Utah Judge Dismisses Bear Attack Lawsuit

A 4th District Court judge has dismissed a wrongful death lawsuit that was filed by the parents of a 12-year-old boy who was killed by a bear when camping four years ago.

The victim was camping in the Timpanogos mountain area when the black bear entered the family campsite that was set up a mile from the Timpooneke Campground in June 2007.

As a result of their sons death, his parents filed a civil lawsuit against the State of Utah, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to name a few in 2008. Their defense was that they failed to warn people that a dangerous bear was located in the area, which had previously attacked other campers.

However, the judge presiding over the case ruled on the side of the state, which argued the case should be thrown out because there was no specific duty owed to the plaintiffs. The judge also sided with the state and concluded that a bear is a natural condition on land.

While this is indeed a tragic death of a 12-year-old boy those who are thinking about or have done so will know that when it comes to territory where bears live, it is important to think about the safety implications at hand. In order to avoid such an attack from taking place the necessary safety measures should be put into place to ensure everyones safety.

One way of doing this is through the use of bear spray. This self defense canister is the ideal alternative to a firearm as it is non-lethal and won’t harm the bear targeted. Not only that, but unlike a firearm which could run the risk of simply harming the bear and not killing it, thus angering the bear further, bear spray will only temporarily subdue the bear forcing them to retreat from the area unharmed.

Nowadays, it’s not uncommon to find people purchasing the spray canister as a way of increasing their safety against a potentially aggressive animal. When camping in an area that has bears simply knowing you have bear spray on you will boost your confidence. It will also mean that you are one step ahead and prepared for the likelihood that an attack may occur.

By being ready you can take the steps to avoid a confrontation with an animal that has stumbled upon your path. Furthermore, you can avoid any harm coming to those with you as well.