If you or a loved one were injured because of a negligent swimming pool owner, read on and reach out to our firm today to discuss your legal options with one of our Panama City slip & fall accident attorneys.
What are the common causes of swimming pool accidents in Florida?
Swimming pool accidents can occur in a number of ways. The most common, however, is from pool owner negligence. If a pool owner does not keep their grounds safe and someone gets injured as a result, the pool owner may be held liable. Pool owners should take the following precautions to evade accidents from happening:
- If the pool is deep and people are unable to stand, ensure they are strong swimmers before letting them in the pool
- Install suitable barriers, covers, alarms, and fencing on and around the pool
- Never leave a child alone in the water or near it
- Stay away from drains and make sure pools have drain covers
- Stowaway portable ladders when the pool is not being used. Children who are unable to swim are usually drawn to pools. Removing the ladders can stop them from climbing into the pool and injuring themselves.
- Pool owners should know how to perform CPR just in the event that someone is drowning
- Avoid electrocution by restricting electronic devices near the pool
- Let swimmers know where there are shallow areas where they are unable to dive
- Always swim sober
Can I seek legal action after a swimming pool accident?
To successfully file a claim for a swimming pool accident, you must be able to demonstrate that your injuries were a direct result of another’s negligence. It is critical to acquire as much evidence as possible to help strengthen the chances of being awarded compensation for your injuries. If you can, 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 confirm your version of events which can play a large role in a personal injury case.
- Take photos and videos of the hazardous conditions that caused your accident to occur.
- Seek medical attention to confirm that your injuries are adequately treated. Ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents indicating the origin and harshness of your injuries.
- Retain the services of one of our skilled Panama City personal injury attorneys to help you collect more evidence that can be critical to your claim.
- Recognize that Florida has a statute of limitations of four years from the date of your accident to file your claim. Ensure that you have punctually fulfilled all of your claim’s deadlines with your lawyer.
Contact our experienced Florida firm
Our firm proudly handles injury claims, 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.