Los Angeles Swimming Pool Accident Lawyers Fighting for You

Taking legal action after a drowning or other accident in LA County can be complex

Swimming pools are part of the San Fernando Valley, California, lifestyle that many people enjoy. Most individuals are aware of the increased responsibilities that come with having a pool, allowing them and visitors to enjoy some fun in the sun.

However, some pool owners are irresponsible in the maintenance and upkeep of their pools and surrounding areas. This negligence can sometimes result in drownings or serious injury to a victim who is a guest, renter, or invitee on the property. That’s when having an experienced Los Angeles swimming pool accident attorney on your side to help you navigate the legal process can make all the difference.

Pursuing legal action after a drowning or other accident in the San Fernando Valley can be complex. At Oaks Law Firm, our swimming pool accident lawyers are committed to protecting your rights. Whether you're dealing with issues of negligence, inadequate supervision, or unsafe pool conditions, we have the knowledge, experience, and resources to help you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve under California law.

Common types of swimming pool accidents in Los Angeles

Swimming pools present a variety of hazards. In many situations, the victim is completely unaware of the deadly dangers that are poolside. Here are some of the common situations that give rise to a swimming pool accident lawsuit in Los Angeles:

• Drowning: Drowning incidents are particularly common when pools are improperly gated or poorly marked. The lack of adequate fencing and security measures can allow small children, who are particularly at risk, to access the pool area unsupervised. Adults may also fall victim due to inadequate signage, slippery conditions, or other hazards. Drowning can occur rapidly, leading to severe injuries or death.
• Slip and fall: Slip and fall accidents around pools can result in serious injuries. The risk is especially high near the water's edge, where surfaces are often wet and slippery. Such falls can lead to head injuries or unconsciousness, increasing the risk of drowning if the victim falls into the pool. These incidents often result from inadequate maintenance and failure to address slippery surfaces.
• Diving or jumping injuries: Diving or jumping into a pool can result in severe injuries, including head, neck, and spinal injuries. These risks are exacerbated when diving boards malfunction or are inappropriate for the pool's size and depth. Additionally, inadequate depth markings can cause serious injuries when divers misjudge the water's depth.
• Electrocution: Electrical hazards in and around swimming pools pose significant risks. Faulty wiring, improper maintenance, or electrical equipment near water can lead to electrocution. Such accidents can result in serious injuries or death, highlighting the importance of proper safety measures and regular maintenance.
• Chemical burns: Proper chemical balance in pool water is crucial for safety and hygiene. Incorrect chemical levels or improper handling of pool chemicals can cause chemical burns to swimmers. Pool owners and operators must ensure that chemicals are stored safely and used correctly to prevent such injuries.
• Inadequate fencing and barriers: The absence of adequate fencing and barriers is a critical safety issue. Proper barriers are essential to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children. Pool owners are legally required to install fences and self-closing gates that meet specific safety standards. Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to tragic accidents and potential legal liability.
• Negligent supervision: Many public and private pools require lifeguards or responsible adults to supervise swimmers. When lifeguards or supervisors fail to adequately monitor the pool area, prevent hazardous behavior, or respond to emergencies, it can result in serious accidents or drownings. Negligent supervision can be grounds for a legal claim if it leads to injury or death.

Children are at high risk of drowning in pools

Children between the ages of 1 and 4 are the most likely to be injured or drown in a swimming pool accident, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When children in that age range do pass away from drowning, they are most likely to be in swimming pools at the time of the accident.

If a child does survive the accident, they may suffer from serious brain damage due to the lack of oxygen to the brain during the incident. This type of injury can lead to long-term cognitive impairments, physical disabilities, and other neurological issues that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

The emotional and financial toll on the child and their family can be significant, as they may face ongoing healthcare needs, therapy, and adjustments to daily life. It is crucial for parents and guardians to understand their legal rights and options if their child is injured in a swimming pool accident.

Seeking the assistance of an experienced swimming pool accident attorney can help ensure that responsible parties are held accountable and that families receive the compensation necessary to cover medical expenses, ongoing care, and other related costs.

Who can be liable in a California swimming pool accident?

Liability in a California swimming pool accident can extend to several parties, depending on the circumstances that led to the incident. Determining who is responsible is a critical aspect of seeking compensation for injuries or damages. Here are some of the key parties who may be held liable:

1. Property owners: Whether the pool is on private residential property, a commercial property, or part of a public facility, the property owner is typically one of the primary parties responsible for maintaining safe conditions. They are required to follow local and state regulations, such as installing adequate fencing, providing proper signage, and ensuring the pool area is free from hazards. If a property owner fails to meet these standards, they can be held liable for any accidents that occur.
2. Pool operators and managers: In the case of public or commercial pools, such as those in hotels, water parks, or community centers, the operators and managers are responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and safety of the pool. This includes hiring qualified lifeguards, maintaining equipment, managing chemical levels, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Failure to properly manage these responsibilities can result in liability for accidents and injuries.
3. Lifeguards and supervisors: Lifeguards and supervisors are responsible for monitoring the safety of swimmers and responding to emergencies. They must be adequately trained and attentive while on duty. If a lifeguard fails to perform their duties—such as failing to prevent unsafe behavior, not noticing a swimmer in distress, or being absent from their post—they, and potentially their employers, can be held liable for resulting injuries or deaths.
4. Contractors and maintenance companies: Companies hired to maintain the pool, including those responsible for cleaning, chemical treatments, and equipment inspections, can be held liable if their negligence leads to an unsafe condition.
5. Pool equipment manufacturers: If a defect in pool equipment, such as faulty filters, pumps, or ladders, contributes to an accident, the manufacturer of the defective product may be held liable under product liability laws. This includes situations where the equipment's design is inherently dangerous or if there was a manufacturing flaw.
6. Tenants and occupants: In some cases, tenants or occupants of a property may share liability, particularly if they contributed to unsafe conditions. For example, if a tenant allows hazardous behavior around the pool or fails to report known issues to the property owner, they may be partially liable for any resulting accidents.
7. Government entities: When a pool is owned and operated by a public entity, such as a city or county, the government may be liable for accidents. However, pursuing claims against government entities involves specific legal procedures and limitations, including shorter deadlines for filing claims.

Contact a Los Angeles swimming pool accident attorney today

In any swimming pool accident case, identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial for a comprehensive claim. At Oaks Law Firm, our dedicated legal team can help investigate the incident, determine liability, and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable for their actions or negligence.

We understand the tactics insurers use to avoid paying fair compensation, and we are prepared to fight vigorously on your behalf. Whether it's a lack of proper supervision, inadequate safety measures, or faulty pool maintenance, we will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

Don't let an insurance company try to reduce or deny your claim. Contact Oaks Law Firm today, 24/7, for a free case evaluation, and let us help you find your way forward. With offices in Sherman Oaks, Woodland Hills, and throughout California, we serve clients in the San Fernando Valley, LA County, and statewide. We also offer a no fee guarantee to our clients, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf.