There are many large, successful farm operations in Wisconsin. Some of them are open to the public as a means of diversifying their revenue stream. They may offer horse-drawn sleigh rides in the winter or may erect corn mazes in the autumn months. They may offer close encounters with adorable animals or the opportunity to pick fruit and vegetables.
Heading to a local farm for a family adventure can lead to lifetime memories that everyone treasures. Unfortunately, that same experience could also potentially cause serious physical injuries. Incidents while visiting a farm for recreational purposes can leave people with medical bills and at risk of losing income, at least temporarily.
What hazards should adventurers and parents watch out for when planning a trip to an agricultural facility for recreational purposes?
1. Unruly livestock
Typically, farmers who have animals around for visitors to feed or pet choose the most gentle and complacent of their livestock for such roles. However, animals who feel sick or who have experienced abuse from humans could become violent with little warning. Aggressive animals can cause significant injuries, including fractures, brain injuries and serious lacerations that become infected.
2. Uneven and slippery surfaces
Children enjoying a corn maze might run ahead of their parents. They may not watch their surroundings carefully. They can trip over a rock or lose their balance due to uneven ground. Children frequently do not monitor their surroundings particularly carefully while having fun, which may lead to preventable injuries. Children tend to be at far more risk than adults on farms even if the facility has playground equipment and other areas designated specifically for children.
3. Environmental hazards
An adventure at the farm can be exciting until a storm suddenly arises. Wandering into an out-of-bounds area where farmers store agricultural chemicals could also have negative consequences for visitors. Exposure to the elements can lead to illness or possibly injury due to a slip-and-fall or similar scenario. Additionally, the chemicals used on a farm can be a source of illness. There are even pathogens found in animal waste that could make humans quite ill. All of those risk factors make a trip to a tourist destination farm far more dangerous than people might realize.
Those who sustain farm injuries as visitors or tourists may need support as they seek compensation for their losses. Filing an insurance claim against specialized coverage or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit could both be options for those with serious injuries following an injurious incident at a local farm.
