New York Drowning Accident Attorneys
Don’t Be a Victim Twice — Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462)
Drowning accidents are among the most tragic and preventable injuries affecting families in New York. In the United States, drowning is the fourth leading cause of unintentional death and ranks as the second leading cause of accidental death for children under 15. Many drowning incidents in NYC happen due to negligence, recklessness, or inadequate supervision — especially in New York pools, hotels, apartment complexes, waterparks, and public facilities.
If you or a loved one has suffered a drowning injury or near-drowning accident in New York or experienced the heartbreaking loss of someone due to another party’s carelessness, you may be entitled to significant compensation. At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our experienced New York drowning accident lawyers are dedicated to helping victims pursue justice by holding negligent parties accountable.
Common Causes of Drowning and Near-Drowning in New York
Drowning often occurs quickly and silently, even in shallow water. Some of the most common causes of drowning accidents in NYC include:
- Lack of proper supervision by lifeguards, pool staff, or guardians
- Broken or missing safety fences, pool gates, or alarm systems
- Slippery or hazardous pool decks and surfaces
- Defective or poorly maintained pool equipment, including drains, ladders, and diving boards
- Boating accidents caused by intoxication, speeding, or operator negligence
- Absence of clear warning signs, pool rules, and depth markers
Children are especially vulnerable. Under New York’s attractive nuisance doctrine, property owners can be held liable if a child is injured by an unsecured pool—even if the child was trespassing.
Where Do Drowning Accidents Happen in New York?
Drowning and near-drowning incidents occur in many places around New York, including:
- Private backyard pools and apartment complex swimming pools
- Hotels, resorts, and short-term rentals
- Public and municipal pools operated by NYC
- Schools, daycare centers, gyms, and recreational facilities
- Lakes, rivers, harbors, and coastal waters used for boating and water sports
Property owners, managers, lifeguard companies, and contractors have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions. Failure to meet these obligations may result in premises liability and wrongful death claims.
Injuries Resulting from Near-Drowning in New York
Survivors of near-drowning accidents often face serious long-term health challenges, such as:
- Permanent brain damage caused by oxygen deprivation (hypoxia)
- Spinal cord injuries, paralysis, or reduced motor function
- Coma or persistent vegetative state
- Cognitive and physical disabilities requiring lifelong care
These injuries often lead to extensive medical treatment, costly rehabilitation, and 24/7 care needs, placing immense emotional and financial stress on families.
Who Is Liable for Drowning Accidents in New York?
Liability in drowning accident cases can extend to multiple parties, including:
- Property owners and managers for unsafe pool conditions or lack of security
- Lifeguard companies or individual lifeguards for negligent supervision
- Municipal entities such as NYC Parks Department or public schools
- Product manufacturers responsible for defective pool components
- Maintenance and inspection contractors failing to address hazards
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we conduct thorough investigations to identify all responsible parties and preserve crucial evidence promptly.
Filing a Drowning Injury or Wrongful Death Claim in New York
If a drowning accident results in death, eligible family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages for:
- Medical bills and ongoing care expenses
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost financial support and future earnings
- Pain and suffering endured by the victim
- Loss of companionship and emotional distress
Strict legal deadlines apply, especially when a public entity such as a city pool or school is involved. Contacting an experienced New York drowning accident attorney promptly is critical to protect your legal rights.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP for Your New York Drowning Accident Case?
Our New York personal injury attorneys offer:
- Decades of experience handling complex drowning accident and wrongful death claims
- Proven record of successful verdicts and multi-million dollar settlements in premises liability cases
- Personalized, client-centered legal representation with direct attorney communication
- Access to top medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and aquatic safety consultants
- Compassionate support through every step of your case — no settlement is final unless it fully compensates you
- Bilingual services for diverse New York communities
- Recognition as top-rated, award-winning lawyers by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers
We fight aggressively to ensure you receive every dollar you deserve.
Don’t Be a Victim Twice — Contact Greenstein & Pittari, LLP Today
Time is critical after a drowning or near-drowning accident in New York. Whether your claim involves private property or government-run facilities, acting quickly helps preserve evidence and meet strict filing deadlines.
Call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP now at 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) or reach out online for a free, confidential consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win your case.