When negligence turns recreation into tragedy, we fight for justice and compensation for California swimming pool accident victims.

Understanding Swimming Pool Accident Injury and Wrongful Death Claims in California

Swimming pools are a staple of California living, offering a refreshing escape from the heat and a hub for recreation. Found in private residences, apartment complexes, hotels, parks, and public facilities, pools provide enjoyment but also pose serious risks. Each year, swimming pool accidents lead to life-changing injuries and, tragically, wrongful deaths—particularly affecting children.

When negligence contributes to these incidents, California law allows victims and their families to seek justice. Attorney Art Majlessi and The Majlessi Law Firm have decades of experience representing injury victims and grieving families statewide.

Common Swimming Pool Accidents in California

Swimming pool injuries and fatalities can occur in many ways:

• Slip and Falls: Wet surfaces around the pool can cause serious falls leading to fractures or head injuries.
• Diving Accidents: Shallow water or unmarked depths can result in spinal cord injuries or paralysis.
• Drain Entrapments: Suction from pool drains can trap swimmers underwater, leading to drowning or traumatic injuries.
• Electrocution: Faulty pool lighting or wiring can cause electrical shocks or burns.
• Drowning: A leading cause of accidental child deaths, often linked to inadequate supervision or lack of safety barriers.

Injuries can range from minor cuts to catastrophic brain or spinal cord injuries. Victims often face overwhelming medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and long-term care needs.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim After a Pool Accident

If you’re injured due to a swimming pool owner’s negligence, you can pursue a personal injury claim. To succeed, you must prove:

• The owner or operator owed you a duty of care.
• They breached that duty through negligence or unsafe conditions.
• The breach directly caused your injury.
• You suffered damages such as medical costs, lost income, or pain and suffering.

California follows pure comparative negligence, meaning you can still recover damages even if partially at fault. For example, if you’re 30% responsible for the incident, you can still claim 70% of the total damages.

Wrongful Death Claims in Swimming Pool Accidents

When a swimming pool accident results in death, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. Eligible claimants include spouses, children, domestic partners, or other financially dependent relatives. Damages may cover:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of love, companionship, comfort, and guidance
• Emotional suffering and loss of consortium

Steps to Take Immediately After a Swimming Pool Accident

1. Seek Emergency Medical Care: Prompt treatment ensures your safety and creates medical documentation of the injuries.
2. Report the Incident: Notify the property owner, pool manager, or appropriate authorities if the pool is public.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos or videos, collect witness statements, and keep detailed notes about the conditions and events leading to the injury.
4. Preserve Documentation: Maintain copies of medical records, expenses, insurance communication, and police reports.
5. Consult an Experienced Attorney: A skilled personal injury lawyer can determine liability, identify responsible parties, and handle negotiations with insurers.

How a California Swimming Pool Accident Attorney Helps

• Case Evaluation: Assessing fault, identifying liable parties, and calculating damages.
• Investigation: Gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing safety protocols or code violations.
• Insurance Negotiations: Fighting for maximum settlements from pool owners, management companies, or insurers.
• Litigation: Representing clients aggressively in court when fair settlements aren’t offered.