With temperatures pushing well into the 90s this summer, many people will be cooling off at the pool over the coming months. Whether you are taking a break from the heat at a pool owned by the city, at your friend’s house, or in your own backyard, diving in can be a fun way to make the most of the scorching temperatures.
However, swimming pools can also be dangerous, and it’s not uncommon for people to be injured in swimming pool accidents during the summer months. By following these pool safety tips from our Georgia personal injury lawyers, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from serious injury while having a great time, too.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol and swimming do not mix. While it might be tempting to crack open a cold one while you are relaxing in the pool, it’s never a good idea to swim while drinking. Alcohol leads to impaired judgment, which increases your chances of being injured or, worse, drowning. If you plan to get in the water, avoid consuming alcohol beforehand.
Never Swim Alone
Abide by the buddy system anytime you are swimming. Make sure that if you decide to take a dip in the pool, there is at least one other person around at all times in case you need emergency assistance.
Teach Children to Swim
If you have children, teach them how to swim before allowing them in a pool, or pay for them to attend swimming lessons. Knowing how to swim will significantly reduce their risk of drowning.
Monitor Young Children at All Times
Even if your children know how to swim, you should still keep an eye on them when they are in the pool. Never permit young children to swim without an adult present.
Secure the Pool Area
If you’re a pool owner, and you have young children, you should erect a pool barrier with a locking gate. Securing your pool will prevent little ones from accidentally wandering into the pool area and drowning. If you have an above-ground pool, you should remove the stepladder that allows swimmers to descend into the pool when the pool is not in use. If the stepladder is raised, young kids will have a harder time accessing the pool. Many above-ground pool owners also have decks with locking gates that stop kids from accessing the pool.
Store Rescue Equipment Nearby and Learn CPR
If you own a pool, you should make sure that you store life jackets and flotation devices in the pool area in case of emergency. You should also receive CPR training and get your certification so that you can perform this life-saving technique should the need arise.
Follow Pool Rules
It is common for pool owners to establish certain pool rules to prevent accidents. Never run around the edges of a pool, which can be wet and slippery, leading to a slip and fall accident. You should also never dive into a pool unless the pool is deep enough for this activity. Many residential pools, for instance, are not sufficiently deep to accommodate head-first diving. It’s far safer to jump in feet-first.
Avoid the Pool Drain
Pool drains have strong suction, and it is easy for jewelry, hair, and swimsuits to get stuck in a drain if you get too close. Stay well clear of pool drains and, if you have children, you should warn them to do the same. If you’re a pool owner, you could install a drain cover for extra protection.
What to Do If You Are Injured in a Swimming Pool Accident
Georgia premises liability law requires property owners, including swimming pool owners, to ensure that their properties are safe for visitors. If a pool owner Is negligent and fails to eliminate hazards that could potentially lead to an injury, they can be held liable if someone gets hurt.
If you were injured in a swimming pool accident that you believe was caused by the property owner’s negligence, you should take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Report the accident – Report the accident to the property owner, and call the police if necessary. Depending on the nature and severity of your injuries, emergency responders might transport you to the ER. Law enforcement officers will create an accident report in which they describe your injuries and take down witness contact information.
- Gather evidence at the scene – Take photos of your injuries and the hazard that caused the accident. If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their contact details.
- Seek prompt medical attention – You should seek medical care right away and have your injuries diagnosed. Seeking prompt medical attention is also crucial if you plan to file an insurance claim, as most insurance providers require claimants to be seen within 72 hours of an accident.
You should also contact an injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident to evaluate your legal options. If you believe that your injuries were directly caused by the property owner’s negligence, you might be entitled to hold them accountable through a premises’ liability claim or lawsuit.
If you were injured at a private pool, you would file a claim with the property owner’s homeowners insurance provider. Pursuing compensation directly from a family member, friend, or acquaintance can be awkward, but by going through their insurance policy, you can avoid any possible unpleasantness.
If you suffered injuries at a city pool, you might be able to file a claim with the city. The Georgia Tort Claims Act of 1992 allows Georgians to sue state and city governments if the city’s (or a city employee’s) negligence causes them to suffer injuries on public property. However, there are special rules and time limits involved with bringing a claim against government entities in Georgia, so you should consult with an attorney before you take action.
Contact a Swimming Pool Accident Lawyer
Were you injured in a swimming pool accident in Duluth, Georgia? If you believe that your injuries were caused by the property owner’s negligence, contact a Georgia swimming pool accident attorney at Brauns Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, P.C. today to discuss your case. We have the experience and skills to gather evidence for your case, help you navigate the claims process, negotiate a settlement on your behalf, and represent you at trial if necessary.
Call us at 404-418-8244 or reach out to us online for a free consultation.
