Swimming pools are synonymous with summer fun, relaxation, and exercise. However, they come with a fair share of risks, especially if proper safety measures are not taken. Inevitably, accidents do happen, which can sometimes result in serious injuries or, in some cases, fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a swimming pool accident, you may be wondering what comes next. This article will discuss what to expect when filing a swimming pool accident lawsuit in Wisconsin.
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Types of Swimming Pool Accidents
Swimming pool accidents can take various forms. Some of the most common types of pool accidents include:
Drowning Accidents
Drowning accidents occur when a swimmer is unable to keep their head above water, causing them to suffocate and, in some cases, suffer brain damage or fatal injuries. Drowning incidents can result from a lack of supervision, failure to follow swimming pool safety guidelines, or a defective swimming pool.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Pools surrounding areas are often wet and slippery, and can lead to slip and fall accidents. This can occur due to spillage, leaks, or splashing, which can cause a person to lose their balance and suffer an injury.
Chemical Exposure
Chemical exposure can happen when swimming pool water is not balanced correctly, causing skin reactions, breathing problems, and, in some cases, chemical burns.
Diving Accidents
Diving accidents happen when a swimmer jumps or dives into a shallow pool, striking their head on the bottom and suffering a head or back injury.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Swimming Pool Accidents?
Various parties can hold liability for swimming pool accidents in Wisconsin. This includes, but is not limited to:
Pool Owners
Pool owners have a legal obligation to maintain and secure their swimming pools to prevent injuries. They must ensure that their pool meets all local, state, and federal regulations, and that all equipment is functioning correctly.
Contractors
Contractors who install and maintain swimming pools can hold liability if they install a defective pool, fail to follow established safety guidelines, or give improper instructions to the pool owners.
Passersby
If a passerby was involved in an accident due to their own negligence or trespassing, they cannot hold the pool owner or any other party liable for their injury.
What To Do After a Swimming Pool Accident
If you are involved in a swimming pool accident, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t notice any immediate injuries. Some injuries like concussions and neck injuries may not become apparent for hours or even days after the accident. After receiving medical attention, you should contact an experienced swimming pool accident attorney to help you navigate the legal process.
What To Expect When Filing a Swimming Pool Lawsuit in Wisconsin
To file a successful lawsuit, you must prove that the swimming pool owner or any other responsible party acted negligently, resulting in your injury. In Wisconsin, the statute of limitations for filing a swimming pool accident lawsuit is three years from the date of the accident. This means that you must file a lawsuit within three years of the accident, or you risk your case being dismissed.
It is essential to hire an experienced Wisconsin swimming pool accident attorney to help you navigate the legal process. Your attorney will investigate the accident to determine who is liable, gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company or involved parties to ensure that you receive compensation for your injuries and damages.
Conclusion
Swimming pool accidents can be devastating and result in severe injuries or fatalities. If you have been injured in a swimming pool accident, it is essential to understand your legal rights and options. Contact a Wisconsin swimming pool accident attorney immediately to help guide you through the legal process. With the right legal representation, you can receive the compensation you deserve and begin your journey towards recovery.