Columbia Swimming Pool Accident Attorney

Protecting Your Rights & Wellbeing After a Pool Accident

Swimming pools are a source of fun, relaxation, and recreation—especially during the warm months in Columbia, MO. But they can also be the scene of serious accidents, including life-altering injuries or even death. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a pool-related incident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Columbia swimming pool accident lawyer at Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call (888) 287-1046 today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free case review.

The Dangers of Swimming Pools

While pools may seem harmless on the surface, they pose numerous risks to both children and adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional injury-related deaths in the U.S., particularly for children aged 1–14.

Even non-fatal pool accidents can lead to catastrophic consequences, such as brain injuries from lack of oxygen, spinal cord injuries from diving into shallow water, or slip-and-fall injuries around wet pool decks. Public pools, private residential pools, apartment complexes, and hotel pools all have potential hazards if not properly maintained and supervised.

Some of the most dangerous conditions associated with swimming pools include:

• Lack of fencing or proper barriers
• Inadequate supervision (lifeguards or adults)
• Slippery surfaces or broken tiles
• Missing or defective drain covers
• Unmarked shallow water zones
• Malfunctioning pool equipment (e.g., filters or suction systems)
• Poor water quality or chemical imbalances

These hazards make it crucial for pool owners to ensure a safe environment for guests and residents.

Common Types of Swimming Pool Accidents

At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., our Columbia swimming pool accident lawyers handle a wide range of pool-related injury claims. Some of the most common include:

• Drowning and Near-Drowning Incidents: Drowning can occur silently and in seconds. Near-drowning incidents often result in long-term brain damage due to lack of oxygen.
• Slip and Fall Accidents: Slippery pool decks or walkways with no grip or warning signs can cause dangerous falls, leading to broken bones, head injuries, or back injuries.
• Diving Accidents: Improper signage or designating shallow areas as diving zones can result in traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord injuries from diving into water that is too shallow.
• Entrapment Injuries: Defective pool drains or suction systems can trap swimmers underwater by pulling in hair, limbs, or clothing.
• Chemical Exposure: Improper pool maintenance or incorrect chemical use can lead to skin burns, eye irritation, or respiratory problems.
• Electrocution: Faulty pool lighting, wiring, or electrical systems can cause serious shocks or fatal electrocution.

Who is Liable for a Swimming Pool Accident?

Liability in swimming pool accidents often depends on the circumstances of the accident and the status of the injured person (e.g., guest, trespasser, child). Missouri premises liability laws hold property owners accountable when they fail to keep their premises reasonably safe.

Possible liable parties include:

• Private homeowners with backyard pools who fail to fence the area or supervise children.
• Landlords or property managers at apartment complexes or rental properties who ignore hazards.
• Hotels or resorts that do not maintain their pools or employ qualified lifeguards.
• Municipalities or school districts if the accident occurred at a public or school pool.
• Manufacturers of defective pool equipment or chemical systems.

Pool owners must take steps to protect children and visitors, including securing the area, posting warning signs, and regularly maintaining the pool. In some cases, more than one party may share liability for a swimming pool accident.

What to Do After a Swimming Pool Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a swimming pool accident in Columbia, MO:

1. Seek medical attention immediately.
2. Document the scene — take photos, gather witness information, and note any dangerous conditions.
3. Report the incident to the property owner or pool manager.
4. Avoid making statements to insurance adjusters before consulting a lawyer.
5. Contact a Columbia swimming pool accident attorney at Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. to discuss your legal options.

Swimming Pool Accident FAQs

Can I sue if my child drowned in someone else’s pool in Columbia, MO?

Yes. If the pool owner failed to take reasonable safety precautions (like fencing the pool or supervising children), you may be able to file a wrongful death or premises liability lawsuit.

Is the pool owner always responsible for an injury?

Not necessarily. Liability depends on whether the pool owner was negligent. Our legal team will investigate whether the owner violated safety regulations or failed to maintain the pool properly.

What is the “attractive nuisance” doctrine in Missouri?

Under this legal principle, pool owners may be held liable if a child trespasses and is injured or drowns, especially if the pool was easily accessible and not properly secured. Children are treated differently under Missouri law due to their inability to recognize danger.

How long do I have to file a pool accident claim in Missouri?

Generally, Missouri law provides five years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim. However, wrongful death claims must typically be filed within three years. Don’t delay—contact our attorneys as soon as possible.

What types of compensation can I recover?

Victims may be entitled to:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Disability or disfigurement
• Wrongful death damages (if a loved one died)

Contact a Columbia Swimming Pool Accident Lawyer Today

At Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C., we understand how devastating a swimming pool accident can be for you and your family. Whether you’re dealing with serious injuries or mourning the loss of a loved one, our experienced Columbia swimming pool accident lawyers are here to help you hold negligent parties accountable.

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—you don’t pay unless we win your case. Let us handle the legal process while you focus on healing.

Reach out to us at (888) 287-1046 for a free consultation, and let us help you protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.