You may be able to seek compensation for drowning-related injuries and losses with help from an attorney
With summer approaching, many more people are likely to be out enjoying water-related recreational activities. Unfortunately, hundreds of people die or suffer serious brain injuries due to drowning accidents every year. Before you and your family hit the pool, lake, or beach this summer, be sure you understand these 5 important facts about drowning accidents.
1. Swimming Pools Are Not the Only Hazard
Although many people immediately think of young children falling into swimming pools when they think of drowning accidents, a drowning can actually occur anywhere. The water does not even have to be more than a couple of inches deep for a young child or an intoxicated person to be at risk of drowning.
2. Injuries Can Occur Long After the Accident
Dry-drowning is a phenomenon that can occur hours after the individual had their accident. Water remaining in the lungs after the near-drowning can eventually suffocate the victim, causing brain damage or even death. If a loved one has suffered a near-drowning, it is vital to seek medical attention even if they seem perfectly fine to guard against the possibility of dry-drowning.
3. Liability Must Be Proven
In order to secure compensation after a drowning accident, it is necessary to prove that the accident occurred due to negligence on the part of a responsible party. Responsible parties could be property owners, pool operators, babysitters, lifeguards, etc. In some cases more than one party may be responsible for the accident. For example, if a lifeguard failed to adequately supervise children at a pool and a child drowned, the lifeguard as well as the company that hired him or her could be liable. Failure of property owners to provide proper signage or fencing around pools is another common cause of liability for drowning accidents.
4. The Statute of Limitations on Public Pool Accidents is Short
In general, personal injury and liability lawsuits have a two year statute of limitations in California. However, when the lawsuit involves a public swimming pool, this statute of limitations is cut to 6 months. Therefore it is important to act quickly, even though this may be difficult as you grieve for a lost loved one or deal with the aftermath of a traumatic injury.
5. You Can Get a Free Consultation with a Drowning Accident Attorney Now
Fernando D. Vargas can help guide you through all the complications of a drowning accident case, starting with a free consultation where you can learn more about the law and determine the strength of your case. If your case has merit, Fernando D. Vargas can act as your drowning accident attorney on a contingency fee basis, so you do not have to pay for representation until you win a settlement.
