While drowning dominates pool safety discussions often, internal injuries pose a less visible but equally serious risk. In New Jersey, where pool gatherings are popular, understanding these dangers and how to strengthen a potential injury claim is crucial.
Internal pool injuries can result from faulty equipment, inadequate supervision or unsafe pool designs. Promptly recognizing the signs and knowing how to respond can significantly impact recovery and legal outcomes.
The unseen dangers
Internal injuries from pool accidents can include:
- Spinal cord damage from improper diving
- Organ trauma from high-pressure water jets
- Infections from poorly maintained water
- Internal bleeding from sudden impacts
These injuries may not be immediately apparent. An individual who seems fine after a pool incident might develop severe complications later. Beyond physical harm, these injuries can inflict deep emotional trauma, potentially leading to long-term psychological distress.
Legal protections and your rights
New Jersey’s Premises Liability Act requires property owners to maintain safe conditions, including proper pool maintenance and warning signs.
If you suffer an internal injury due to a pool owner’s negligence, you may seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Ongoing care costs
However, New Jersey’s “modified comparative negligence” rule bars you from recovering damages if you’re found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident.
Strengthening your claim
To strengthen your internal pool injury claim, consider strategies such as:
- Seeking immediate medical treatment, even for seemingly minor incidents.
- Preserving physical evidence and document everything, from photos to medical records.
- Understanding New Jersey’s Premises Liability Act to identify potential violations.
- Acting promptly, as building a strong case takes time.
- Consulting with a swimming accident attorney to determine how comparative negligence rules affect your case.
Note that there’s a two-year statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit, and settlements with insurance companies may have different timelines.
Staying safe and informed
While securing compensation is necessary, prevention remains vital. Consider taking safety measures such as:
- Designating a “water watcher” at pool gatherings
- Understanding risks associated with different pool types
- Regularly testing water quality
- Educating pool users about safe behavior
The hidden dangers of internal pool injuries in New Jersey are real and potentially life-altering. Understanding your rights and acting fast can strengthen your claim and protect your future. Don’t let a fun time at the pool bring you a lifetime of regret.