Airbnb’s popularity has soared since its debut in 2008.
Travelers prefer booking short-term accommodations on the platform because these listings typically offer added privacy and many creature comforts you’d find in your own home.
With listings available across the globe, you’d assume that Airbnb accommodations are strictly regulated.
However, that’s often not the case.
This lack of regulation is why staying in an Airbnb can put your safety at risk. If you suffered injuries in an Airbnb, you need an experienced Los Angeles Airbnb attorney.
Many things can happen at an Airbnb that might lead to a personal injury lawsuit.
Guests have reported being victims of a crime or suffering injuries due to poor maintenance. Airbnb is quick to deny responsibility and will likely give you the run around before paying you any compensation.
That’s why it’s crucial to hire a Los Angeles Airbnb lawyer to represent you.
Common Types of Airbnb Accidents
Airbnb properties have the same potential hazards as other homes and apartments. One significant difference, though, is that new people are constantly coming and going.
These guests don’t always treat the property well, which can create additional hazards. Some properties have vacancy periods that can lead to problems if the property sits unoccupied for months at a time.
Some of the most common accidents we see include:
- Falling objects,
- Slip-and-fall accidents,
- Exposure to hazardous substances or toxic chemicals,
- Part of the structure collapsed,
- Crimes,
- Animal attacks,
- Sexual harassment,
- Swimming pool accidents, and
- Electrical fires or electrocution.
Pursuing compensation for these types of incidents is not easy.
A skilled legal advocate who understands how to build a successful case against Airbnb can help you get the compensation you deserve.
If you need a lawyer to sue Airbnb, Weinberg Law Offices is here to help.
Common Injuries in an Airbnb Accident
Because so many different types of properties are available through Airbnb, a variety of injuries can occur at Airbnb accommodations.
Some of the most common Airbnb injuries we’ve represented clients for include the following:
- Broken or fractured bones;
- Neck and back sprains and strains;
- Torn muscles or ligaments;
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Concussions;
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Internal bleeding or organ damage;
- Infections;
- Burns;
- Contusions, lacerations, abrasions, and puncture wounds;
- Nerve damage;
- Coma;
- Paralysis; and
- Death.
The more severe your injuries are, the more compensation you might be entitled to receive.
Your Airbnb attorney will discuss your injuries, prognosis, and future expected treatment plan to calculate an accurate case value for you.
Who Is Liable for Your Injuries at an Airbnb?
Owners have a legal responsibility to keep invited guests safe by making sure their property is free from hazards. Invited guests include Airbnb renters.
To prove that an Airbnb host is liable for your damages, you need proof of your injuries and the hazardous condition that caused your injuries.
What happens when a homeowner knew there was a problem before you arrived but never took the proper precautions to fix it?
Perhaps the home suffered structural damage in a recent storm. The homeowner called a repair person to estimate the cost of fixing it but decided it was too expensive and left the property as is.
The host could be liable for your injuries and other losses you suffered because of that structural damage.
Airbnb Host Liability Insurance
While Airbnb has host liability insurance as part of AirCover for Hosts, getting the company to cover losses is challenging.
Hosts have up to $1 million in coverage if a guest’s belongings are stolen or damaged or if a guest suffers injuries. But that coverage only applies if the host is legally responsible for the injuries.
If a host is liable, the insurance covers the following:
- Bodily injury to a guest,
- Theft of or damage to a guest’s property, and
- Damage caused by the guest to common areas, like an apartment lobby.
Airbnb host liability insurance does not cover injuries or damages caused by intentional acts.
Filing a Claim Against Airbnb
You must have proper evidence to support your damages claim to sue Airbnb. Examples of evidence that can help support your claim include:
- Photos of your injuries;
- Proof you rented the Airbnb;
- Scene photos of the property and the hazards present;
- Proof of medical treatment, including bills and medical records; and
- Interviews, reviews, or testimonials from people who stayed at the same property and suffered similar issues.
Be sure to go to the doctor immediately after an accident. You could have severe injuries that need immediate medical attention, depending on the type of accident you suffered.
Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s still a good idea to be evaluated by a medical professional.
Recoverable Damages in an Airbnb Lawsuit
Your recoverable damages depend on the circumstances and events that led to your injuries. Some of the most common damages you might receive compensation for include:
- Medical expenses to date,
- Future medical expenses,
- Lost wages to date,
- Future loss of earning capacity,
- Pain and suffering,
- Disability,
- Disfigurement and scarring,
- Mental anguish,
- Property damage, and
- Reimbursement for expenses you incurred.
When you meet with a Los Angeles Airbnb attorney at Weinberg Law Offices, we’ll explain the damages you might be eligible to recover in your case.
Contact Weinberg Law Offices
If you sustained injuries in an Airbnb, please speak with an experienced Los Angeles Airbnb attorney at Weinberg Law Offices.
We understand the challenges you’ll face when suing Airbnb. We will help you build a strong case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation to learn how we can assist you.