Swimming pools are a major source of entertainment and exercise and one of the most effective ways to get relief from the hot temperatures. However, they come with a risk of injury as well. If you have been hurt while using a pool on someone else’s property, whether it’s public or private, you may be eligible to file a premises liability claim. Liability laws for swimming pool accidents vary between states, making it important to get clarification from a local personal injury attorney before pursuing compensation.

A Guide to Swimming Pool Liability 

Public Pool Liability 

Public pool owners are responsible for adhering to specific federal and state regulations to keep pool areas safe. In Ohio, public pools are required to have appropriate signage regarding lifeguard service, diving, and emergency telephone locations. Pools must also be completely enclosed by a fence that is at least four feet tall, in good condition, and prevents unauthorized entry. If an injury occurs at a public pool, the owner can be held liable for noncompliance with signage and fencing laws, neglecting to provide emergency safety equipment, or failing to warn pool users of hidden dangers. 

Private Pool Liability 

Private pool owners also have a duty of care to warn their guests of any hazards that are not obvious. Liability also applies in situations where a child is injured because they are not properly supervised or there is no barrier to keep children out of the pool area. Typically, pool owners don’t owe any duty to trespassers on private property unless the trespasser is a child. Precaution must always be taken to prevent injury to children. 

Common Causes of Swimming Pool Accidents 

There are a number of different accidents that can result in a swimming pool injury. A personal injury attorney should be consulted to help determine if the property owner displayed any negligent behavior. Pool negligence can include inadequate maintenance, missing safety equipment, defective parts in or around the pool, malfunctioning diving boards, insufficient pool lighting, improperly trained pool staff, damaged or absent ladders, and missing marks that distinguish the shallow end of the pool from the deep end. 

If you believe negligence was a factor in your swimming pool accident, contact a personal injury attorney right away to discuss your legal options. Having served the Cincinnati area for over 30 years, the legal team at Lane, Felix & Raisbeck CO, LPA possess extensive knowledge of Ohio’s premises liability laws and can help identify your rights to compensation. They have successfully guided numerous clients through the claims process to recover the damages they deserve. Call (513) 922-7700 to speak with a seasoned personal injury attorney, or visit their website for more information on the different areas of practice they specialize in.