As the temperature rises outside, so does the amount of time we spend at the pool when cooling off. Whether you are in the pool at an apartment, condominium, waterpark, or hotel, there is always a possibility of having an accident both in or out of the water.
Besides drowning, what other injuries can happen near swimming pools?
Whether you are in the pool or on the pool deck, you can potentially sustain major and minor bodily injuries. The more dangerous accidents that can take place at the pool are slip and falls and spinal cord injuries. However, the more common minor injuries that many swimmers and pool-goers receive are scrapes, scratches, or orthopedic injuries.
How do these injuries take place?
Many injuries are a result of either negligence or hazards around the pool area and the pool deck. Negligence by the property owner or parental guardians can lead to drowning or death in the worst cases, often due to the lack of supervision. Hazards may include a lack of proper signage, drain covers, and violations of rules and regulations that must be met at a swimming pool.
How can poolside injuries be prevented?
The owner of the pool needs to follow Florida State rules and regulations for residential and commercial pools. Pool owners can do the following to establish a safe swimming environment:
• Proper signage
• Proper water depth markings
• Proper cleaning of the pool
• Slip-resistant pool perimeter
• Effective barriers
• Lifeguards when needed
These are the requirements set by Florida Law. Not following these laws can result in severe injuries and even wrongful death. The State of Florida has launched a campaign called WaterSmartFL – “Water Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility.” This campaign is designed to prevent drownings and pool-related injuries while informing all individuals what they can do to have a fun and safe experience swimming at any pool. By visiting watersmartfl.com, anyone can view state laws, sign up for swimming lessons, and review resources to improve water safety.
What to do if you have a swimming pool accident
Contact King Law Firm in Ocala for a free consultation on your swimming pool accident. Whether it occurred at home, a resort, hotel, cruise ship, water park, or any public or private entity with a swimming pool, we can help you determine if you have a claim. Our lawyers are committed to finding compensation for injuries resulting from falls, diving accidents, or drowning at a swimming pool.
At King Law Firm, we do not receive attorney fees unless we can recover compensation for our clients. To speak with an experienced professional about an incident at a swimming pool, do not hesitate to call (352) 261 – 6590 or fill out the contact form on our website.
