Elderly Woman Dies in Hot Tub Drowning

Apr 25,2017

An elderly woman died in a hot tub drowning in Palm Desert Saturday morning. The woman was found unconscious in the hot tub in the 500 block of Tomahawk Drive around 9 a.m. Firefighters responded to the scene, but they determined she had already passed away. The victim’s identity has not been released yet. The incident is under investigation.

Surprisingly, a person drowns nearly everyday in the U.S. in a bathtub, hot tub or spa. Western states report especially high instances of these drownings. In fact, California residents are three times more likely to drown in a tub than are New York residents.

Hot Tub Drowning Cases Often Involve Alcohol

Experts vary in their explanations of tub drownings. However, most agree that alcohol often plays a role. According to Jonathan Howland, an epidemiologist at Boston University and an expert on drowning, alcohol and hot tubs can be a deadly mix. Heat from the hot tub and alcohol consumption dilates the blood vessels, causing a drop in blood pressure. People can then lose consciousness and slip under the water.

Who is at Risk for Tub Drownings?

Between 1999 and 2003, 1,676 people drowned in a tub in the U.S. And while infants, children and the elderly are at risk, the majority of victims are between age 5 and 64.

How can You Avoid a Hot Tub Drowning?

Because of the dangers associated with drinking in hot tubs, it’s much safer to refrain from consuming alcohol when using a hot tub. You should also try to have someone either in the hot tub with you or close enough to quickly assist you if something goes wrong.

“Please keep yourself and your children safe by practicing safe habits in hot tubs, bath tubs and pools,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.