Summer break is filled with many enjoyable activities for children of all ages. For many, this means taking a dip in the pool. Whether it is a pool at their home, a neighbor’s pool, a community pool or a pool at a private facility, there are certain risk and dangers that are always present when swimming in a pool.
Even the most seasoned and experienced swimmer could meet ill fate when going into a pool. Dangerous conditions could be present, resulting in serious harm or even death to an individual. Thus, it is imperative to understand your rights and legal options when it comes to addressing the harms and losses suffered following a swimming pool incident.
Swimming pool accidents
Based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC, current data indicates that fatal drowning continues to be a leading cause of death for minors. The CDC found that for children between the ages 5 and 14, the second leading cause of accidental deaths is fatal drowning. It is the top cause for injury-related deaths for children between 1 and 4.
It was also found that for every fatal drowning of a child, there are 7 incidents of emergency care for non-fatal swimming pool incident involving a child. Based on current statistics, those with the greatest risk for pool-related injuries include males, children and minorities.
While fatal injuries are a great concern, there is also a risk of non-fatal swimming pool injuries. This could include injuries such as a traumatic brain injury, disembowelment or evisceration, lacerations, broken bones, electrocution and injuries to major organs related to a near-drowning.
Swimming pool dangers
Fatal and non-fatal swimming pool injuries could be caused for a wide range of risks and dangerous conditions. This could include pool drain injuries, slip-and-falls, electrical defects, broken or defective ladders or stairs, unsafe pool toys or flotations or a broken or defective slide or diving board.
Additionally, if a pool is damaged or broken and is not guarded or secured to prevent trespassers or unsupervised children from using it, this could be the source of serious and even fatal pool injuries.
When a swimming pool accident occurs, there may be legal recourses available to you. If the accident was related to the negligence or conduct of the pool owner, you could file a civil suit to hold the owner liable for the damages and losses suffered.
If the injury was due to a defect or a condition that compromised the safety of the pool or its equipment, liability could be placed on a manufacturer, seller or installer of the pool. A legal professional can answer any questions you have, helping you understand your legal rights and actions you could take.