Who’s Liable When You Slip and Fall at a Public Pool?

While public pools can be a great place to relax and cool off during hot weather, accidents can occur due to wet surfaces, uneven surfaces, inadequate lighting, or other hazards.

In the event of a slip and fall at a public pool, it’s crucial to identify who may be liable for the incident to help you recover compensation for your injuries. The slip and fall attorneys at Cofman Townsley can help victims of accidents recover compensation for their injuries and hold responsible parties accountable.

Potential Liable Parties for Pool Accident Injuries

Determining liability for slip and fall accidents at a public pool can be complex because multiple parties are often involved in pool and grounds maintenance and safety enforcement. In general, liability may fall on one or more of the following parties:

• Pool Owner or Manager

A pool owner or manager is responsible for taking reasonable steps to prevent accidents in and around the pool area. This means ensuring the pool is properly maintained, providing adequate warning signs, and enforcing safety rules.

For example, if an owner fails to maintain the pool area, such as not keeping the pool deck clean and free of debris, they may be liable for the injuries. Failure to provide adequate warning signs, such as indicating a slippery surface and directing guests to walk, can also indicate liability.

• Pool Staff

Lifeguards, attendants, and other pool staff members have a duty to prevent accidents in and around the pool area. If they fail to take action to avoid an accident, such as not addressing a hazard or not enforcing safety rules, they may be held liable for resulting injuries.

For example, if a lifeguard notices a person running near the pool and does not take action to warn or stop them, they may be held liable for the damages.

• Guests

Guests must exercise reasonable care while using the pool. In some cases, the victim of a slip and fall accident may be found partially liable for their injuries if they engage in reckless behavior, such as running or diving in a non-diving area. However, this does not absolve pool owners, staff, or third parties of their responsibility to maintain a safe environment and prevent accidents to the extent possible.

What Causes Slip and Fall Accidents?

Slip and fall accidents can occur at a pool for various reasons, resulting in serious injuries such as broken bones, or spinal cord injuries. The most common reasons for slip and fall accidents include:

• Wet or Slippery Surfaces

Pools are naturally wet environments, and surfaces such as pool decks, stairs, and diving boards can become very slippery when wet. If these surfaces are improperly maintained or have a slick coating, they can be hazardous to swimmers.

• Uneven or Damaged Surfaces

Uneven or damaged surfaces like cracked or broken tiles can create tripping hazards around the pool area. These poorly maintained surfaces can be hazardous for swimmers who may be walking around barefoot.

• Lack of Warning Signs

If there are hazards around the pool area, such as wet or slippery surfaces, it is important to have warning signs in place to alert swimmers. Failure to provide adequate warning can lead to accidents.

• Inadequate Lighting

Pools should be well-lit to help swimmers navigate the area safely. Inadequate lighting can make it difficult to see hazards and increase the risk of accidents.

• Crowded Pool Area

When a pool area is crowded, there is a greater risk of accidents due to swimmers bumping into each other, running, or diving in shallow areas.

• Improperly Designed or Maintained Pool Equipment

Pool equipment, such as diving boards and ladders, should be designed and maintained to prevent accidents. If equipment is improperly designed or maintained, it can lead to accidents.

Discuss Your Slip and Fall Accident Case with an Attorney

If you slip and fall at a public pool, you may face high medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering from your injuries.  Our attorneys at Cofman Townsley can help you recover compensation to pay for these damages, including hospital bills, lost earnings, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.