I know several states have the requirement for stands left on public land to be labeled/identified by the owner. Has anyone ever experienced or heard of a case in which someone other than the owner or authorized user was using the stand, was injured from a fall, stand failure, etc....and sought damages or filed claims against the stand owner? I take great care to ensure they are safe enough for me to hunt, but that doesn't mean an accident or product failure couldn't occur. I wonder if... Joe Schmoe climbs into one of those stands, it fails in some way and he is injured, he could file a claim against me personally as the stand would now have my identification information? Thanks in advance for your responses.....
It would seem common sense would dictate that the stand owner would not be liable, then again we all know how the legal system works in this country. Just put a sign on the stand that says unauthorized use is at the users own risk.
I've heard about land owner getting sued. but because pa want us hunter to tag tree stands on public land now who would be reasonable?
That is a great question! Knowing somewhat how laws and legal systems work, I wouldn't be surprised if the stand owner is responsible, pending the injured wants to sue. In Maryland, if a burglar breaks into your home, injures themselves (ie: fell and broke a leg, cut themself on the window they just broke to gain access, ect) then they can sue you for damages. It is the most ludacris crap ever. I think all laws should have "if injured while committing a crime or due to committing a crime" exceptions/exemptions. If I break into your house and fall, breaking my leg.. then you should not be liable because I was committing a crime. If I climb into YOUR tree stand and hurt myself, then you should not be liable because I was trespassing.. plain and simple.
