Comments on: Family Files Law Suit In Utah Fatal Bear Attack

By: Phillip

Phillip — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:50:58 +0000

I’m not sure the government should be held accountable. It doesn’t really make sense to me. I don’t believe anyone should have to be warned that there “might” be dangerous animals in the wild. If you don’t know that already, maybe you shouldn’t be out there.

No disrespect or anything toward the grieving family. It’s a tragedy beyond anything I’ve ever experienced, and it’s only natural that they should be seeking someone to blame for their loss.

Here’s a thought, though. Why not impose large fines on people in the parks who do not follow appropriate bear procedures, such as locking food in bear-proof containers. Likewise, penalize those who feed wildlife, especially in National Forests and such. Consistently collect those fines into a fund to provide for families or individuals who are injured by wildlife through no fault of their own. Of course you can’t “buy back” someone who’s killed or severely injured, but the fund could be used for funeral or medical expenses.

Just a thought to be constructive.

By: Kristine Shreve

Kristine Shreve — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 21:33:19 +0000

If it wasn’t an official campsite, than things are different. Then I guess you’re taking your chances. You’re right, there’s no way to effectively post a large area.

If it were an official campsite,that would be different.

It was a tragedy either way, and a terrible loss for that family.

By: Moose

Moose — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 17:45:39 +0000

If my memory serves me right this was not an official campsite they were in. The family was “dispersed camping” where you go into the national forest and just pick a site to camp. There is no facilities, and with just some guidelines set up the National Forest you can basically set up a campsite anywhere as long as you follow the rules. Bears can cover a large territory so how do you realistically post an area to warn folks? I would think that posting or closing is a reasonable expectation in official campsites. I hate that this youngster was killed and I feel horrible for the family I can’t imagine what kind of pain and anguish they have gone through but to assign blame to the National Forest Service I think is wrong. If they kid proof all the federal lands none of us will have access.

By: Kristine Shreve

Kristine Shreve — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:19:21 +0000

This will be an interesting case. It is, of course, heartbreaking that the boy was killed, but I’m not sure how I feel about their claim. I guess it is as you asked, if you camp or hike in the wilderness, how much responsibility do you have to take for your own safety.

Still, if the area had been posted, maybe the family would not have camped there. It is hard to take responsibility when you’re not informed.

Guess I’m torn on this one.