Mark Casto | December 22, 2025 | Personal Injury Lawyer Near Columbus, Georgia
The Chattahoochee RiverWalk is a 22-mile walking and biking area along the river in Columbus, and it is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the region. Walkers, runners, cyclists, and dog owners enjoy the paved trails year-round. However, accidents can still occur even in the most scenic settings.
If you and your dog get injured at the Chattahoochee RiverWalk in Columbus, GA, you may have legal options to recover compensation for your losses. Keep reading to learn more.
Common Causes of RiverWalk Injuries
The RiverWalk attracts thousands of visitors each year. With heavy foot traffic, cycling, and leashed dogs sharing the path, the potential for accidents increases. Some injuries result from the actions of other trail users, while others stem from hazardous conditions along the path.
Situations that can lead to injuries on the trail include:
- Collisions with cyclists
- Tripping hazards from cracked pavement, tree roots, or uneven surfaces
- Dog attacks from aggressive animals that are not properly restrained
- Slip and fall accidents caused by wet surfaces or debris
- Defective playground equipment or park structures
Determining the cause of your injury is the first step toward understanding who may be responsible. An attorney can help investigate the circumstances and identify the root cause of your accident.
Who May Be Liable for Your Injuries?
Liability depends on what caused the accident and who, if anyone, can be held responsible for it. Georgia law recognizes several categories of potentially responsible parties when injuries occur on public trails and parks.
Property owners and managers have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. Under Georgia law, property owners are required to exercise ordinary care to maintain safe conditions for their visitors. This includes repairing known hazards and warning people about dangers that cannot be immediately fixed.
The City of Columbus maintains the RiverWalk. If the city knew about a dangerous condition and failed to address it, you might have a claim against the municipality. However, claims against government entities are subject to special rules and shorter deadlines. In these cases, it’s usually best to hire an attorney to handle the nuances on your behalf.
Other individuals can also be liable. A cyclist who rides recklessly and hits you on a trail could be held responsible for your injuries. A dog owner whose pet attacks you or your dog may face liability under Georgia’s animal bite laws.
Recovering Compensation for Your Injuries
If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation. Georgia allows injured parties to seek damages for both economic and non-economic losses. The goal is to restore you to the position you would have been in had the accident not occurred.
Damages in a personal injury claim can cover things such as:
- Medical expenses for emergency care, surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working
- Pain and suffering for physical discomfort and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life if the injury affects your daily activities
Documenting your losses strengthens your claim. Keep records of all medical bills, pay stubs showing missed work, and notes about how the injury has affected your quality of life.
What Should I Do After an Injury at the Chattahoochee RiverWalk?
Start by seeking medical attention for yourself and veterinary care for your dog. Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions worsen over time. Medical records also serve as important documentation for any future claims. You should also report the incident to the appropriate authorities.
Consider collecting the following information:
- Photos of the hazard, your injuries, and your dog’s injuries
- Contact information for any witnesses who saw what happened
- The name and address of anyone else involved in the accident
- Details about the other dog and its owner, if an animal attack occurred
This evidence becomes valuable if you decide to pursue a claim. Conditions at the scene can change quickly, so documenting everything immediately preserves proof of what happened. You should also consult an attorney as soon as possible after an incident at the Chattahoochee RiverWalk so they can advise you further based on your specific circumstances.
Contact Our Columbus Personal Injury Lawyer at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm for a Free Consultation
An accident on the Chattahoochee RiverWalk can leave you facing medical bills, veterinary bills, lost income, and pain that disrupts your daily life. If you need help after an accident, call Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to set up a free consultation. An experienced Columbus personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and help you determine what to do next.
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus personal injury lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808, Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030