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Swimming pools are among the best ways to spend a hot summer day but they can also pose dangers that causes significant injuries and financial hardship if liable parties are not paying attention.
If you or someone you love was hurt while swimming in someone’s pool, you have two years to file a premises liability claim for compensation. Our Chicago pool accident lawyers can help guide you through the process and fight for what you deserve.
When discussing swimming pool accidents, most people only think about drowning. However, many types of accidents can happen at the pool which may cause harm and result in compensable damages. Beyond drowning, some of the most common accidents that Chicago pool injury attorneys often see include:
Slick concrete or other flooring around a pool can pose a challenge when wet. Slip and fall accidents can lead to a head injury, broken arms and legs, spinal cord injuries, and more.
Diving-related accidents may cause several injuries, depending on the body part sustaining the impact, which is often the head. A malfunctioning diving board or an incorrectly-listed depth notice could make the owners liable for the lawsuit that follows.
The drains under the water can have a strong suction quality, which could end up holding someone underwater, specifically small children who are not strong enough to pull away. Pool owners should make sure these drains are working properly.
Some pool setups may have electrical wires or outlets too close to the pool, or some other electrical device that is malfunctioning. Death can occur when these currents make contact with the water.
Too many chemicals in a pool can cause chemical burns or other illness. Before swimming begins, manager should ensure the pool chemicals are not over the recommended amount. Chemicals may also send people to the ER because of their strong odor. According to the ATSDR (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry), it can irritate the eyes and nose in limited amounts. Increased exposure can lead to breathing difficulties.
These types of accidents can happen anytime and for any reason. However, many of them can be traced back to the pool owner or supervisor, who assumes responsibility by inviting or allowing others onto their property. When their negligence leads to a tragedy, Chicago residents should call a pool accident lawyer right away.
Illinois enforces the Private Swimming Pool Enclosure Act. It defines a pool as an outdoor basin of water constructed, modified, improved, or installed in or above the ground of a private residential property and intended for swimming, with a depth of more than 24 inches or a capacity of 200 gallons of water.
Pool owners must install a barrier at least 42 inches tall around the perimeter. A residence that does not have this barrier is subject to legal action against them if someone is injured in their pool, whether they know the individual or not.
In addition to this law, there are basic premises liability laws which indicate that if someone is injured on private property, they can hold the property owner responsible. A Chicago lawyer helps an injured person understand the evidence available in a swimming pool injury case and how best to file suit for damages.
It is never too soon to seek advice from a personal injury lawyer. The sooner you build your case, the better because it will ensure that the two-year statute of limitations does not expire before you can seek compensation.
McCready Law Injury Attorneys are here to help you every step of the way and offer a free case consultation to help you discover the rights you may have. Please reach out to us today. Our Chicago-based pool accident lawyers could help you through this difficult time.
