Summer is approaching. This means lots of fun activities, like beach trips and pool days. While a dip in the pool is a great way to beat the heat, it can be more dangerous than you may realize. Read on to learn more about swimming pool accidents in New Jersey and what to do if an accident occurs.
How do swimming pool accidents occur?
When it comes to a swimming pool accident, the most common cause is pool owner negligence. Some examples of pool owner negligence include:
- Failing to install all necessary and compliant drain covers, fences, and alarms in the pool area
- Neglecting small children who are swimming
- Failing to provide children who are not tall enough to stand with working floatation devices
- Swimming while under the influence, or allowing others to do so
- Neglecting to stow away all portable ladders when the pool is not in use
Fulfilling the burden of proof:
If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation. However, in order to recover the compensation you deserve, you will have to fulfill the burden of proof. Be sure to:
- Call 911: Many people want to avoid causing a scene and involving the police, however, it is important to do so. The police can send an ambulance to the scene, file an accident report, and more.
- Seek medical attention: It is imperative that you go to the hospital, your doctor, or an urgent care facility immediately after an accident occurs. This will ensure that your injuries are treated properly, while simultaneously providing you with proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. This can play a large role in a personal injury case, so be sure to ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents.
- Document the scene: While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, take pictures and videos of the hazardous conditions that caused your accident to occur.
- Obtain witness contacts: If anyone saw the accident occur, he or she may be able to provide important witness testimony. Ask for their name and phone number.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In order to recover the compensation you need and deserve in order to heal, you will need to file your claim on time. This deadline is known as a statute of limitations. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within two years will typically mean losing your opportunity to recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact our Experienced New Jersey Firm
If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party and wish to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.
