Aquatics, Waterpark, + Waterslide Experts

We provide expert witness and litigation support for cases involving waterslides and aquatic attractions, waterparks, swimming pools, drowning and near-drowning incidents, lifeguard performance, aquatic facility operations, and other aquatic injuries. Each matter is evaluated individually to determine whether it falls within our specific areas of expertise.

Yes. Waterslide dispatch and attraction operations are a significant area of our work. Cases may involve rider dispatch, rider requirements, attraction design and operation, operating procedures, staffing, supervision, training, inspections, maintenance, manufacturer guidance, signage, water conditions, and other operational factors surrounding an incident.

Depending on the circumstances, our evaluation may include lifeguard surveillance and recognition, positioning, staffing, zones of responsibility, training and competency, supervision, emergency response, rescue performance, facility policies, documentation, and overall aquatic safety systems. The scope of each analysis is driven by the facts and evidence available in the case.

Yes. Our role is to provide independent, objective analysis based on the facts of the case and the applicable aquatic operational considerations. We accept both plaintiff and defense matters when the case falls within our expertise and no conflicts exist.

Case review may include incident and investigation reports, photographs and video, policies and procedures, training records, staffing records, inspection and maintenance documentation, attraction manuals, manufacturer materials, deposition testimony, witness statements, applicable codes and standards, and other relevant evidence. We are happy to help guide attorneys into what items to request. 

The appropriate references depend on the facility, attraction, jurisdiction, incident date, and issues involved. Analysis may include applicable state or local regulations, aquatic and amusement industry standards, manufacturer requirements and guidance, facility policies and procedures, training materials, and recognized industry practices relevant to the matter.

Yes. When appropriate, site inspections can provide valuable information about the physical facility, attraction configuration, operating environment, sight lines, signage, equipment, staffing positions, procedures, measurements, and other conditions relevant to the incident.

Yes. An initial discussion can help determine whether the matter falls within our expertise and whether expert review may be beneficial. Following a conflict check, we can discuss the anticipated scope of work, available case materials, timing, and next steps.

Services may include preliminary case consultation, document and evidence review, research and analysis, site inspections, expert reports, attorney consultation, deposition testimony, and trial testimony. The scope of the engagement can be tailored to the needs and stage of the case.

Ideally, an aquatic expert should be consulted as early as practical in the case. Early involvement can help identify important records and evidence, clarify operational and technical issues, determine areas requiring additional investigation or discovery, and help attorneys better understand the aquatic environment before key evidence or opportunities for evaluation are lost.

Yes. One of the strengths we bring to expert witness work is extensive hands-on operational experience. We can help attorneys understand how aquatic facilities and waterparks function in practice—including staffing, lifeguard and dispatcher responsibilities, supervision, training, inspections, maintenance, emergency response, documentation, attraction operations, and the interaction between these systems during normal operations.

Our analysis is informed by nearly 30 years of hands-on experience operating, managing, evaluating and improving aquatic facilities and waterparks. Rather than looking only at the actions immediately surrounding an incident, we consider the broader operational system—including people, training, supervision, procedures, equipment, facility conditions, documentation and management systems—to better understand how the incident occurred and the factors that may have influenced the outcome.

Start with a brief conversation about the incident and the primary issues involved. We can determine whether the matter falls within our expertise, complete a conflict check, and provide a CV and fee schedule for further review. Contact Natalie now!