A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded at Senses Park in Kissimmee, Florida, when a 5-year-old child with autism drowned after gaining access to a nearby retention pond. Surveillance footage later revealed a critical safety flaw in the park’s fencing, raising concerns about whether proper precautions were in place to prevent such a devastating incident.
The young boy, described by authorities as having non-verbal autism, managed to slip through an area of the fence that was either improperly secured or missing altogether. Surveillance footage obtained by investigators confirmed that the barrier meant to keep children away from the hazardous area was insufficient in its design and maintenance. This tragic event underscores the dire consequences of failing to uphold adequate pool and water safety standards.
Florida leads the nation in child drowning deaths, with drowning being the number one cause of accidental death among children under the age of four. Given this alarming statistic, it is essential that public parks, recreational facilities, and property owners implement stringent safety measures to ensure that all children, particularly those with special needs, are protected from preventable hazards.
In cases like this, property owners—including municipalities and park management—can be held liable if negligence in safety precautions contributed to the drowning incident. Florida law mandates that property owners must take reasonable steps to secure hazardous areas, maintain fencing, and ensure that safety measures comply with regulations designed to prevent tragic accidents.
Attorney Michael Haggard, Esq., an advocate for drowning victims and their families, explains the legal implications of such incidents:
“This devastating case is a stark reminder that proper safety barriers and vigilant maintenance are absolutely essential in preventing tragedies like this. Public spaces, especially those catering to children and families, have a responsibility to ensure that all safety measures are enforced and regularly inspected. When these basic protections fail, lives are at risk, and property owners must be held accountable.”
For families who have lost a loved one in a drowning incident in Florida caused by negligent safety measures, legal options may be available. Pursuing a premises liability claim can help hold responsible parties accountable and push for necessary changes to prevent further tragedies.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a drowning accident, seeking experienced legal representation is crucial in determining whether negligence played a role. Attorney Michael Haggard, Esq. specializes in pool and water-related injury cases, advocating for the rights of victims and their families.
Contact Michael Haggard, Esq. today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options and take the first step toward seeking justice and ensuring that necessary safety reforms are implemented to protect future generations.
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