It is late in the swimming season in Phoenix, a common time when parents and adults let their guard down around water and are lax about the water-related concerns that are present when children swim. But the fact that kids have been swimming for a few months this year does not lessen the likelihood of a drowning occurring. Water attracts children and can be a safe environment for recreation but it can turn deadly in a matter of moments.
Every year, multiple children die in Phoenix area swimming pool accidents due to accidental drownings. Often, these accidents would never have occurred if the proper safety guards were in place or if adult supervision was present. When negligence or recklessness on the part of a swimming pool owner or operator is the reason that a child downs or suffers a near drowning, the child and his or her parents may be entitled to legal relief for their losses, including proper compensation to cover for any medical expenses. Speaking with a lawyer who represents the victims of swimming pool accidents and drownings may help you understand whether you have a valid claim, and if so, whether your family is entitled to relief.
Police in Phoenix were called to an apartment complex this week after a near drowning of a three-year-old girl. The incident took place near 43rd Avenue and McDowell where several parents and children were reportedly enjoying a community pool. One adult allegedly offered to watch a friend’s three-year-old child while watching her own two children in the pool. The adult lost track of the friend’s child, mistaking the girl for another in the pool. By the time the adult realized the 3-year-old was missing, the girl was underwater at the bottom of the pool.
Adults in the area removed the girl from the water and performed CPR until paramedics arrived on the scene. EMS workers transported the girl to Phoenix Children’s Hospital in extremely critical condition following the incident; her current status is not clear at this time.
Officials believe that three children, including the victim, were sharing a non-lifesaving flotation device known as water wings, something experts have cautioned against as they can provide children with an invalid sense of safety in deep water.
When an adult or child is injured or killed in a swimming pool drowning in Phoenix or the surrounding Valley towns, it can be difficult to understand the legal significance of the incident including whether anyone bears liability for the damages sustained. The lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. want you to know that they are available to help you understand your child’s accident and whether you have a valid claim.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we offer all injury victims a free, no obligation telephone consultation toll free at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 819-5191. We have a licensed lawyer standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to take your call and answer your questions whether you need help during the day, in the evening, or overnight. We are ready to help you today so do not hesitate.
If your loved one or your son or daughter has been injured in a public or private swimming pool, cal us today and let us help you.
Prior Blog Entry:
Mesa Crash Kills 2; Speeding a Factor, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published June 10, 2014.
Resource:
Toddler critical after being pulled from pool, Fox 10 News, published June 16, 2014.