I started diving off of starting blocks when I was eight years old. I am now 51, and train at the Y, almost always alone, as there is no Masters program in the county where I live, or in any of the immediately adjacent counties. (There are several age group programs.) I want to work on my starts, but none of the Y's where I swim will let me use the blocks - saying that a national Y policy prohibits anyone from using the blocks unless a team/club coach is on the deck.
I have never heard of anyone suing a YMCA because of an accident on a starting block.
Yes, perhaps a coach would be valuable to me in this regard, but I'm not looking for a coach - I need and want a cooperative facility. The age groups' program schedules are not conducive to my schedule, and besides, the age group coaches already have enough on their hands during those times with lanes full of kids working their programs. I also am not excited about having to dodge those kids to do the work I need to do.
Anyone find a way to conquer this litigation-fear-induced insanity yet? Thank you.
Parents
Former Member
I missed your comments on the true facts surrounding the "coffee" case. Regardless, I did not intend to hijack this thread into non-aquatic topics, so this will be my last comment.
Old dog, you state: "I'm sure they don't hire hot shot trial lawyers who stand to gain millions for their victories..." is at least partially correct. Defense counsel get paid hourly, victory or loss. Wealthy defendants unleash masses of hourly counsel in efforts to crush plaintiffs, regardless of merit. Hourly rates here in LA for experienced, well qualified defense counsel can range from $275 to $800/hr.
"Something has to change?" What exactly? Do we need to make it more difficult for victims to be compensated for injuries suffered to protect corporate profits and malfeasance? I guess reasonable people can disagree.
carl
I missed your comments on the true facts surrounding the "coffee" case. Regardless, I did not intend to hijack this thread into non-aquatic topics, so this will be my last comment.
Old dog, you state: "I'm sure they don't hire hot shot trial lawyers who stand to gain millions for their victories..." is at least partially correct. Defense counsel get paid hourly, victory or loss. Wealthy defendants unleash masses of hourly counsel in efforts to crush plaintiffs, regardless of merit. Hourly rates here in LA for experienced, well qualified defense counsel can range from $275 to $800/hr.
"Something has to change?" What exactly? Do we need to make it more difficult for victims to be compensated for injuries suffered to protect corporate profits and malfeasance? I guess reasonable people can disagree.
carl
