Home Premises Liability Drowning Accident

South Carolina Pool Accidents

South Carolina's warm climate and abundant waterways make water sports popular among residents and tourists. However, watersports can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Every year, there are reports of drownings and other severe water sports accidents.

Swimming is a great way to cool off on a hot day but can also be dangerous. Drowning is the leading cause of death in children under five, and it is essential to take precautions to prevent it. Always swim with a partner and never swim alone. Stay within your depth and never swim in too rough or deep water.

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Pool Owner Rules

Claims from swimming pool accidents usually fall under premises liability law. This means that the property owner may be held responsible for accidents on their property. They can be held liable if they allow a hazard to exist and don't take steps to fix it. Property owners are usually given a reasonable amount of time to fix a risk before someone gets hurt.

If you own a swimming pool in South Carolina, you must meet several legal requirements. For example, you must secure the pool with a fence and a locking gate. Public collections must also comply with additional regulations for the number of lifeguards on duty, warning signs, lifesaving equipment, and more.

When someone is injured at a private or public swimming pool, the pool owner may be held liable if it can be shown that the owner neglected their legal obligations. To prove negligence, it must be shown that the owner knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to take reasonable steps to address it. For example, if a pool owner knows that the deck is slippery and does not take steps to warn guests or fix the problem, they may be liable if someone is injured in a fall. Similarly, if a pool owner does not have proper safety equipment or does not properly maintain the pool, they may be liable if someone is injured.

Effects of Near Drowning

Near drowning is a severe medical condition affecting the victim's health. Victims often experience brain damage, organ damage, and psychological trauma. Near-drowning victims who survive often have to deal with various health problems.

Brain damage is typical and can lead to memory, learning, and coordination problems. Organ damage is common, too and that can come in the form of heart, lungs, and kidney problems. Psychological trauma is also common and can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Victims of near drowning often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Unfortunately, in some cases, they may never fully recover from the experience. Therefore, if you or someone you know has been involved in near drowning, it is vital to get medical help as soon as possible.

Determining Liability

To determine liability in a swimming pool accident, a few key factors need to be considered. It is crucial to establish whether or not the pool was maintained correctly and if any hazardous conditions were present. If the pool was not properly maintained or there were dangerous conditions present, then the owner of the pool may be held liable. Next, it is critical to determine if the victim was trespassing on the property.

Hire a Charleston Injury Lawyer After a Drowning or Near Drowning Accident

After a Charleston swimming pool accident, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. Personal injury lawyers can help you by providing guidance and support as you navigate the legal process. Allen Law can help you understand your rights and options and can work to get you the compensation you deserve. If you've been injured in a swimming pool accident, don't hesitate to contact our Charleston attorneys today to get the help you need. Call (843) 882-5005 to schedule a consultation.

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