Overview
In the heat of the summer, a swimming pool can bring welcome relief. But what happens if something goes horribly wrong and the pool becomes a dangerous environment?
Swimming pool and water safety education is essential, and many people neglect simple swimming pool safety precautions that could prevent an accident from occurring.
Swimming pool accidents are common in the state of Massachusetts, many times due to the negligence of the pool’s owner, creating a premises liability situation. The owner of a swimming pool is responsible for maintaining a safe environment with clear warnings of any potential dangers. Public pools should always have a lifeguard on duty and shallow water should always be clearly identified to prevent diving accidents. Defective fences, pool gates, and drain covers must also be properly maintained.
Drowning is one of the top causes of unintentional death in children in Massachusetts. In fact, backyard swimming pools are one of the top locations for drowning deaths in children ages 1-4, according to the Massachusetts Medical Society.
Unfortunately, there are many additional types of accidents that can occur in and around a swimming pool, including:
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Diving-related injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries
- Circulation entrapment injuries
- Near-drownings or submersion injuries
Our team of Boston-based attorneys has extensive experience representing families who have lost loved ones or had a loved one sustain an injury from drowning or other swimming pool-related accidents. Sheff & Cook brings a unique team approach to all of our cases, and we’re proud to represent you as a compassionate and client-focused law firm.
