The Gateway Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States and a major destination for tourists visiting St. Louis, Missouri. While most visits go smoothly, accidents can and do happen at this popular site. Whether you slipped on a wet floor, were injured in an elevator malfunction, or were struck by falling debris, it’s important to understand your legal rights after an injury at a national monument.
If you were hurt at or near the Gateway Arch, Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers can help. Our St. Louis personal injury attorneys have 21 years of combined experience and have recovered millions for injured clients. We offer free consultations to help you learn what to do next.
What Should I Do After an Injury at the Gateway Arch?
An accident at a public site like the Gateway Arch (also referred to as the Gateway to the West) can be stressful and confusing. However, what you do in the minutes and hours afterward can impact your ability to file a successful legal claim.
If you’ve been hurt, here are a few steps you should take:
- Report the incident to Gateway Arch personnel or park rangers
- Request medical attention and make sure your injuries are documented
- Take photos and videos of the scene, including hazards like spills, broken stairs, or missing signage
- Get contact information from witnesses who saw what happened
- Avoid giving statements that imply you were at fault
- Reach out to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights
The Gateway Arch is operated by the National Park Service, which is a federal agency. This could make the claims process more complex due to additional rules and deadlines that apply when suing the government.
Who Could Be Liable for My Injuries After a Gateway Arch Accident?
One of the most important parts of any personal injury case is determining who is responsible for the accident.
At the Gateway Arch, several parties might share liability, depending on the facts:
- The federal government (U.S. Department of the Interior or National Park Service, if negligence by park employees contributed to your injuries
- A private contractor hired to maintain or clean the property
- A product manufacturer if defective equipment caused your injury (such as faulty elevator doors)
- Another visitor if their reckless or intentional behavior led to your accident
Holding the federal government accountable is different from suing a private property owner. In these cases, you may need to file a claim under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA), which includes strict notice requirements and filing deadlines. Eason Law can walk you through every step.
What Types of Accidents Happen at the St. Louis Arch?
With thousands of visitors every day, accidents can happen in a variety of ways.
Some of the most common incidents include:
- Slip and fall accidents on wet or poorly maintained surfaces
- Elevator or tram injuries, especially in malfunction scenarios
- Trip hazards from uneven stairs, escalators, or walkways
- Injuries caused by falling objects or debris during maintenance work
- Heat exhaustion or dehydration from a lack of shaded rest areas
- Parking lot accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles
Not all of these incidents lead to valid personal injury claims, but many do. It depends on whether someone else’s negligence played a role in what happened. At the least, however, it’s likely worth your time to reach out for a free case review.
Contact our St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyers from Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in St. Louis, MO, today. We have two convenient locations in Missouri, including St. Louis and Richmond Heights.
We proudly serve St. Louis County and its surrounding areas.
Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Louis Office
10 S Broadway #560
St. Louis, MO 63102
(314) 932-1066
Eason Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Richmond Heights Office
1034 S Brentwood Blvd Penthouse 1-C
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
(314) 463-4173