Summer is in swing in West Des Moines, and for many this means a trip to the lake or a dip in the pool. Unfortunately, if the proper safety measures are not taken a day on the water can turn tragic with a life lost too soon due to a drowning incident.
Some drowning incidents are true accidents, but sometimes a drowning takes place because someone was negligent or reckless. When this happens, the family of the victim may want to pursue a wrongful death claim against the responsible party.
For example, some swimming pools or beaches staff lifeguards. If a lifeguard commits an act of recklessness or negligence that leads to the drowning death, the owner of the facility may be held responsible in a subsequent legal claim.
In addition, the government on the federal and state level has specific regulations owners of swimming facilities must follow. For example, under federal law those who operate a public pool must have newer-style drain covers installed to prevent suction. People would get caught in older style drain covers and drown. If a person drowns in a pool due to an outdated drain cover, the owner of the facility may be subject to a wrongful death claim.
No one expects a loved one to die due to a drowning incident, but such incidents occur every summer. Safety is key, and those who own pools need to take care that their guests do not encounter incidents that put them in danger. If a person drowns due to the recklessness or negligence of another, the victims loved ones may want to determine whether a wrongful death claim is in their best interests.
