Tampa Swimming Pool Accident Lawyer
Drowning is the fifth leading cause of accidental death in the United States. Most of these drownings do not occur in the ocean, or on rivers or lakes; they happen at fitness clubs, hotels, and in our own backyards. Swimming pool drownings are not the only type of swimming pool accident, however. Defective pool filters have actually been known to explode and send shrapnel into unsuspecting victims. Overly slippery pool decks can cause avoidable slip and fall injuries, such as concussions and broken bones. Dangerous wiring can even cause electrocution. If you or your child was harmed in any type of swimming pool accident, the Tampa swimming pool accident lawyer at The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. is here to help.
Establishing Fault in a Tampa Swimming Pool Accident
Property owners can be held liable for drownings and other pool accidents that happen on their premises, whether the property owner is a private individual, or a large corporation such as a hotel. Examples of negligence that can be used to establish liability in a personal injury or wrongful death claim include:
- No lifeguard on duty at a public pool or pool where lifeguards are required
- Lifeguard not respond properly during an emergency
- The residential pool did not meet one or more of Florida’s regulations
- An adult was not properly supervising a young child
- Lack of safety/emergency equipment
- Defective or unmaintained pool parts, such as a pump, drain, or pump
Florida’s Regulations Surrounding Residential Swimming Pools
Florida has a strict set of laws governing access to residential swimming pools, due to the drowning risk they pose to young children and people with disabilities. These regulations include the following:
- Four foot barrier surrounding the entire pool (such as a fence or wall)
- No gaps or spaces in the barrier that a young child could squeeze through
- The barrier cannot be up against a structure or object that could be used to climb the barrier, such as a tree
- The barrier must be sufficiently far away from the water’s edge so that in the event that a child or disabled person does penetrate the barrier, they will not immediately fall into the pool
- Gates to swimming pools have to open out, away from the pool, and be self-closing and self-latching, with the latching system being at least 54 inches from the floor/ground
- There must be alarms on all doors and windows that lead directly out into a pool from a residential home
- Pool covers must be approved and fitted to the pool, and cannot be a crude canvas covering or other type of cover that could entrap a victim
Call a Tampa Swimming Pool Accident Lawyer Today
Swimming pools are generally a fun, safe, and enjoyable way to relax or get some exercise. But when a property or business owner fails to uphold their duty of care in any way, accidents can and do happen. If you or your child was harmed, a Tampa swimming pool accident lawyer is here to help in every way they can. Call The Matassini Law Firm, P.A. today at 813-217-5715 to schedule a free consultation.
