Though delayed, public pools in Goldsboro have finally opened for the summer at limited capacity. Kids can already be seen splashing away the day trying to enjoy what is left of their summer vacations. Safety is not usually the first thought that comes to mind in the midst of all the fun. However, public pools are a common place for injuries to occur.
The upkeep of a public pool area including the pool itself, the pool deck, and all facilities that operate in conjunction with the pool are the responsibility of city maintenance teams. Failure to execute proper and regular upkeep are often the cause of injuries, and the city may be held liable.
Common injuries include slip and falls on pool decks where standing water is not properly draining. This can be due to a clogged drain, or design flaw. Drain entrapment occurs when a pool drain is improperly covered, causing swimmers to get sucked into the drain itself. This can even result in catastrophic injury such as amputation or disembowelment. Improper chemical treatment of water can result in cloudiness or murkiness that makes it hard for lifeguards to see children who are underwater. This can result in accidental drowning. Faulty gates or fences may allow small children into areas where they should not be resulting in injury or drowning.
Any of these events should be discussed with a personal injury attorney who can determine if there is enough evidence to pursue a lawsuit, which could ultimately result in significant compensation. If you or someone you know have been injured in a public pool area, consult with an attorney to find out what your best options are.