Swimming Pool Accidents Attorney in Los Angeles, California

Swimming pools are great for fun and relaxation. However, they also pose significant dangers, particularly when safety regulations are overlooked.  

Swimming pool accidents can result in severe injuries, long-term disabilities, or even fatalities, leaving victims and their families with towering medical bills, emotional distress, and other life-changing consequences.  

If you or a loved one has been involved in a swimming pool accident in California, including Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange County, Ventura County, or Kern County, Antaramian Law, APC is here to help. Attorney Andrew Antaramian has built a reputation for supporting personal injury victims.

With several years of experience as a defense attorney for insurance companies, Attorney Antaramian leverages his experience to help victims of accidents get justice and compensation. His firm guides clients through personal injury cases with personalized legal counsel and reliable legal representation. 

Types of Swimming Pool Accidents 

Swimming pool accidents take many forms, each with its challenges and risks. Some common types of accidents include: 

1. Drowning and Near-Drowning Incidents 

These are among the most severe types of swimming pool accidents. Tragically, drownings can occur in seconds—especially when there is inadequate supervision or a lack of safety barriers. Survivors of near-drowning incidents could face serious complications, such as brain damage due to oxygen deprivation. 

2. Slip-and-Fall Accidents 

The areas surrounding pools often become slippery from water, creating a hazardous surface. Slip-and-fall incidents can result in broken bones, sprains, or head injuries. 

3. Entrapment Injuries 

Poorly maintained or defective pool drains and suction outlets can trap swimmers, causing serious injuries or even fatalities. These incidents often involve negligent maintenance or defective pool equipment. 

4. Diving Accidents 

Improper pool design, lack of depth markers, or reckless behavior can lead to head, neck, or spinal injuries during dives. These are some of the most debilitating injuries associated with swimming pools. 

5. Chemical Exposure 

Pools require careful chemical maintenance to keep the water safe. Improper chlorine levels or other chemical imbalances can cause skin irritations, respiratory issues, or eye injuries.

Liability in Swimming Pool Accidents 

Swimming pool accidents are often the result of someone's negligence. Determining liability is a critical step in seeking compensation. Depending on the circumstances, the following parties may be held accountable: 

Property Owners 

Under California’s premise liability laws, property owners have a legal duty to maintain their pools in a reasonably safe condition. If their negligence results in injury—for example, failing to provide proper fencing around a pool or neglecting maintenance—they may be held liable. 

Pool Operators 

Public or community swimming pools must comply with strict safety regulations. Failure to do so may attract liability for accidents. 

Manufacturers 

Defective pool equipment, such as faulty drains or malfunctioning filters, can lead to accidents. Manufacturers and distributors of these products may be held accountable for injuries caused by their defects. 

Swimming Pool Safety Laws and Liability in California 

California has some of the country's most stringent swimming pool safety laws to reduce accidents and injuries. If you own or operate a swimming pool in California, you should be familiar with these laws: 

California Swimming Pool Safety Act 

This law requires all new or remodeled pools and spas to have at least two of seven approved safety measures, such as: 

• Self-closing and self-latching gates. 

• Pool covers. 

• Alarms on doors or windows leading to the pool area. 

The goal is to reduce unauthorized or unsupervised access, particularly by young children. 

Premises Liability Law 

Under California’s premises liability regulations, residential and commercial property owners are responsible for ensuring their property is safe for visitors.  

This extends to swimming pools, where owners may be liable for injuries resulting from inadequate maintenance, lack of safety measures, or hazards such as slippery surfaces. 

If negligence on the part of a property owner or operator leads to an accident, victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. 

Statute of Limitations 

Victims of swimming pool accidents have a limited timeframe to file a lawsuit in California. Generally, personal injury claims must be initiated within two years of the accident. However, certain exceptions may apply, so it’s essential to consult an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights. 

Do This After a Swimming Pool Accident 

If you or a loved one has been involved in a swimming pool accident, these steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your case: 

1. Seek medical attention: Your health and safety come first. Get treatment for any injuries, even if they seem minor at first. 

2. Document the scene: If possible, take photos of the accident location, including any hazards like broken tiles, lack of safety barriers, or faulty equipment. 

3. Collect witness statements: Gather contact information and statements from witnesses who can support your claim. 

4. File a report: Notify the property owner, manager, or operator about the accident and ensure a report is filed. 

5. Reach out to an attorney: A personal injury attorney experienced in swimming pool accidents can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation. 

Damages in Swimming Pool Accidents 

Victims of swimming pool accidents may be eligible for significant damages that compensate for the financial, physical, and emotional toll of their injuries. These may include: 

• Medical expenses (both immediate and future costs) 

• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity 

• Pain and suffering 

• Emotional distress 

• Rehabilitation and physical therapy 

• Loss of companionship in wrongful death cases 

Attorney Antaramian will use his personal injury law experience and knowledge to advocate for you.