Invisible germs responsible for causing recreational waterborne illnesses may lurk in the water.

With summer months around the corner, temperatures are rising across the United States. Hotter temperatures mean summer activities will begin, such as taking fun trips with the family or looking for somewhere to cool off. Kids will be out of school, and trips to the pool or waterpark will be on the agenda. 

Although splashing and swimming are efficient ways to cool off during the summer heat, exposing oneself to water shared by others carries risks associated with dangerous germs. That is why those in charge of waterparks and swimming facilities must ensure that the water stays safely sanitary for those who use them. Cleanliness should not be optional, especially when the health and well-being of people are at stake.  

Horrible results may occur when a recreational facility, such as a waterpark, fails to follow the appropriate standard of care in providing clean swimming water for its patrons. Waterborne illnesses are no joke, and the results of such illnesses may be painful and tragic. Several well-known recreational waterborne illnesses (RWIs), such as the ones listed below, may inflict harm upon innocent victims who are exposed to dangerously unclean swimming environments.

• Escherichia coli (E. coli);
• Norovirus; and
• Legionellosis (Legionnaire's Disease).

In severe cases, death may occur as a result of an infection, leading to a wrongful death claim. Regardless, the suffering and associated healthcare costs that may arise as a result of falling ill with an RWI may support a viable personal injury claim, especially if anyone in addition to yourself or a loved one has been infected. The issues will be whether those responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the water failed to follow the appropriate standard of care, and if that failure caused your illness. 

If you or a loved one has been infected with an RWI following a trip to a recreational facility such as a waterpark, you may need to speak with a personal injury attorney to explore your possible legal options. Feel free to contact Hobbs Law at 205-683-2892 and schedule a free consultation.