What to Do After a Slip & Fall Accident at a Pool

The sound of splashing water, laughter echoing across the pool deck, and the warmth of the sun. These are the ingredients for a perfect summer day. They’re also the conditions for a fall that can change the day in a split second.

One misstep on a slick tile, a hidden puddle, or a missing handrail, and you find yourself on the ground. Pain radiates through your body, and confusion clouds your mind as someone calls 911.

This scenario is more common than you might think. Every year, thousands of people — children, parents, and grandparents — suffer serious injuries caused by slip and fall accidents around pools.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths globally, resulting in more than 684,000 fatalities each year, with substantial numbers of non-fatal injuries affecting both children and adults. These accidents can lead to broken bones, head injuries, spinal damage, and other long-term health issues.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a poolside fall, you may be dealing with pain, confusion, and stress. You are not alone. But property owners and insurance companies often act quickly to limit their liability, so your next steps are critical.

This guide outlines important steps to take after a slip and fall near a pool, your legal rights, and how to protect yourself going forward.

Why Do Poolside Falls Happen? The Hidden Dangers 

First, what are the prime conditions for a slip and fall event poolside?

Let’s start with this perspective shift: it’s easy to blame yourself for a fall. But most poolside accidents are preventable. Property owners are supposed to keep these areas safe, yet hazards are everywhere. Many common causes for slip and fall accidents at pools include:

• Slippery or uneven pool decks
• Algae or mold that makes surfaces slick
• Broken or missing handrails
• Dim lighting that hides puddles
• No “wet floor” warnings
• Poor drainage creates slick spots
• Cracked or loose tiles

The resulting injuries can be serious: concussions, broken bones, spinal injuries, deep cuts, dislocated shoulders, and even near-drowning if you hit your head and lose consciousness. For children and seniors, the risks are even higher.

Understanding what causes these falls can help you spot unsafe conditions and support your legal claim.

The Critical Steps After a Poolside Fall

Those first moments after a fall can feel chaotic. But if you’re equipped with clarity on your rights and get your immediate actions correct, you can instantly improve your recovery path. Here’s what to do, step by step:

• Get to safety. If you can move, get away from slippery patches or sharp edges. If you’re dizzy or in pain, stay put and call for help.
• Check yourself for injuries. Poolside falls can cause anything from bruises to broken bones or head injuries. And don’t shrug off symptoms — sometimes, the most serious injuries are invisible at first.
• Call 911 if needed. Emergency responders will not only treat you, but also create an official incident report. This step is crucial if you choose to pursue a claim.
• Report the incident. Tell the property owner, manager, or lifeguard what happened and ask for a written report. This creates a record that can’t be ignored.
• Gather witness names and contact info. Witnesses and staff can provide statements later, so jot down their details now.
• Take photos and save evidence. Take pictures or video of the scene — wet spots, broken tiles, missing warning signs, and your injuries. Keep your shoes and clothing; they might prove what caused your fall.
• See a doctor, even if you feel “okay.” Some injuries, like concussions or internal damage, don’t show up right away. Follow all medical advice and document your recovery in a journal.
• Stay off social media. Even a simple post about your accident can be twisted by insurance companies to undermine your case.
• Talk to a slip & fall lawyer. The right attorney will know how to preserve evidence, deal with insurance, and protect your rights from day one.

Don’t Let These Mistakes Hurt Your Case

After a fall, it’s easy to make decisions that could hurt your health or your legal rights. Common (and easily avoidable) mistakes include:

• Delaying medical care. Some injuries hide at first. Waiting to see a doctor can worsen your condition and make it harder to prove your case.
• Throwing away damaged items. Wet or torn shoes and clothing can be powerful evidence — don’t toss them just yet!
• Talking to insurance before a lawyer. Adjusters want to pay as little as possible. Never give a statement or accept a settlement without legal advice.

Avoiding these mistakes can protect your health, strengthen your case, and help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If a property owner, manager, or maintenance company failed to keep the pool area safe, and their negligence caused your fall and injury, then you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills (past and future), lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, long-term or permanent disability, and any out-of-pocket expenses related to your recovery.

How Nevada and California Laws Affect Your Claim

Both Nevada and California require property owners to keep their premises safe for guests, especially around pools. But a few key rules about fault and compensation differ.

In Nevada, you can only recover compensation if you’re found to be 50% or less at fault for your accident. If you’re more than half responsible, you’re barred from any recovery.

California is more forgiving: even if you’re mostly at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your share of the blame. For example, if you’re 70% at fault, you can still claim 30% of your damages. An experienced attorney can help you navigate these differences and build a strong case under your state’s laws

An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate these rules and more to build a case tailored around your state’s laws.

Because You Deserve What’s Right, Contact Sam & Ash Injury Law

A slip and fall accident at a pool can turn your life upside down. At Sam & Ash Injury Law, we’ve helped clients recover life-changing results — including a $500,000 settlement for a traumatic brain injury after a resort pool fall — because we fight for What’s Right. We handle the insurance companies, take care of every detail, and put your needs first.

Call us today for a free consultation and let us help you get your life back on track.

Common Questions About Pool Slip & Fall Accidents

What if I fell at a friend’s house?

You can still file a claim, usually against your friend’s homeowner’s insurance. Remember that it’s not personal — your status as a guest does not and should not prevent you from seeking compensation.

Does it matter what shoes I was wearing?

Insurance companies may try to blame your footwear, but many factors can contribute to a fall. It’s best to let your lawyer handle this question.

What if I was drinking alcohol at the time?

Intoxication may reduce your compensation, but it doesn’t automatically block your claim. If the property owner was more at fault, you can still recover damages.

How much is my slip & fall claim worth?

It depends on your injuries, medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and your share of fault. Every case is unique — talk to an attorney for a personalized assessment.

How soon should I call a lawyer?

Immediately. Evidence can vanish quickly, and early legal guidance protects your rights.

If you’ve been hurt in a poolside slip and fall, don’t let confusion or insurance tactics keep you from getting What’s Right. Contact Sam & Ash Injury Law for a free, no-obligation consultation today.