As the warm summer weather rolls in, many people enjoy jumping into swimming pools to cool down. Although swimming is fun, swimming pool accidents happen more frequently than you may realize, and those affected suffer devastating losses. Property owners must take the necessary precautions to allow their guests to enjoy swimming while keeping safe. Homeowners must maintain their pools properly to prevent serious accidents, injuries, and even deaths. If you or your loved one has been injured in a swimming pool accident, keep reading and contact a seasoned Middlesex County Personal Injury Attorney who can help you hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence.
How do swimming pool accidents happen?
Unfortunately, there are many causes of swimming pool accidents during the summertime. However, they are most commonly the result of the property owner’s negligence. Serious accidents and injuries can occur when the pool is not properly maintained. Some of the most common swimming pool accidents include the following:
- Drowning. This accident occurs when an individual is submerged under water and suffocated. Deaths that occur within 24 hours of submersion are classified as drowning deaths. Sadly, individuals drown due to inadequate swimming skills, drain entrapment, fatigue, or cramping.
- Near-drowning. This type of accident involves an individual drowning yet surviving after being submerged underwater.
- Entrapment. Pools use filters and drains to keep the water clean. These drains have strong suction, and individuals bathing suits or hair can become stuck, which prevents them from reaching the surface.
- Slip and fall. Along the exterior of the pool and the surrounding area, individuals need to be aware of the wet surface as it can cause people to slip and fall, sustaining severe injuries.
- Pool chemicals. Chemicals that keep the pool clean can poison swimmers as they breathe in the toxic fumes.
Can I take legal action after a swimming pool accident?
If you or your child has been injured in a swimming pool accident on someone else’s premises, you can pursue legal action against the property owner as long as you can prove that the injuries sustained were due to the property owner’s negligence. Unfortunately, those injured in swimming pool accidents can face several physical, emotional, and economic burdens that negatively impact their lives. When this happens, you have two years from the accident date to file a claim against a negligent property owner. If you miss this deadline, you will be barred from taking legal action in the future, relinquishing your right to recover monetary compensation for your damages.
If you have been injured in a swimming pool accident due to negligence, contact Stathis & Leonardis today. Our firm is prepared to work tirelessly to help secure the fair compensation you deserve.
