Most Common Causes of Water-Related Injuries
Spring is upon us, and in just a few short months, summer will be in full swing. This means that individuals and families in California and across the nation will soon populate the shores of beaches, lakes, and pools alike. For many, the cool and enticing water is too much of a temptation to resist. However, bodies of water of any type and size can pose grave risks to adults and children. Unless reasonable care is exercised by all who use these places of refreshment, serious injury or death can easily occur.
Top Dangers at Beaches, Lakes, and Pools
Being aware of the dangers that exist on and around bodies of water is the first step in protecting yourself and your family from harm. Some of the more common culprits in personal injury accidents that occur on or near water include:
- Boats and powered watercraft: Boats, jetskis, and other powered watercraft can be dangerous not only for the riders but for others swimming or relaxing in the water near these vessels. Powered watercraft should only be operated by individuals who are properly trained and/or licensed. When operating powered watercraft, the operator should be cognizant of the presence of others in the water and operate the vessel at a safe and reasonable speed.
- Maritime life: In addition to the marine life that swimmers and others who use the water are cautioned about – sharks, rays, and jellyfish, for example – bacteria and parasites present in some bodies of water can also wreak havoc on a person’s health. While it may be nearly impossible to know if a lake or pond is safe for swimming, the owner of a pool will almost certainly be responsible for injuries or deaths that result from a failure to properly treat the pool water before use.
- The water itself: A drowning can occur unexpectedly and in a matter of moments. Even near-drownings can leave victims with permanent injuries, disabilities, and impediments. Young children should always be supervised by an adult who is able to swim and should also wear flotation devices, even in “shallow” water. Adults who are boating away from shore should also wear flotation devices. Finally, heed authorities’ warnings about the presence of riptides and strong currents and refrain from entering the water in such conditions.
Seek Help if an Injury Occurs
If you or a loved one find yourselves injured in California this summer, let the compassionate and dedicated team of professionals at Heiting & Irwin come to your aid. Our firm has over 40 years of experience helping victims injured in a variety of ways and under a variety of circumstances. We will help you take the guesswork out of the future: We can assist you in holding property owners and others whose careless behavior contributed to your accident accountable for their negligence. Call Heiting & Irwin today at (951) 682-6400 or contact us online and schedule your free initial case consultation.
