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As Labor Day is quickly approaching and people are spending their last moments of summer in the pool, it is important to understand pool safety and what to do in the event of an injury. Swimming pool accidents are serious and if you have been hurt in one, it is in your best interest to reach out to our experienced New Jersey personal injury attorneys today to discuss your options.

What are the common causes of swimming pool accidents in New Jersey?

There are several causes of swimming pool accidents. However, one of the most common is pool owner negligence. A pool owner has a responsibility to make their property safe for all of those who use it. If an injury results from a pool owner’s failure to make their property conditions safe, they may be held liable by the court. Pool owners should take the following precautions to make sure that they are doing all that they can to prevent accidents:

  • Never leave a child unattended in the water or near it
  • If there is a deep end where guests cannot stand, make sure they are able to swim properly
  • Stay away from drains and have covers for them
  • Install barriers, covers, alarms, and fencing on and around the pool
  • Stowaway portable ladders when they are not being used. Sometimes, small children who are unable to swim are attracted to pools. If the ladder is removed safely, the child will not be able to climb into the pool and harm themselves
  • It can be beneficial to know how to perform CPR in the event that a swimmer is drowning
  • Swim sober
  • Keep electronic devices away from the pool to avoid electrocution
  • Inform all swimmers of shallow areas where they cannot dive

How can I fulfill the burden of proof?

You must be able to prove that the pool owner’s negligence was a proximate cause of your injuries. In order to support this claim, you will need to obtain vital evidence backing this assertion. If possible, take the following steps after your accident:

  • Call 911 –  The police will dispatch an ambulance to the scene and file an accident report.
  • Collect contact information from any witnesses to the accident. If anyone saw the accident occur, they may be able to verify your version of events which can play a big role in a personal injury case.
  • Take pictures and videos of the hazardous conditions that caused your accident to occur.
  • Seek medical attention to ensure that your injuries are properly treated. Ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents leading to the origin and severity of your injuries.
  • Retain an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney to help you gather more evidence that can be essential to your claim.
  • Note that New Jersey has a statute of limitations of two years from the date of your accident to file your claim. Make sure that you have promptly met all of your deadlines with your lawyer.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW JERSEY FIRM

Here at McNerney & McAuliffe, we understand how confusing certain legal matters can be, which is why we are here to provide clients from all walks of life with the experienced, compassionate legal guidance they need. If you require the legal assistance of an attorney to help you through a criminal law matter, personal injury matter, family law matter, or otherwise, you can turn to us. Contact McNerney & McAuliffe today to learn more about what we can do for you.

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