Austin Swimming Pool Accident Lawyer

Advocating for Victims of Pool Accidents in Texas

Swimming pools are a popular feature of many homes and resorts in the Austin area, offering a refreshing respite from the hot summer sun. While pools are a great way to cool off and have fun, they also pose a serious risk of injury or death if they are not properly maintained or supervised.

At The Doan Law Firm, we represent individuals who have been injured in swimming pool accidents, as well as the families of those who have tragically lost their lives in these incidents. Our Austin swimming pool accident attorney understands the unique legal issues that these cases present, and we are prepared to fight for the maximum recovery you are owed.

Contact us today at (800) 349-0000 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a swimming pool accident lawyer in Austin.

Texas Swimming Pool Laws

Swimming pool laws in Texas encompass various safety, health, and construction regulations to ensure public safety. Here are the key aspects:

Residential Pools

• Fencing and Barriers: Pools must be enclosed by a fence at least 48 inches high. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching, with latches placed at least 54 inches above the ground.
• Alarms: Pools must have alarms on doors or windows that provide direct access to the pool area from the house. Some municipalities require pool alarms that sound when someone enters the water.
• Drain Covers: Pools must have anti-entrapment drain covers to prevent accidents.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting is required for nighttime use, ensuring all parts of the pool are visible.

Public Pools

• Health and Sanitation: Public pools must meet specific health standards, including water quality testing for pH levels, chlorine, and other chemicals. Regular inspections by local health departments are mandatory.
• Lifeguards: Depending on the size and type of pool, lifeguards may be required during operating hours. Lifeguard training and certification are also regulated.
• Signage: Pools must display signs indicating depth, safety rules, and emergency contact information.
• Accessibility: Public pools must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing accessible entry and exit points for individuals with disabilities.

Building Codes and Permits

• Construction Permits: Homeowners or contractors must obtain building permits before constructing or significantly renovating a pool. Construction must adhere to local building codes, which may include specific guidelines for materials, plumbing, and electrical work.
• Inspections: Pools are subject to inspections during and after construction to ensure compliance with safety standards and building codes.

Liability and Insurance

• Homeowner Liability: Homeowners can be held liable for accidents or injuries that occur in or around their pool. It is advisable to carry liability insurance to cover potential incidents.
• Public Pool Operators: Operators of public pools must carry appropriate liability insurance and ensure all safety regulations are strictly followed to minimize risks.

Types of Swimming Pool Accidents

Swimming pool accidents can happen in a variety of ways, and the resulting injuries can range from minor to severe. Our firm represents clients who have been injured in all types of swimming pool accidents, including those that occur in public, residential, and private pools.

Some of the most common causes of swimming pool accidents include:

• Absence of fencing
• Defective pool equipment
• Drain entrapment
• Electrocution
• Failure to provide lifeguard services
• Improper maintenance and/or supervision
• Inadequate pool lighting
• Inadequate signage
• Slip and falls
• Unmarked pool depth
• Water contamination

Who is Liable for a Swimming Pool Accident?

When a swimming pool accident occurs, one of the first questions that must be answered is, “Who is liable?”

In many cases, the following parties may be held liable for a swimming pool accident:

• The pool owner
• The property owner
• The pool maintenance company
• The pool equipment manufacturer
• The pool designer
• The lifeguard or other staff on duty

Depending on the specific circumstances, a swimming pool accident may be caused by:

• Defective pool equipment or safety devices
• Defective pool design
• Improper pool maintenance
• Inadequate pool lighting or signage
• Failure to provide lifeguard services
• Inadequate supervision
• Failure to maintain a safe environment

Our Austin swimming pool accident lawyer has extensive experience with these types of cases, and we know how to determine who is liable for your injuries. We also know what it takes to win these complex cases, and we are prepared to put our experience to work for you.

What Compensation is Available in a Swimming Pool Accident Lawsuit?

Swimming pool accidents can result in serious injuries, and the resulting damages can be substantial. If you have been injured in a swimming pool accident, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, as well as for any scarring or disfigurement that you suffered as a result of the incident.

Depending on the specific circumstances, you may be able to recover compensation for the following damages:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Physical pain and suffering
• Mental and emotional distress
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium

In cases involving gross negligence, you may also be able to recover punitive damages. Unlike compensatory damages, which are intended to compensate you for your injuries, punitive damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. Punitive damages are not available in all swimming pool accident cases, but our Austin swimming pool accident attorney can review the facts of your case and help you understand if they may be available in your case.

Call our office at (800) 349-0000 or contact us online to get started on your case.