New Orleans Athletic Club sued by swimmer claiming chemical burns

A Jefferson Parish woman is suing New Orleans Athletic Club claiming she suffered chemical burns in the swimming pool.

Janet Moulton Emmett filed the lawsuit Nov. 18 in Orleans Parish District Court against Lynn Properties LLC, doing business as New Orleans Athletic Club, and its insurance carriers, Sports and Fitness Insurance Corporation and XYZ Insurance Company.

According to the petition, Janet Moulton swam at the club on a regular basis since becoming a member in January 2007.

In November 2009, Moulton says she stepped into the pool and immediately felt a burning sensation on her skin. She claims she received a chemical burn to several parts of her body, including her face and neck.

Moulton is suing the owners of the athletic club for negligence, alleging they failed to maintain a proper chemical balance in the pool. Moulton's husband, William, is also listed as a plaintiff and is suing for loss of consortium.

The couple is asking for an unspecified amount of money for damages, medical expenses and court costs.

Attorney Phyllis C. Coci of Metairie is representing the Moultons.

Orleans Parish District Court Case No. 10-11626