With summer just around the corner, families across Texas are eagerly anticipating the type of fun and relaxation that only waterparks offer. A waterpark is a great way to beat the heat while enjoying thrilling rides and refreshing pools. However, it’s important to recognize that waterparks can pose unexpected safety risks, especially drowning risks for children and inexperienced swimmers. By understanding these risks and taking proactive steps, you can help keep your family safe while still enjoying a memorable summer outing to a waterpark.
Common Risks at Waterparks
Waterparks are designed for fun and enjoyment, but accidents can and do happen. If a waterpark is poorly managed, then the risk of an accident can increase significantly, too. Understanding the potential risks before you go to the waterpark can help you stay safe throughout the day.
Common risks, accidents, and injuries in the average waterpark include:
- Drowning Accidents: Drowning is the leading cause of fatalities at waterparks and public pools. Drowning accidents can occur due to insufficient supervision, poorly scheduled or trained lifeguards, or design flaws in pools and water attractions, such as wave pools that cause an undercurrent. Overcrowding can make it especially difficult for lifeguard staff to identify and respond to emergencies in a timely manner.
- Slip-and-Fall Injuries: Wet and slippery surfaces are common throughout waterparks, particularly around pools and water slides. Slippery conditions can easily lead to slip-and-fall accidents, which may cause injuries ranging from sprains to broken bones.
- Ride Malfunctions: Attractions like water slides and wave pools require regular maintenance to keep them safe for daily use. When equipment malfunctions or is improperly maintained, it could cause an unpredictable accident that injures guests in various ways.
- Poorly Trained Staff: Staffing issues can also heighten risks to guests in waterparks. Untrained or inattentive lifeguards may fail to respond appropriately in emergencies, while ride operators without adequate instruction may inadvertently place guests in harm’s way.
Some additional factors to look out for include overcrowding, insufficient safety signage, and a lack of accessible emergency equipment, such as life jackets or first-aid kits. By identifying potential hazards, you can make an informed decision about whether you want to visit.
Safety Tips for Families at Waterparks
Safety tips for before you visit the waterpark include:
- Research the Waterpark: Look into the waterpark’s safety record, checking online reviews or news reports for any history of negligence or accidents.
- Confirm Certifications: Verify that the park meets safety standards and employs certified lifeguards and trained staff.
- Understand Ride Restrictions: Familiarize yourself with posted height, weight, or age restrictions for rides that your family might want to see.
Safety tips for your time at the waterpark include:
- Supervise Constantly: Always keep an eye on your children, even when lifeguards are present. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, especially in crowded pools.
- Equip Safety Gear: Provide life jackets or flotation assistance devices for weaker swimmers and young children, including young children who you would consider to be strong swimmers.
- Stay Hydrated and Rested: Fatigue and dehydration can impair your ability to swim. Take regular breaks and hydrate often, especially during hot summer days.
Legal Liability for Waterpark Accidents
When a waterpark accident happens, the waterpark might be responsible for injuries or losses based on how the accident happened. Waterparks have a legal duty to provide a reasonably safe environment for their visitors. If this duty is not upheld and someone is hurt due to that failure, it is only right for the injured party to consider taking legal action against the waterpark.
A waterpark may be held accountable for injuries caused by negligence, such as:
- Poor maintenance of rides and facilities
- Employing untrained or underqualified staff
- Failing to post visible safety warnings or enforce safety rules
- Allowing dangerous overcrowding that impedes proper supervision
Waterparks fall under the broader legal concept of premises liability, too, which means that property owners must take reasonable steps to identify and address potential hazards. When a waterpark fails to uphold this duty and someone is injured as a result, victims have the right to seek compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
After a Waterpark Accident, Talk to an Attorney
If you were injured in a waterpark accident or lost a loved one to a drowning accident at a Texas waterpark, make Hilliard Law the first law firm you call for legal counsel, guidance, and moral support during this difficult time. For decades, our trial lawyers have focused on complicated injury and wrongful death cases against large companies and defendants, such as those involving waterpark-related incidents. We provide comprehensive legal representation, from attempting to negotiate settlements with insurance companies to representing clients in court if necessary. Throughout the process, we prioritize your needs and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you and your family deserve.
Need help after a waterpark accident in Texas? Call (866) 927-3420 and request a free consultation.