Florida Scuba Diving Accident and Injury Cases
Scuba
diving is a potentially hazardous sport that carries with it certain inherent
risks. Hundreds of U.S. citizens are injured in scuba diving accidents worldwide
and over 70 divers die annually as a result of their injuries. In order to
dive in the U.S., people must complete and pass a diving certification course.
Risks are discussed and safety issues are addressed during the course. Commercial
and recreational SCUBA diving accidents usually occur because of poor judgment,
improperly maintained equipment, inadequate training, or inadequate supervision.
Fortunately, most commercial and recreational diving accidents
are preventable. The most dangerous risk a scuba diver faces is decompression
sickness, also known as "the bends". This occurs when a diver returns
to the surface too quickly. While diving, pressure underwater causes nitrogen
from the air the diver is breathing to dissolve in the body. Nitrogen bubbles,
which form in the blood stream, can cause a variety of problems. Minor injuries
may include joint pain as well as skin problems. In more serious cases, paralysis,
blindness, brain injuries, and even death may result.
Divers are routinely required to sign liability waivers and releases from the certifying agent, dive resort, boat owner and operator, and anyone related to the dive. Most courts have upheld these releases reasoning that since diving is a voluntary sport, involving risk, that the diver freely waives the right to sue the parties named in the release. However, not all courts uphold these releases as there may be negligence that makes the release inapplicable in certain cases.
Types & Causes of Scuba Diving Accidents & Injuries
These are just a partial list of the more common types of scuba diving accidents
and injuries:
How To Contact Cohen & Juda About Your Case: If you or someone you know have been in a commercial or recreational scuba diving accident or related injury in the state of Florida, simply complete the Case Information Form below. We will review the information and promptly respond to your request.
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