What Homeowners Should Know About Swimming Pools And Negligence
Although it is quickly becoming fall, Florida weather allows people to enjoy their pools year-round. The oasis can prove to be an excellent investment. It is an ideal tool for exercising and staying in shape. Plus, the pool is a great addition to a backyard for hosting parties, barbecues, and family reunions. Should a person get into an accident or have a surgical procedure done, the water can be beneficial to their recovery. Not to mention, a swimming pool increases the property's value.
However, not everything is fun and games when it comes to pools. Florida is a premises liability state, which means property owners have a duty to protect visitors on their lands. This includes the guest's safety and well-being while in and around the swimming pool. If the person sustains an injury, landowners may find themselves in the middle of a lawsuit. Of course, if an unintentional drowning occurs, a trial may be the least of their worries as the pain and suffering can be almost unbearable for everyone involved.
Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that from 2005 to 2014, there were 3,536 fatal unintentional drownings yearly in the United States. This number does not include boating-related incidents as those accounted for another 332 lost lives during the same period. Approximately ten people die each day in this way. About one in five of the victims are children 14 years of age or younger.
The Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act
Preventing drownings and pool-related injuries are not easy tasks. However, the state of Florida passed this piece of legislature to attempt the feats. It is a set of safety requirements that all swimming pool owners must meet. There are far too many conditions to list here, but some of the most important ones include...
• The Pool Must Have An Appropriate Cover
• An Alarm System Needs To Sound After Discovering Unauthorized Or Accidental Access Into The Water
• All Swimming Pools Must Have A Barrier That Meets Specific Criteria
• Gates Must Be Self-Closing, Open Outward, And Have Self-Latching Mechanisms
There are plenty more stipulations though, so be sure to check out the act prior to investing in a pool. Before inviting friends, neighbors, and acquaintances over to swim, make necessary repairs to keep them out of harm's way. If a big get-together is taking place, consider having a designated person on lifeguard duty. It is also not a bad idea to post signs alerting guests to the potential dangers. Do your part to ensure that the party stays fun and entertaining. After all, nobody wants to have the event end on a sour note because of an injury.
Victims In Need Of An Attorney Do Not Need To Look Any Further
If you or a loved one were injured due to the negligence of a pool owner, give us a call. Our firm offers free case reviews, so you will be able to see where your claim stands without paying any upfront fees. We have offices set up throughout Florida for added convenience in...
• Sarasota, Lakeland, Port Charlotte
• Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, Englewood
• Arcadia, St. Petersburg, Venice, And Bradenton
You don't have to be stuck in a rut paying for medical bills, notably when no fault of your own caused the injuries. The lawyers always fight with the best interests of their clients in mind. The team has successfully represented many members of the community over the years, and they can do the same for you. Don't fret if you need an attorney for something other than a swimming pool injury. Instead, feel free to check out our website to learn about the firm's other practice areas.
