Nothing is better during a Northwest summer than being in or near the water. Whether it is Puget Sound, one of our numerous lakes and rivers, or a pool (be it public or private), the abundance of water is part of what makes this region a great place to live. Being in and around the water is fun, refreshing, and relaxing and a great way to cool off on a warm summer day.
But being in the water is not without its hazards. Each year, dozens of people suffer serious injuries or death from aquatic activities in Washington State. Whether it is swimming, diving, boating, snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, wave running, wake boarding, water skiing, boogey boarding, rafting, inter-tubing, surfing, sail boarding, kayaking, or canoeing, water poses a serious threat. And when you add alcohol consumption into the mix, the consequences can be very dangerous.
In fact, King County is so concerned about drowning deaths and aquatic injuries that they have made using life vests in rivers mandatory. Children are especially vulnerable to drowning and aquatic injuries.
The Risk of Injury
At Bishop Legal, we represent seriously injured aquatic injury and drowning victims. When there is negligence, we pursue all avenues of recovery to help our clients recover financially from their injuries and damages. In the tragic event of a fatality, we represent the deceased’s family’s estate in wrongful death actions.
People can be injured numerous ways on the water, these injuries may include: spinal cord injuries such as in diving accidents, traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, disfigurement, broken bones, and other serious injuries resulting from near-drowning or aquatic accidents.
When Is Their Negligence on the Water?
To prove negligence, you need to show there were violations of the law or clear disregard for safety. Examples of negligence on the water may include:
- An overloaded boat or raft
- Unsafe water training
- Failure to have no diving signs
- Inebriated boat or jet ski operators
When you or other family members are in the water, it is important to take precautions to prevent aquatic injuries. Children should be supervised at all times and wear life vests. If you have your own pool, there are childproof barriers and gates that can be purchased to prevent children from getting into deeper areas of the pool. Taking these precautions can help save lives and prevent serious injuries.
Trust Our Experienced, Compassionate Injury Attorneys
Our law firm has effectively represented thousands of clients. We have a proven track record including several multi-million-dollar awards for our clients. We work with each client personally and care deeply about their recovery and their financial well-being after a serious injury is sustained.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious aquatic injury in Washington State, please contact us. Our knowledgeable, expert team of attorneys will work hard to deliver the results you deserve and hold wrongdoers accountable. We offer free consultations.
