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Swimming pool accidents are more common than most people realize. According to the CDC’s Drowning Facts, about 11 people die from drowning every day in the United States. The CDC also states that drowning is:
- The leading cause of death for children ages 1-4
- The second cause of unintentional injury death following car accidents for children ages 5-14
While not all instances of drowning are fatal, near-drowning can lead to brain damage, memory loss, and long-term disability. Drowning accidents often happen because of someone else’s negligence.
At Shea Law Group, our Chicago Swimming Pool Accident Attorneys help hold these liable parties responsible. Whether the drowning occurred in a backyard, an apartment pool, or a public pool, or somewhere else, we know what it takes to win these cases.
How Illinois Law Classifies Pool Injury Victims
When someone gets hurt in or around a swimming pool, the property owner isn’t always automatically at fault. Their legal responsibility depends on why you were on the property in the first place. Illinois premises liability law classifies individuals on a property into three legal categories: trespassers, licensees, and invitees. Each group is treated differently in a premises liability case.
Trespassers
A trespasser is someone who was not invited onto the property and has no legal right to be there. In most cases, property owners don’t owe trespassers any duty of care. However, if the trespasser is a child, the rules change.
Property owners must take reasonable steps to keep children out of danger, especially if they have a swimming pool. This is called the “attractive nuisance” doctrine. Pools attract children who may not understand the risk of drowning or injury. If a homeowner doesn’t install fencing, lock gates, or take other steps to secure the area, they can be held liable if a child is hurt or killed, even if the child was trespassing.
Licensees
A licensee is someone who has permission to be on the property but is there for their own reasons, not for the property owner’s benefit. Think of a friend stopping by uninvited but welcome, or a neighbor using the pool with casual permission.
Property owners have a legal duty to warn licensees about known dangers, like a broken ladder, loose tiles, or faulty electrical equipment. If they fail to do that and someone gets injured, they could be on the hook.
Invitees
An invitee is someone who was specifically invited to use the pool or visit the property—a social guest, tenant, customer, or paying visitor. Invitees get the highest level of legal protection under premises liability laws.
If you’re an invitee and the property owner didn’t keep the pool safe, post warnings, or fix hazards, they are likely liable for your injuries. These are often the strongest cases because the property owner has a clear duty to make the space safe.
What If You’re Not Sure Where You Fall?
Don’t guess. Even if you’re not sure whether you were an invitee, licensee, or trespasser, call Shea Law Group. Our Chicago swimming pool accident lawyers will review the facts, explain your rights, and tell you exactly where your case stands—all for free. If someone was responsible for your injury, we’ll fight to make them pay.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Pool Accident?
In pool injury cases, more than one person or company could be responsible. It’s not just about who owns the pool. It’s also about who failed to keep it safe. At Shea Law Group, our swimming pool accident lawyers in Chicago dig deep to uncover every party that played a role in the accident, because more liability means more opportunity to recover what you’re owed.
Here are some of the most common parties we hold accountable in swimming pool accident claims.
Property Owners
Whether it’s a private homeowner, a landlord, or a business, the person or company that owns the property has a legal duty to make sure the pool is safe. That includes fencing, signage, maintenance, and supervision. If they failed in that duty, we hold them responsible.
Property Managers and Landlords
In apartment buildings, hotels, gyms, and community centers, property managers are often responsible for the day-to-day safety of pool guests. If they knew about a danger and didn’t fix it or neglected regular inspections, they can be sued for negligence.
Pool Maintenance Companies
Many businesses hire outside companies to clean and maintain their pools. If those companies cut corners, use the wrong chemicals, or leave equipment in an unsafe condition, they may be directly liable for any injuries or deaths.
Lifeguards and Security Staff
If a lifeguard was distracted, unqualified, or not present when required, the person or the company who hired them may be at fault. That includes private staffing firms and even public municipalities.
Government Entities
Public pools, like those at city parks or public schools, may fall under government responsibility. These cases involve different legal procedures and shorter deadlines, but Shea Law Group knows how to handle them.
Manufacturers and Product Designers
Sometimes the problem isn’t with people—it’s with the equipment. Defective diving boards, faulty drains, broken pool covers, or malfunctioning filtration systems can all lead to serious swimming pool injuries. In these cases, we may pursue a product liability claim against the manufacturer.
What to Expect When You Call Shea Law Group
When you contact Shea Law Group after a pool accident, we move fast. Here’s what you can expect after reaching out:
- Free Case Review: Our swimming pool accident attorneys in Chicago review the facts and can tell you upfront whether or not you have a swimming pool accident case.
- Immediate Action: If we take your case, we get to work immediately, securing evidence, identifying who’s at fault, and protecting your right to compensation.
- Smart, Aggressive Representation: We don’t play games with insurance companies or drag our feet in negotiations. We build strong cases, push for full compensation, and take it to court if necessary.
- Straight Answers and Real Updates: You won’t be left wondering what’s going on with your case. We keep you informed and in control from day one through settlement or trial.
Our attorneys work on a contingency-fee basis. This means hiring us costs nothing upfront, and we only get paid after winning your case.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
If you or someone you care about has suffered a physical injury in a swimming pool accident, and you believe the owner of the property was at fault, contact Shea Law Group today. We understand the complex legal issues involved in winning a personal injury case, and our experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers will work to get you the compensation you deserve. We don’t charge until we win your case. Receive a free consultation when you call us at (773) 365-0040 or reach out online.
