Back to What We DoCHICAGO DROWNING LIABILITY ATTORNEYS
Fighting for families in times of need.
An estimated 3,500 people die of drowning each year across the United States. When those deaths are the result of someone else’s negligence, families can hold people and institutions accountable through wrongful death and premises liability lawsuits. Some of the most common cases involve pools that are poorly maintained, pools that are staffed with reckless or negligent lifeguards and private pools that homeowners never properly fenced. Survivors of drowning victims can also seek damages when someone else physically caused the drowning.
In 2018, Cavanagh Sorich Law Group obtained a settlement on behalf of a woman whose toddler daughter was submerged underwater for 40 to 50 seconds during a swimming lesson at a pool in suburban Chicago. The firm in 2017 filed a lawsuit against the YMCA in Niles, Ill., after a man nearly drowned in the facility’s pool. He was swimming laps when he suffered a heart attack and went underwater for more than five minutes. Two nearby lifeguards were chatting and failed to notice the situation. The man survived, but sustained serious brain injuries because the YMCA’s lifeguards failed to scan the pool and be alert. READ MORE
According to the National Safety Council, 10 people die each day from drowning in the U.S., not including boating accidents. Drowning remains a leading cause of death for children, according to the American Red Cross. And boys under 15 die from drowning at twice the rate of girls.
About Cavanagh Sorich Law Group
Cavanagh Sorich Law Group has obtained more than $650 million in verdicts and settlements in Illinois and across the United States. Our veteran trial attorneys are aggressive advocates who practice every facet of personal injury law and take on cases of all sizes. We operate on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win. At Cavanagh Sorich Law Group, we pride ourselves on attentive customer service and being there for families in their times of need. Our well respected, award-winning attorneys are available 24/7 for your questions and concerns. To schedule a free case evaluation, call 312-425-1900.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I was involved in a car accident?
Call the police immediately and file a police report. Even if the damage was minor, it is essential to document what happened with a law enforcement agency. Take photos at the scene.
Never admit fault. Your testimony could be used against you at a later date. While you are required to speak to police, there is no obligation to talk to another person’s attorney or insurance company. Avoid providing written or oral statements.
Report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible — but don’t admit fault. Many insurance companies have rules requiring policyholders to report crashes within a certain timeframe. Check your policy to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
Visit a doctor as soon as possible after the crash. Whether you’re filing an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit, it is imperative that a medical professional documents your injuries.
Hire an attorney. Cavanagh Sorich Law Group’s team of veteran trial attorneys will help you obtain maximum benefits through meticulous research, proven strategy and expert testimony.
Can I still receive compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Illinois has comparative negligence laws, which allow injured parties to have some degree of fault in an accident and still recover reduced damages. The amount of money recovered may be proportional to the degree to which a person is at fault. Insurance companies make determinations following interviews with witnesses and involved parties and a thorough review of the accident report.
How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit?
Under Illinois law, people have two years from the date of an accident to file a lawsuit in civil court. That timeframe drops to one year if the claim is against a municipal government, such as a city or county.