Legionnaires’ Disease in Pools and Spas

Pools and spas are meant to be places of relaxation and enjoyment, but when improperly maintained, they can become breeding grounds for the harmful—and potentially deadly—Legionella bacteria. This dangerous pathogen causes Legionnaires’ disease, a severe type of pneumonia that can lead to long-term health complications or oftentimes even death. If you or a loved one has contracted Legionnaires’ disease after visiting a pool, spa, or similar facility, you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering. At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, our experienced Miami Legionnaires’ Disease lawyers are here to help you understand your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve.

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia that typically develops within two to ten days of exposure to contaminated water. Symptoms can escalate quickly and require prompt medical attention. Common signs of Legionnaires’ disease include:

• High Fever: A sudden onset of fever, often reaching 104°F or higher.
• Severe Cough: A persistent cough that may produce mucus or blood.
• Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, even while at rest.
• Muscle Aches: Widespread pain or stiffness in the muscles.
• Chills: Shaking chills accompanied by cold sweats.
• Headache and Fatigue: Symptoms resembling the flu, including a headache, confusion, or extreme tiredness.
• Nausea, Vomiting, or Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal symptoms may also accompany respiratory issues.

If you experience any of these symptoms after visiting a pool or spa, seek immediate medical care. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for a full recovery. Be sure to inform your doctor of any potential exposure to contaminated water, as this information can aid in diagnosing Legionnaires’ disease.

Legionnaires’ disease is contracted by inhaling water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria. Pools, hot tubs, and spas provide the perfect conditions for this bacteria to thrive, especially when the water is not properly cleaned, treated, or filtered. Common sources of Legionella contamination in pools and spas include:

• Inadequate Water Treatment: Failing to maintain proper chlorine or bromine levels allows bacteria to grow.
• Poor Filtration Systems: Insufficient filtration can result in stagnant water, a breeding ground for Legionella.
• Improper Maintenance: Regular cleaning and inspections are essential to prevent bacteria buildup in pipes, jets, and other water systems.
• High Water Temperatures: Warm water in hot tubs and spas creates an ideal environment for Legionella bacteria to multiply.

When operators of pools and spas neglect these responsibilities, patrons may be exposed to harmful bacteria, putting their health at serious risk.

Owners and operators of pools and spas have a legal duty to ensure their facilities are safe for public use. When they fail to meet industry safety standards, they may be held liable for damages. Potentially liable parties can include:

• Hotels and Resorts: If the pool or spa at a hotel or resort is improperly maintained, the property owner or management may be responsible.
• Recreational Facilities: Public pools, fitness centers, and water parks must adhere to strict health and safety regulations to protect visitors.
• Apartment Complexes: Landlords and property managers are responsible for maintaining safe conditions in shared facilities like pools and hot tubs.
• Maintenance Contractors: Third-party companies hired to clean and maintain water systems may be liable if their negligence contributed to contamination.

Proving liability often requires demonstrating that the responsible party failed to meet their duty of care, leading to unsafe water conditions. Miami Legionnaires’ Disease attorneys at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada can help investigate your case and identify all liable parties responsible for your unfortunate injuries.

Victims of Legionnaires’ disease caused by unsafe pools and spas may be entitled to compensation for their damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Costs for hospitalization, medications, follow-up care, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost while recovering from the illness.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress, past and future, caused by the disease.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In cases of fatal exposure, surviving family members may seek damages for their loss.

At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we understand the devastating impact Legionnaires’ disease can have on your life. Our Miami Legionnaires’ Disease attorneys are committed to helping you recover the financial compensation you need to move forward.

No one should suffer the consequences of Legionnaires’ disease because of someone else’s negligence. If you or a loved one has been exposed to Legionella bacteria in a pool or spa, Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada is here to help. Our dedicated Miami Legionnaires’ Disease lawyers will work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the justice you deserve. To learn more and schedule your free consultation, call us at (305) 448-8585 or connect with our staff by completing our secure online contact form. There are no legal fees unless and until there is a financial recovery for you.