Backyard swimming pools in California are typically places where happy memories are made each summer. However, it can be a dangerous area if safety standards are not maintained. A slip or trip accident could happen in the blink of an eye, and if it happened due to negligence of the property owner, premises liability lawsuits might follow.
Typical pool area accidents
The area surrounding a swimming pool is susceptible to puddling water and slippery surfaces. Puddles forming on uneven decks are sure to cause slip-and-fall accidents, and randomly placed objects or exposed pool cover anchors are easy to trip over.
Precautions to prevent injuries
Whether there is a pool party or just the neighborhood kids have fun, the following steps might keep everyone safe:
- Ensure that walkways in the pool area have proper traction
- Remove trip hazards and ensure pool cover anchors are flush with the surface
- Install handrails where necessary, like at steps or slanted walkways
- Consider a pool fence to keep children safe when there are no adults around
- Consider warning signs to draw attention to hazards
- Forbid running and playing where slippery wet areas could cause falls
- Do not allow glassware around the pool — broken glass could cause serious injuries.
- Make sure children are supervised, and keep a first aid kit nearby
- Have a cellphone handy for emergencies
Anyone in California who suffers injuries at a swimming pool might have grounds to seek damage recovery by filing a premises liability lawsuit against the property owner. Premises liability lawsuits could be complicated, especially when it comes to proving negligence. A successfully presented claim could lead to the civil court awarding financial relief to cover medical expenses and other economic and non-economic damages.
