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A two-year-old girl is recovering in the hospital after being pulled unresponsive from a hotel pool in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday evening, according to WSVN.
Emergency responders from Fort Lauderdale Police and Fire Rescue were dispatched to the Sheraton Suites Fort Lauderdale at Cypress Creek, located at 555 NW 62nd St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, around 7:00 p.m. following reports of a near-drowning.
According to fire rescue officials, the child was discovered in the water and removed from the pool before first responders arrived. Bystanders performed CPR on the toddler until paramedics took over and continued life-saving efforts.
The girl was transported to Broward Health Medical Center, where medical professionals successfully revived her.
Authorities are now investigating the circumstances that led to the incident. Further details about how the girl ended up in the water have not yet been released.
When near-drowning occur at hotel pools, families often face overwhelming questions about accountability and safety. In a recent conversation, Florida attorney Michael Haggard shared valuable information about the responsibilities hotels have in protecting guests and the potential legal options available to victims of near-drowning or drowning incidents. His expertise highlights how negligence can play a role in such tragedies and what steps families can take to seek recourse.
Editor Darla Medina: What legal options might families have when a near-drowning happens at a hotel pool like this incident in Fort Lauderdale?
Attorney Michael Haggard: These situations are heartbreaking, and families often have more rights than they realize. Hotels have a responsibility to maintain safe environments, especially around pools. This includes proper fencing, clear signage, functioning safety equipment, and adequate supervision if lifeguards are provided. If a hotel fails to meet these standards, they could be held accountable for negligence.
Medina: What factors typically determine whether a hotel is found liable?
Haggard: Liability often hinges on whether the hotel followed safety regulations and took reasonable precautions to prevent accidents. For example, were there any barriers to prevent children from entering the pool area unsupervised? Was there a lack of warning signs or safety measures? If negligence can be proven, the family may have grounds for legal action to cover medical expenses, emotional distress, or other damages.
Medina: What advice would you give to families navigating these situations?
Haggard: First, focus on the child’s health and recovery. But once the immediate crisis is under control, consult an attorney experienced in these cases. They can review the details, determine if negligence played a role, and guide the family through the process of securing compensation if warranted. It’s also important to gather any evidence, such as photos of the pool area or witness statements, as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one has experienced a near-drowning or drowning incident at a hotel, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Holding responsible parties accountable can help prevent future tragedies and provide the support your family deserves. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options with experienced professionals by your side.
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