Swimming pool accidents account for nearly 3,000 American, drowning deaths annually. For children aged 1 to 4, drowning is the leading cause of accident deaths; for ages 1 to 14, drowning is second only to auto accidents.
Arizona premises liability laws require swimming pool owners to exercise a standard of care and safety for all who enter their swimming pool and its immediate vicinity. Unfortunately, this does not prevent swimming pool accidents from occurring. While not every accident is fatal, after four minutes of submersion, approximately 20% of victims suffer irreversible traumatic brain injuries.
Where Swimming Pool Accidents Can Occur
The negligence of property owners and managers can result in a fatal or non-fatal drowning in numerous water body types, including:
- Water parks
- Bathtubs
- Hotel pools and hot tubs
- Public and private swimming pools
Swimming Pool Accident Compensation
A non-fatal drowning can result in a hospital stay of 120 days and cause medical bills to stockpile, occasionally breaching $150,000. If another party’s negligence results in a non-fatal drowning, compensation may be for:
- Brain damage
- Loss of companionship
- Medical expenses
- Diminished earning capacity
- Diminished quality of life
- Loss of wages
- Paralysis due to spinal cord damage
Holding Negligent Parties Responsible
Public and private swimming facilities are subject to many laws, which attempt to maintain the health and safety of its occupants. Private pool owners may be held responsible for not:
- Installing a locked fence around the premises
- Installing slip-proof surfaces
- Having appropriate safety equipment available
- Displaying warning signs if an insufficient diving depth exists
Public swimming pool facilities may be held responsible if an injury occurs on their premises due to:
- A lifeguard’s negligence directly causing a drowning
- Lack of warning signs for shallow depths and/or a lack of lifeguard presence
- Unlocked premises
Unfortunately, regardless of precautionary, Arizona premises liability laws, swimming pool accidents still occur at an alarming rate. Injuries sustained can instantly reverse a family’s future.
If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury due to a swimming pool accident, Arizona personal injury attorney Jerrold A. Mayro can provide the legal counsel necessary to help you receive fair compensation for your damages. Please contact Jerrold A. Mayro today or call (602) 604-8400 to schedule your personal consultation with Mr. Mayro.