Houston Drowning Accident Attorney | Guidance on Drowning Cases

Both public and private swimming pools provide undeniable relief to many Houston Texas residents on scorching days. However, when not adequately attended, pools can be dangerous. Fatal and non-fatal drownings are heartbreaking, and the worst part is that they are usually preventable.

If a close loved one drowned or you suffered a non-fatal drowning, the Texas pool injury attorneys at Carabin Shaw can assist you with legal action. Getting answers, understanding your options, and easing the financial burden associated with loss and grief might be crucial steps in your healing process. Our lawyers are here to help.

Drowning Risks

While many people swim comfortably every day, it can be a risky activity, especially for children. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):

• There were 3,546 unintentional drownings during 2005-2014
• 1 in 5 of these drowning victims were younger than 14
• Drowning is the second-leading cause of death for children under 14
• Private pools pose a particular risk in drowning cases—74% of drownings occurred at a residential pool

Houston swimming pool accident attorneys are familiar with these numbers and dedicated to holding responsible parties accountable, particularly regarding the senseless death of a child.

It’s worth noting, too, that non-fatal drownings can also have lasting effects on survivors. When deprived of oxygen for five minutes or more, memory problems, learning disabilities, and permanent loss of essential bodily functions could arise. Even in cases with more minor extreme physical side effects, people might experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress.

A drowning attorney in Houston Tx can help you determine who is responsible for your loved one’s death or pool accident. Depending on the specifics of your case, you or your family might be eligible for compensation.

Determining Responsibility in a Drowning Accident

Both private pool owners and public pools must follow specific guidelines to ensure guests’ safety. A Houston drowning accident attorney will first check whether these operators upheld their duty of care or were negligent.

According to Texas law, private pool owners are responsible for ensuring the area around the pool is safe and free of apparent hazards (e.g., tripping risks, slick tiles). They also must:

• Surround their pool with a 4-foot-high fence
• Outfit the fence with a self-latching lock
• Own and use a pool cover when appropriate

Given that the vast majority of drownings happen in residential settings, Houston swimming pool accident attorneys know how crucial these safety procedures are. If you are visiting a friend’s pool or managing your own, take these guidelines seriously. Take note of where the owner breached their obligation to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Public pools in Houston Texas also have responsibilities under the law. They are required to have:

• A properly trained on-duty lifeguard for every 75 swimmers
• “No diving” signs when appropriate
• Marked shallow and deep ends
• Proper ventilation and sewage
• Safety equipment, including a 12-foot reaching pole and floatation devices
• Steps or ladders for entering and exiting the water

If a loved one drowned at a pool that lacked proper safety devices and supervision, a drowning attorney in Houston Tx could counsel you on your next steps.

Connect With a Drowning Accident Attorney in Texas

When you’re considering legal action, you should think about the necessary expertise to provide guidance on drowning cases. The Texas pool injury attorneys at Carabin Shaw offer knowledge, care, and professionalism to all of their clients. Investigating liability in a drowning accident can be complicated, and you need the most experienced lawyers on your case. We are serious about helping you secure compensation after a drowning accident.

For a free initial consultation and case review, please fill out our online contact form or call us toll-free at 800-862-1260.

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