Pool owners have a duty to ensure that their property is safe for all of those who are on it. Swimming pool accidents can cause serious physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Contact our experienced Florida personal injury attorneys to discuss your case. Our firm is committed to getting you the compensation you deserve.
What are the common causes of swimming pool accidents in Florida?
There are several ways a swimming pool accident can occur. The most common, however, is by pool owner negligence. If a pool owner fails to keep their grounds safe and someone gets hurt as a result, the pool owner may be held responsible. Pool owners should take the following precautions to avoid accidents from occurring:
- Install proper barriers, covers, alarms, and fencing on and around the pool
- If the pool is deep and people cannot stand, be sure they are strong swimmers before letting them in the pool
- Never leave a child unattended in the water or near it
- Stay away from drains and be sure pools have drain covers
- Stowaway portable ladders when the pool is not in use. Children who cannot swim are often attracted to pools. Removing the ladders can prevent them from climbing into the pool and harming themselves.
- Pool owners may wish to know how to perform CPR just in case someone is drowning
- Avoid electrocution by prohibiting electronic devices near the poor
- Let swimmers know where there are shallow areas where they cannot dive
- Always swim sober
Can I pursue legal action after a swimming pool accident?
In order to successfully file a claim for a swimming pool accident, you must be able to prove that your injuries were a direct result of another’s negligence. It is important to obtain as much evidence as possible to help bolster the chances of being awarded compensation for your injuries. If possible, take the following steps after your accident:
- Call 911 – The police can send an ambulance to the scene, file an accident report, and more.
- Obtain contact information from any witnesses to the accident. If anyone saw the accident occur, they may be able to corroborate your version of events which can play a large role in a personal injury case.
- Take pictures and videos of the hazardous conditions that caused your accident to occur.
- Seek medical attention to ensure that your injuries are properly treated. Ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents pointing to the origin and severity of your injuries.
- Retain an experienced Florida personal injury attorney to help you gather more evidence that can be key to your claim.
- Keep in mind that Florida has a statute of limitations of four years from the date of your accident to file your claim. Ensure that you have promptly met all of your deadlines with your attorney.
Contact our experienced Florida firm
Here at Manuel & Thompson, P.A., we understand the potentially devastating effect that an injury can have on an individual and his or her family, which is why we are dedicated to helping all those who’ve been injured due to no fault of their own. Our firm also proudly handles insurance disputes, hurricane claims, fire loss claims, commercial litigation, and construction law matters. To discuss your case with our experienced Panama City personal injury attorneys, contact Manuel & Thompson, P.A. today for your free consultation.
