovery by reaching out today.
We serve in Austin, TX, and Salt Lake City, UT.
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Austin, TX Office
502 W 14th St, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-0222
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Salt Lake City, UT Office
650 S 500 W Suite 290, Salt Lake City, UT 84104
(385) 462-7630
