Bathtub Death: The Hidden Dangers and How to Protect Yourself

Bathtub deaths are among the most underrated household hazards that bring widespread and disastrous consequences. At Cloward Trial Lawyers, we value the gravity of such incidents on the families of Las Vegas, Nevada. Now, let’s discuss the risks, causes, and precautions of such tragedies and how we can help.

Bathtub Death: Understanding the Risks

Bathtubs are those places that seem so harmless yet pose the highest risk for serious injury or fatality. It can happen in a split second, especially when precautions are not taken.

bathtub death

Statistics on Bathtub Deaths in Las Vegas and the United States

The study, A Systematic Program to Reduce the Incidence and Severity of Bathtub and Shower Area Injuries, systematically analyzes patterns and scenarios associated with accidents in such areas. Therefore, it offers targeted interventions for the hazards caused by bathtubs and showers, meaning consumers and manufacturers alike can effectively intervene on these issues.

One of the most salient findings within the report is that although children under five years of age comprise only 8.5% of the total population within the United States, they represent nearly 30% of the annual 110,000 bathtub and shower-related accidents. Children under the age of five account for over 75% of bathtub and shower-related fatalities, while 90% of injuries and deaths to children under five years of age are the result of the failure of a responsible adult to supervise them.

The most common accidents reported are slips and falls in bathtubs and showers. Less frequent but usually more serious are burns from scalding water; these burns kill over 70 people each year. More than 100 people drown in bathtubs every year. 

Common Causes of Death in Bathtubs

Drowning

Many bathtub deaths result from drowning. The victim may be a small child or one with limited mobility.

Submersion Asphyxia

Submersion asphyxia, or the inability to breathe after inhaling water, can even happen in shallow depths. It is a silent danger, as it usually goes unnoticed until it’s too late.

Falling

Bathroom surfaces are slippery by nature. A possible fall in the tub can lead to head injuries leading to unconsciousness, further increasing the chances of drowning.

Heat Shock

Exposure to excessively hot water can cause heat shock leading to unconsciousness, which is very dangerous, particularly for patients with preexisting heart disease.

Electrocution

Electrical appliances, such as hair dryers near bathtubs, can cause fatal electrocution. Keeping electronic devices away from water will help avoid such disasters.

Who Is at Risk?

Children

Small children are particularly vulnerable because of their size and inability to handle themselves during emergencies.

Seniors

Elderly individuals lack good mobility and balance, so they are prone to slipping down, falling, and having other accidents in the bathtub.

People with Disabilities or Medical Conditions

People who have a disability or medical condition, such as seizures or heart conditions, can be in more danger in the bath due to their inability to react during an emergency.

Famous Cases of People Who Have Died in Bathtubs

Matthew Perry

In 2023, the world lost actor Matthew Perry to his bathtub. While his cause of death was very complex, it shows just how dangerous bathrooms can be without one even realizing it.

Whitney Houston

The tragic death of the iconic singer Whitney Houston by accidental drowning in a hotel bathtub in 2012 sent shockwaves around the world. Her case pointed out the danger of bathing with drug use.

Jim Morrison

The mysterious death of the legendary musician Jim Morrison in a Paris bathtub in 1971 has continued to be a subject of speculation; some suggest his death was related either to heart failure or to drug use.

Preventing Bathtub Accidents

Avoiding bathtub-related hazards begins with prevention. Here are some actions you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones:

  • With fall risk in mind, install grab bars and non-slip mats.
  • Keep the temperature of the water heater at a safe level (approximately 120°F).
  • Constantly supervise children.
  • Do not use electrical appliances around water.
  • For the bath, keep medications that could cause drowsiness out of reach.

What to Do if a Loved One Has Passed Away in a Bathtub Accident

Losing a loved one due to some tragedy in the bathtub is heartbreaking. You may have legal options available if negligence or hazardous conditions contributed to the incident. Documentation and expert legal advice are essential steps toward the search for justice.

Contact Cloward Trial Lawyers to Get Legal Support Today

Was your loved one a victim of a bathtub death, or do you seek help to pursue a claim? The lawyers at Cloward Trial Lawyers are there to provide families with compassionate and expert service in Las Vegas. Give us a call today at 702-605-5000 for a free consultation.

Benjamin P. Cloward

In 2016, at the age of 37, Benjamin P. Cloward became the youngest lawyer in the history of the State of Nevada to be awarded the prestigious “Trial Lawyer of the Year” by the Nevada Justice Association. That same year, he became the youngest member of the Nevada, Las Vegas Chapter of ABOTA (American Board of Trial Advocates), and at the time was also the youngest person in the State of Nevada to be Board Certified as a Personal Injury Specialist.

Practice areas: personal injury, car accidents, truck accidents, wrongful death, Greyhound bus accidents, and walk-in tub accidents.
Location: Las Vegas, NV

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Start your Free Case Evaluation by using the form below. You’ll get a fast response from one of our team members or call our office 702-605-5000.

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9950 W Cheyenne Ave Las Vegas, NV 89129

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