Drowning Accident Lawyer – Houston, TX

On average, in the United States, eleven people die by drowning every single day. Twenty-two more experience a non-fatal drowning accident. What’s more, drowning is the leading cause of death for children aged one through four. This makes drowning accidents a significant public health issue. This is also where the expertise of a drowning accident attorney comes in. So, what causes drowning accidents? The lead cause is a lack of proper supervision, especially for younger children, who most often drown in swimming pools. Other issues include missing or ineffective fences around water, especially pools, consumption of alcohol or drugs, and defective products. The most common liability for drowning is that faced by a property owner who does not properly fence pools or secure pool gates. In these cases, you need a competent, experienced drowning accident lawyer. If you or a loved one was involved in a drowning accident that might be somebody else’s fault, contact Morrow & Sheppard for a free consultation. A Houston drowning accident lawyer can help determine liability and fight for just compensation.

Common Types of Drowning Accidents

There are a number of types of drowning accidents. People of different ages are at risk of different types of incidents, but all of them can result in fatalities or serious health issues. Understanding the worth of a drowning accident case and the process of handling drowning accident claims is crucial for seeking appropriate legal representation.

Swimming Pool Accidents

Pool accidents happen when somebody drowns in a municipal, residential, or resort swimming pool. Younger children are most at risk; some of these accidents occur even though the child is not supposed to be in or near the pool. In the case of a pool accident, the pool owner may be liable if they provide insufficient supervision or, most often, if they don’t take reasonable precautions to keep children and trespassers out of the pool. In both Texas and Louisiana, residential swimming pools are considered attractive nuisances. An attractive nuisance is any feature on a property that might attract children onto the land and pose a risk to their safety. Swimming pools are not attractive nuisances in all states (for example, they are not in Indiana). This requires landowners to keep children away from the feature, which with pools means suitable fencing and a closed gate whenever the pool is not in use. A swimming pool owner must ensure these safety measures are in place to prevent potential harm to young children. In municipal and resort pools, insufficient supervision can happen if the lifeguards are not doing their job, making them or the property responsible.

Spa Accidents

Yes, people do drown in spas. One issue that can happen is hair getting stuck in the pool vents. Drowning accidents also happen when somebody spends extended time in a spa or hot tub and falls asleep or passes out. Securing long hair while using a spa and limiting the amount of time spent in the water can reduce the risk of an accident. A near-drowning incident can result in severe injuries and significant medical expenses. Young children should be kept out of the spa and hot tub areas. Insufficient supervision can result in somebody passing out or getting stuck and not being rescued in time.

Boating Accidents

People can also drown after falling out of a boat. In fact, people have drowned after falling overboard from cruise ships of all sizes. Alcohol is often involved in boating accidents, and getting drunk on a boat is not recommended. If you are in a small boat, always wear a life jacket. Larger boats must have life jackets available and be functional, sufficient for the number of passengers, and easy to access. Another common cause of accidents includes standing up in small boats before proper docking; only people who know what they are doing should dock boats.

Water Park Accidents

Poorly designed water slides may also cause severe accidents—many of these do not involve drownings (for example, the infamous Verrückt incident involved a child striking a metal pole). However, people can drown at the bottom of slides, which often have deep water. Water parks also involve the same risks as swimming pools and require the proper supervision of children, particularly to prevent a swimming pool accident.

Swimming pool accidents are common and can have devastating consequences, often due to the negligence of property owners, management companies, or product manufacturers.

Beach Accidents

Tourists are the most at risk for accidental drownings off beaches because they don’t know the area and are trying to relax. Accidents can also happen when a guide gives incorrect information, or tourists ignore a safety flag and swim from an unattended beach. Rip currents are a particular hazard in some parts of the world. Never swim from a red-flagged beach, and avoid swimming from beaches that do not have a lifeguard present. Always follow the lifeguard’s directions.

Bathtub Accidents

Bathtub drownings typically happen when infants under one-year-old are left unattended and can also affect other children under five. Adult drownings are typically the result of alcohol, drug use, or a seizure disorder. Elderly people can also experience falls. It is important to use traction stickers in the tub and non-slip padded mats around the bathtub to reduce the risk of slips and falls. In some cases, liability may fall on the person or their parents. However, the property owner often faces some liability. A guide who gives incorrect safety instructions can also be liable.

Some drowning incidents are fatal, but even a non-fatal drowning can result in long-term issues. The following injuries and incidents can cause liability and make you eligible for damages.

Wrongful death claim. If a family member drowns, you may have a wrongful death case against the property owner or another. This claim can help recover damages for economic and noneconomic losses due to negligence.
Spinal cord injuries. These can happen if somebody dives into water that is too shallow or otherwise unsuitable. Improper signage can be a factor here.
Organ damage. Drowning can cause damage to the brain and/or multiple organs from a lack of oxygen. These can result in long-term disability.
Hypothermia. Falling into cold water can cause hypothermia, where the body temperature drops too low. This can lead to frostbite or gangrene, which can cause limb loss.
Infection. Non-fatal drowning can cause aspiration pneumonia, resulting in lung infection and potential long-term damage.
Psychological trauma. Non-fatal drowning can also result in mental health issues, such as PTSD or a long-term fear of water.

Drowning Accident Lawsuits and Settlements

Property owners are most likely to face liability after a drowning incident. However, pool operators or lifeguards, product manufacturers and distributors (for example, a defective life jacket), boat operators and owners, and their insurance companies may also face liability. Our law firm can investigate your personal injury case and gather evidence. A drowning accident lawyer can negotiate with insurers (who often agree to settle when lawyers become involved) and, if necessary, handle your case in court. Houston drowning accident cases often require specialized legal knowledge and resources. We have experienced Houston drowning accident attorneys who can help you hold people responsible. Texas drowning accident lawyers are dedicated to seeking justice and compensation for affected families.

Why Choose Us As Your Drowning Accident Lawyer

Our experienced Houston drowning accident attorneys have gained numerous settlements for our maritime and Jones Act clients. While we can’t guarantee anything, we have the resources needed to get you the highest possible settlement and appropriate compensation for your injury or the loss of your loved ones. We provide each client compassionate service, personal attention, and aggressive advocacy. Our Houston drowning accident lawyers offer a free consultation and provide legal assistance for individuals who have suffered preventable injuries in drowning accidents. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discuss the details of your case.

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Rod A.

Thank you so much Griselda for great service and helping me..through of the case..

Dray H.

From the very first consultation, I was struck by their professionalism and commitment. Chris and Daniel took the time to listen to my concerns, understand our situation, and outline a clear path forward. It was apparent that they all were not just going through the motions; they were genuinely invested in achieving the best outcome for my son as he suffered a lot from being hit by a car. Throughout the process, their hard work was evident. Your choice of legal representation can make a world of difference, and I am fortunate to have found a lawyer and Firm who embodies these qualities. Thank you once again for everything; your efforts will not be forgotten. If you need an honest law firm that's going to be transparent and help get the best results, call Morrow and Sheppard.

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They were professional and very helpful with everything. If had any questions they would be quick to respond and was able to help me understand it better on things during the whole case. Thank you so much and keep up the excellent work.

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I must recommend MS LLP for their superb services. Their team is very attentive and responsive in assisting at all times.

Cynthia D.

Griselda was so helpful and knowledgeable! She made the entire experience seamless and went the extra mile on our case. We are so happy we chose Morrow & Sheppard to represent us!

Michael J.

John Sheppard and Chris West did an outstanding job in representing me following a rear-end collision. Highly recommended!

Jeff S.

Nick and Laura are the best..They helped every step of the way.Can’t recommend them highly enough.Not only do they get results but they care and make you feel like family.

Cassandra M.

They were very professional and understanding. The have patience and do their job well. If I had to return I would with no hesitation

Juber M.

4 months agoI am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Nick Morrow end Laura on my case With the rest of his staff. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Laura end Nick would keep me up to date with the status of my case … More , They fought for me to get the best settlement possible.. I am happy with the outcome Thank you Nick and the staff Of MORROW END SHEPPARD LLP

Candace M.

Chris West is an excellent addition to the Morrow & Sheppard team. His skill set, dedication, and overall reliability he brings to the firm and clients are uncanny. You will not be disappointed.

Melis R.

I highly recommend the Morrow & Sheppard to anyone. They are an incredible group that did an outstanding job to make sure I got the highest settlement for my case. Attorney Daniel and his staff are all outstanding professionals with some serious case law knowledge and skill. His group went the extra mile for me and because of that, my life has forever changed. Thank you Attorney Daniel and everyone that’s a part of his firm that worked so hard. I really appreciate you!

D P.

I am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Daniel Sheppard and Chris on my case. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Daniel would keep me up to date with the status of my case and Chris would also ensure all my paper work was submitted in a timely manner. I am Very Happy with the Outcome! Thank you Daniel and Chris. I highly recommend their services and would not hesitate to use them again.

Nikki L.

Very strong and courageous law firm I recommend to anyone who has suffered a injury from companies who need to be held responsible for lack of safety and security, my family is set for life and with these lawyers never backing down and fighting for truth behind every case and seeking the best future for our family has given our family a second chance at being able to make it in life and holding companies accountable lifting burdens off our lives, very proud and beyond blessed to have had them fight the fight and have a tremendous outcome for our future. Along with a great and kind staff we HIGHLY recommend this law firm.

Marceline A.

I was a client for 2.5 years after a car accident in 2019 and represented by Patrick McGinnis. He was knowledgable, compassionate, and level headed.His assisting paralegal, Ramona Anaya, was reliable, knowledgable, and kind in all our interactions.They went above and beyond to help me navigate everything that unfolded after my car accident. They were able to secure a favorable settlement before trial.I’m very happy to have had Morrow&Sheppard Firm represent me.

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Professional and knowledgeable with years of experience.

Richard L.

I had a accident and I chose morrow&sheppard they was great from the start to the finish Chris was real informative and helpful was the whole process and got me a fair settlement they really care about there Clients if you in a car accident call them

Amanda W.

After a car accident last year I went to Morrow & Sheppard for assistance. Jose and Chris were exceptionally accommodating and handled my case with professionalism. They're primary concern was my well being and they went above and beyond to ensure I would receive the best settlement possible. A very efficient and dedicated team!

Susan L.

I've been in the legal field for a while now and not only do I know John Sheppard & Nick Morrow, I have attorney friends that have worked with them throughout the years. This is a great firm and great people that work at Morrow & Sheppard. I have been reading the reviews on here and it makes me happy to see that their clients think as highly of them as I do.

Dale S.

I was injured and my business closed down due to an accident in 2016. Daniel Sheppard became my greatest asset. He hired professional experts for their views and opinions as well as conducting numerous depositions. Daniel is hard working and no nonsense when handling your case. Daniel keeps you informed on what's going on and what to expect. I'm from Louisiana and my case was in Texas. Daniel Sheppard worked alone side my other attorney Yuri Beck, and the both of them did a fantastic job representing me and settling my case. Daniel Sheppard of Morrow & Sheppard in Texas and Yuri Beck of Hunter & Beck in Louisiana are my lawyers for LIFE.

Rosie E.

Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were the lead attorneys on my case to hold an apartment complex with inadequate security responsible for the death of my son. The two of them were focused and determined to represent me and my son's children with tenacity. As the case continued over time, it became apparent that we were not merely clients that were a means to a financial end to them but people who had experienced a life changing and devastating loss. They realized that as a result of our loss, there needed to be accountability that could only be obtained through legal actions. Throughout the legal process, Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were not only professional and transparent but also compassionate and empathetic as they lead us through the difficult and sometimes confusing legal maze. Every person in their office that was involved with our case exemplified an extension of the genuine concern that began with attorneys Morrow and Sheppard. I have and will continue to recommend this firm to individuals who find themselves in need of legal representation.

Don D.

The legal team at Morrow and Shepherd worked hard to help me win my case where a motorist who caused the accident changed her story and lied about the accident. A previous attorney kept telling me that I would probably have to pay some of the medical costs out of my own pocket.Daniel, my attorney, assured me that he would it is best to make sure this did not happen and that he would fight to get me the best compensation possible. He was true to his word.I'm happy with their work, happy with the compensation and would definitely use them again.The Legal Assistant, Chris, was always professional, friendly and polite and a pleasure to work with.A big thanks to the team!Don

Jeff N.

Nick and his group have helped where they can and are working hard to get a resolution to my injuries. I spoke with 4 different law firms prior to choosing Morrow & Sheppard LLP.ThanksJeff

Elizabeth Swanson V.

I was referred to Daniel Sheppard because of a car accident I had been in. I was very impressed with how he told me about the process of how things worked and the things to expect. He was very forth coming and always supportive. The experience was a positive one and ended on a great note! I highly recommend him.Elizabeth Varon

Christine E.

Before I engaged John Sheppard, I was concerned that I might lose my case. However, John came onboard, turned things around, and set me on a good course to win. He got up to speed quickly on the facts and determined exactly what we needed to do. He is great at strategy, filing discovery and other motions, and arguing before the court. I was extremely pleased with the outcome of my case. If you need legal help in a personal injury action, commercial law or whatever, hire him immediately! He is a pleasure to work with, will thoroughly explain all to you in a manner you can understand, and will get you the best possible outcome. A+++

BB C.

I was seriously injured and they represented me and I was so happy with the outcome and would recommend them to any others seeking professional lawyers. They also set me up with the best doctors. My son and I have now put this lawsuit behind us thanks to Morrow & Sheppard.

Stephen T.

Phenomenal lawyer. I can not heap enough praise on these guys,.

III 4.

Nick Morrow is a GREAT lawyer that really knows his job. He made me feel comfortable about hiring him to handle my case. He’s trustworthy and very compassionate about his work. His staff is awesome also, everyone was nice and friendly to me when I visited the office. The settlement I received exceeded my expectations, it was four times what I expected. I would highly recommend Morrow and Sheppard to anyone needing legal representation. Thanks again Nick!!

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