In recent years, Airbnb has grown in popularity. People like the idea of staying in a nice private home rather than a crowded hotel. There are many benefits to staying in an Airbnb. It’s often more spacious, there’s a kitchen, and feels more comfortable.
Unfortunately, the house-sharing model of Airbnb poses civil liability issues if a guest is injured while staying in an Airbnb rental. No one plans to get hurt while on a trip, but accidents happen, especially if the conditions of their Airbnb aren’t entirely safe. Injured victims may find it difficult to recover compensation because it can be unclear who is liable for their injuries. An experienced California personal injury lawyer can help victims collect fair compensation whether the homeowner, company, or both are liable.
What to Do if You’re Injured at an Airbnb in California
If you or a loved one are injured while staying at an Airbnb in California, it’s essential that you take the proper steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here are five things that you should do following your injury.
1. Seek Medical Attention
Whether or not you believe your injury requires medical attention, it’s vital that you seek medical attention. Not only do some injuries take time to develop, but the initial medical reports may play a substantial role in your personal injury claim. Additionally, if you do not seek medical attention at all, you may not be eligible to file a personal injury claim.
2. Document the Accident Scene and Injury
An Airbnb personal injury claim falls under the subcategory of premises liability claims. In this type of legal claim, you will need evidence that either the company or property owner failed their legal duty of providing you with reasonable care. Evidence such as photographs of the unsafe conditions, your injuries, medical reports, and other information regarding the accident will make it easier to prove you have a viable claim.
3. Report the Accident
As a general rule, it’s always important to report an accident to the individual property owner and the company. This report will serve as evidence.
4. Avoid Making a Statement to the Insurance Company
After reporting the accident, you will likely receive a call from an insurance representative. At this point, you are not required to give a statement. In fact, it’s in your best interest not to speak with an insurance adjuster without an attorney’s counsel. The insurance adjuster’s goal is not to represent your rights, but the rights of their clients.
5. Consult an Attorney
Airbnb and the property owner will have legal representation to protect their best interests, meaning they will try to give you as little as possible in compensation or dismiss your claim entirely. An experienced premises liability lawyer knows the tactics insurance adjusters use and can help ensure you receive the full value of your claim. Determining liability in an Airbnb premises liability claim can also be a complex process that requires extensive investigation and resources. Your attorney cannot only protect your best interest, but they can also ensure you have all the necessary evidence to prove liability and collect your damages.
Protect Your Legal Rights with the Help of a California Premises Liability Lawyer
Setareh Law has a proven track record of going up against formidable oppositions in defense of the average California resident and pursuing their legal right to compensation. We understand the burden of pursuing a legal claim and pride ourselves on being there in your time of need. The process may be complex, but our attorneys will work tirelessly to pursue your total compensation so you can focus on recovering.
If you or your loved one suffered an injury because of a company’s or property owner’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation. At Setareh Law, we are here to help you find justice. You can fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation or call us at (310) 659-1826. We also speak Spanish.