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New Swimming Pool Regulations in Miami-Dade

Swimming pool owners must be compliant with local and state regulations to prevent injuries and insulate against liability. In the event that an owner is in violation of regulations at the time of an accident, the property owner can be held liable for damages. In a recent move to improve pool safety, the Miami-Dade County Land Use and Development Committee approved a measure to prohibit high-voltage lights and circuits in private pools. The regulatory shift is in response to the death of a 7-year-old who was electrocuted by a swimming pool light.

Pool owners are always responsible for ensuring that the premises is safe and that pools are properly maintained. In the event of an accident or injury in a private or public swimming pool, victims and their loved ones should consult with an experienced attorney who can investigate the case and pursue just compensation. Our Miami swimming pool accident attorneys are committed to raising awareness to prevent future injuries. We are also dedicated to representing victims in the event of an accident to maximize compensation for serious injury or wrongful death.

According to reports, a pool light was connected to a transformer to reduce the voltage from the electrical panel in the home. An attorney for the family said that the transformer malfunctioned, sending 120 volts instead of 12 volts to the light fixture. An initial investigation determined that the light was not properly grounded. Had safety mechanisms been in place, it would have tripped the circuit at the time of the accident. A lawsuit has been filed on behalf of the victim’s family against the manufacturers and three companies that handled the wiring on their home.

Since the electrocution accident, the county has passed an ordinance requiring that underwater lighting in all swimming pool use transformers, low-voltage circuits and grounded lights that do not exceed 15 volts and 300 watts. The victim’s father spoke at the hearing to urge improved pool safety and to support the new measure. The Florida Swimming Pool Association has requested that the measure not be passed, claiming that it is taking regulations too far. A representative from the organization said that the ordinance as drafted could eliminate improved technologies that are even safer than those required.

The legislation will now go before the Miami-Dade County Commission for final approval. If the ordinance is passed, pool owners will be required to be compliant in only weeks. If you are a pool owner, it is important to stay abreast of changing legislation to ensure compliance. In addition to taking action to prevent future injuries and accidents, you will also help protect yourself from liability in the event of an accident. In the event of an accident or injury, victims should consult with an experienced advocate as soon as possible. An immediate and thorough investigation can determine the cause of the accident, identify responsible individuals or entities, and help to preserve evidence in your case. Families of electrocution victims, or those who suffer pool-related accidents may be entitled to significant compensation, including pain and suffering, medical costs, and other personal losses related to the accident.

Call 1-800-561-7777 for a free and confidential consultation with Freeman Injury Law.

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