This is the time of year when people from all over the world flock to Florida to get a break from the winter. However, for too many people, these vacations take a devastating turn when an accident at their hotel leaves them reeling from a catastrophic accident.
Many of these accidents are suffered in swimming pools. People can get hurt, suffer brain damage or drown when proper pool safety regulations are not observed. If you or a loved one has recently been injured in an accident at a hotel swimming pool, then it can be wise to have an idea of what state laws say about pool safety in order to assess your legal options.
One of the most crucial regulations in place to keep public swimming pools safe is a mechanism or system that prevents entrapment in drains and suction outlets. Anti-entrapment devices are required in every public swimming pool in Florida.
Further, it is necessary for pools to have pump shut-off systems, vacuum release systems, and devices that disable the drain. These also can prevent people and objects from getting stuck in or sucked into dangerous mechanisms.
Florida statutes also specify that public pools are expected to have certified lifeguards, visible signage warning people of potential hazardous conditions as well as current and valid operating permits in place in order to be in compliance with state laws. Pools must be constructed, developed and modified only after first securing the appropriate permits and are subject to inspection.
In the event that the operator or owner of a pool fails to comply with these or any other requirements and an accident happens as a result, the victim and his or her family may have grounds to pursue a premises liability claim. Discussing the details of a specific incident with an attorney can be crucial in helping you understand your rights and options for holding a hotel accountable for damages.
