Legal News

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is warning visitors to Ilfracombe in Devon not to “tombstone” by jumping off the harbour walls at Ilfracombe Harbour.

The council says that a number of people have been jumping into the water off the harbour walls – which is extremely dangerous because not only do they not know where the shallow areas are in the harbour, boats come in and out of the harbour constantly.

Advice from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency sets out why tombstoning is dangerous – including the fact that water depth alters with the tide and the water may be shallower than it seems.

Submerged objects like rocks may also not be visible and they can cause serious injury if a swimmer leaps onto them.

The shock of cold water can also make it difficult to swim and strong currents can rapidly sweep people away.

Ilfracombe Harbourmaster Rob Lawson said:

“With the recent warm weather, we have noticed more and more people jumping into the water – this is not only very dangerous, but also against the law.

“A local byelaw exists because Ilfracombe Harbour is a busy place, with many boat and ship movements a day.

“Those that are risking their lives with sometimes little or no knowledge of the water depth or vessels’ movements are being foolhardy – and we need to stop them before somebody gets hurt.

“Along with the police and with CCTV evidence, we will be monitoring this behaviour and prosecuting offenders where appropriate.”

The penalty for jumping off the harbour can be up to a £1,000 fine upon prosecution.

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Duncan Lewis Personal Injury Solicitors can advise those who suffer injury in swimming accidents caused by another party’s negligence on how to make a no win no fee claim for compensation – including swimming accidents which take place on package holidays or in England and Wales.

Claims for swimming accidents have to be made within three years – children can make personal injury claims up to the age of 21.
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For expert legal advice on no win no fee Swimming Accident Claims, call Duncan Lewis personal injury solicitors on 0333 772 0409.