Baton Rouge

Drowning Accident Attorney

Compassionate Legal Help When Tragedy Strikes 

At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we know that a drowning accident changes everything in an instant. Whether you've survived a near-drowning yourself or are grieving the loss of a loved one, you deserve answers, accountability, and support. Our Baton Rouge drowning accident attorneys are here to stand by your side, provide clarity about your legal options, and help you take the next steps forward.

To speak with one of our compassionate and experienced lawyers, call (225) 209-9943 or contact us online. Your consultation is completely free. 

Common Causes of Swimming Pool Accidents

Tragically, many drowning incidents are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:

• Lack of fencing or proper barriers
• Broken or missing pool gates and latches
• Lack of lifeguards/professional supervision, especially for children
• Slippery pool decks and unsafe surfaces
• Malfunctioning drains or pool equipment
• Inadequate warning signs around deep or unsafe areas

Understanding what caused the accident is key to determining liability. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, our Baton Rogue swimming pool accident lawyers investigate every detail to find out what went wrong and who was responsible. You deserve justice, and our team is here to help you fight for accountability. 

Who Is Liable When Someone Drowns? 

Drowning accidents often happen because someone failed to take proper precautions. In Louisiana, property owners—especially those with swimming pools—have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe. That includes installing barriers, gates, and pool covers required by law. When a homeowner, landlord, hotel, or business fails to follow these safety rules, and someone is injured or dies as a result, they can and should be held liable.

Some examples of potentially liable parties in drowning cases include:

• Homeowners who fail to install fences or lockable gates around pools.
• Apartment complexes or condo associations that don't maintain safe pool areas or fail to supervise.
• Hotels or resorts with malfunctioning or poorly designed pool equipment.
• Schools, camps, or daycares that fail to provide proper supervision during swim time.
• Pool maintenance companies that leave behind dangerous conditions.

If someone's negligence caused your loss, we are here to help you pursue justice. By filing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit, you can not only recover fair compensation for the undue financial and emotional burdens you have suffered but also make sure that similar incidents don't occur again in the future.

How Common Are Swimming Pool Accidents in Baton Rouge?

Louisiana has one of the highest drowning rates in the country—especially for children under 14. Baton Rouge, with its hot summers and abundant residential and community pools, sees its share of tragic incidents each year. In many cases, these accidents occur in private backyard settings or public swimming pools, often where safety features were missing or professional supervision was lacking.

According to the Louisiana Department of Health and the CDC:

• Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death among children aged 1 to 4.
• Most child drownings occur in residential pools.
• Many non-fatal drownings result in serious brain injuries and long-term disabilities.

These statistics are not just numbers. They represent lives that were forever changed or lost far too soon. At Clayton, Frugé & Ward, we understand the importance of fighting for justice on behalf of children and families who have suffered devastating drowning accidents due to the negligence of others. 

What to Do After a Swimming Pool Accident

In the chaos and heartbreak that follows a drowning or near-drowning, it can be difficult to know what to do next. Here are some steps that can help protect your rights and begin the healing process:

• Seek Immediate Medical Help – Even near-drowning incidents can lead to brain damage or respiratory complications. Always seek prompt medical treatment after a drowning or near-drowning incident.
• Document the Scene – If possible, take photos of the pool area, fence (or lack thereof), and any hazardous conditions that may have been present. It's also important to request copies of your medical records. 
• Gather Witness Information – If possible, get the names and contact information of anyone who saw what happened or who may have witnessed any unsafe conditions that directly or indirectly led to the incident. 
• Report the Incident – Depending on the location, you may need to notify local authorities or property managers about the drowning or near-drowning. Make sure to request copies of all official incident reports. 
• Talk to an Experienced Attorney – Don’t try to navigate this alone. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, including your potential right to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit against the liable party or parties. 

How Our Drowning Accident Lawyers in Baton Rogue Can Help

Right now, you may be dealing with immense grief, confusion, and possibly even anger. You may be struggling to cope with exorbitant medical bills and other financial challenges. You shouldn't have to carry the legal burden on top of all this. 

Our firm is here to:

• Investigate what caused the accident and who is liable
• Handle all communication with insurance companies and opposing parties
• Help you secure compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, pain and suffering, and more
• Provide compassionate, personalized support every step of the way

We don’t get paid unless we win your case. Our goal is to help you find answers, accountability, and peace of mind. Reach out to us today to get started.

You don’t have to go through this alone. Our team is here to listen, support you, and fight for the justice your loved one deserves. Call us today for a free, confidential consultation. We’re ready to help you take the next step, whenever you’re ready.

Call (225) 209-9943 or submit a secure online form to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Baton Rouge Drowning Accident FAQ

Can I File a Claim If My Child Drowned in Someone Else’s Pool?

Yes, if the property owner failed to follow safety laws or provide proper supervision, they may be held liable under Louisiana premises liability laws.

What If the Drowning Happened at a Public or Hotel Pool?

You may still have a case. Public and commercial pool operators must meet strict safety standards. If they didn’t, and someone was hurt or killed, they can be sued for damages. 

What If the Drowning Was Considered an “Accident”?

Even if an incident is labeled an “accident,” someone may still be legally responsible. Drowning is often preventable with proper safeguards. We can help you determine if negligence played a role.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for most personal injury and wrongful death claims is two years from the date of the accident if the incident occurred on or after July 1, 2024. If it happened before this date, you have just one year (in most cases) to sue for damages. It’s important to act quickly so that you don't lose your right to seek justice after a swimming pool or drowning accident in Baton Rogue.