A relaxing summer swim is a great way to spend a hot, summer day. Most times we do not consider the dangers involved, particularly to children. Sadly, there is always a degree of risk when going into a private or public pool.
Swimming pool accidents are more common than many of us realize. If you or a loved one has been injured in a swimming pool accident, our team of premises liability attorneys can help you find the liable parties and recover the compensation you deserve. Call a Bloomfield pool accident lawyer today.
Injury Prevention Around Pools
76 percent of drowning deaths in the United States involve children under the age of 5, and with swimming pool drowning deaths, 67 percent of victims are children under the age of 3. Medical costs for children 14 and under are estimated to be more than $8,000 for emergency room care and up to $250,000 for subsequent long-term care. This figure can jump even higher if brain or spinal cord injuries occur. These sobering statistics go to show the seriousness of pool related injuries.
For Milford public and private pools, there are several simple precautions that can prevent injury to swimmers. By following these steps, the risk of injury is drastically reduced and we can all feel safer with our children in the water. If possible, following these steps is recommended.
- Never swim alone. This goes both for individuals and as a pool policy. In private pools, there is a propensity to feel overly comfortable and not respect the danger of drowning. Always have a friend or family member nearby
- Indicate depth clearly at all sections of the pool. A leading cause of pool-related injury is diving into shallow water
- Have a secure fence surrounding the pool area to keep guests away during off-hours.
- Have a designated area for diving that is clearly marked
- Set pool hours and do not allow guests to the pool area when the area is “closed”
- Have either a lifeguard or someone experienced in CPR in the vicinity at all times. Owners of private pools should consider getting CPR certified if they are not already
- Take swimming lessons. Especially for children, swimming lessons have been shown to be less likely to be injured or killed in swimming pool accidents
As always, avoiding injury altogether is the best solution. If you or a loved one have already been injured in a swimming pool accident, lean on our Bloomfield attorneys’ experience in protecting clients for over 50 years. We have been helping to recover compensation to recover expenses for injuries including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Swimming Pool Accident Liability
New Jersey state law mandates that all pools not deemed a “kiddie” pool must have a permit. This applies to any pool used for swimming or recreational bathing that is of a depth greater than 2 feet, including in-ground pools, above-ground pools, spas, hot tubs, etc. An additional permit is required if there are any electrical components. If any of these permit regulations have not been met, the owners can be held responsible for any pool-related injuries.
There are several additional factors that may help your Bloomfield attorney determine liability for your swimming pool accident. Pool accidents fall under premises liability law. Pool owners or overseers are required to maintain safe conditions, warn visitors if of any dangers, supervise minors using pool facilities, and make necessary repairs.
It has been estimated that up to 70% of all injuries and death related to swimming or water-related recreational activities involved alcohol. If the owner or manager of a pool is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they are not able to keep the swimmers safe. Supervision is only as reliable as the individual or individuals doing the supervising.
Speak to a Bloomfield Swimming Pool Accident Attorney
Contact our firm for help seeking compensation for your losses after a pool incident. Our Bloomfield pool accident lawyers are ready to help.
