Las Vegas Drowning Accident Attorney

Common Causes of Drowning Accidents

Most drowning accidents in Las Vegas are preventable. Whether they occur in a hotel pool, private residence, or public facility, these incidents often trace back to negligence or unsafe conditions that could have been corrected with proper care.

Some of the most common causes of drowning accidents in Las Vegas include: 

• Lack of Supervision: One of the most common causes of drowning is inadequate supervision, especially in pools located at hotels, resorts, or apartment complexes. Many Las Vegas pools rely on lifeguards or trained staff to monitor swimmers. When lifeguards are absent, distracted, or poorly trained, a drowning can happen in seconds. Children and non-swimmers are particularly at risk when no one is watching closely.
• Broken or Missing Barriers: Nevada law and Clark County regulations require fencing and self-latching gates around pools to prevent unsupervised access. When these barriers are missing, broken, or improperly installed, young children can easily enter pool areas, often with tragic results. Property owners who fail to maintain these safety features can be held legally responsible for any resulting injuries or deaths.
• Defective Pool Equipment: Faulty pool equipment is another leading cause of drowning and near-drowning injuries. Defective drains or filtration systems can create powerful suction forces that trap swimmers underwater. These dangerous entrapment incidents have led to numerous injuries nationwide, prompting federal safety regulations under the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Safety Act. A Las Vegas drowning accident attorney can investigate whether equipment defects or violations of safety standards contributed to the incident.
• Unsafe Pool Decks and Surfaces: Slippery or uneven pool decks increase the risk of falls and head injuries, which can lead to unconsciousness and drowning. Resorts and apartment complexes are required to keep these areas clean, slip-resistant, and properly maintained. Failure to do so may constitute negligence under Nevada premises liability law.
• Lack of Warning Signs or Safety Equipment: Hotels, resorts, and public pools must post clear signage indicating pool depth, “No Diving” warnings, and other safety information. They must also provide flotation devices, life rings, and other emergency equipment. When these safety measures are missing, swimmers may be unaware of hazards or unable to get help quickly during an emergency.
• Inadequate Training or Staffing: Even when lifeguards are present, inadequate training can make them ineffective in recognizing distress or responding to emergencies. Employers who cut corners on safety training or fail to staff pools appropriately may be liable if their negligence leads to injury or death.
• Alcohol and Impairment: Las Vegas’s resort atmosphere often involves alcohol consumption, which can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Pool parties, dayclubs, and hotel events can become dangerous when alcohol use is combined with inadequate supervision or a lack of safety enforcement. Property owners and event organizers have a duty to manage these risks responsibly.

A knowledgeable Las Vegas drowning accident lawyer can help determine exactly what went wrong and who is legally responsible. By investigating pool safety protocols, staff training records, and maintenance logs, an attorney can uncover evidence of negligence and fight for accountability on behalf of the victim or their family.

Get the Help You Need from a Compassionate Drowning Accident Lawyer in Las Vegas

If someone you love drowned due to unsafe conditions or property owner negligence, Cohan PLLC is here to provide the compassionate legal support you need during this incredibly difficult time. We understand how difficult it is to for the families left behind, and we are committed to holding negligent property owners accountable. Our Las Vegas drowning lawyer has years of experience and a proven track record of success. He knows how insurance companies try to fight these claims because he has worked on the other side—and he knows what it takes to get the justice you and your family deserve. 

Review your legal options with us in a free consultation. Call (702) 623-3579 to talk to a swimming pool accident lawyer in Las Vegas today.