What You Need to Know About Airbnb Injuries as a Tourist in Alaska
Many tourists coming to visit Alaska’s breathtaking scenery will opt for lodging through home-sharing services like AirBnB, and for good reason. Whether you are booking a room or entire home, the cost is often lower than a traditional hotel or other commercial accommodations. Plus, you can often find unique lodging in remote areas that are not serviced by popular chains.
Though it is true that most guests enjoy a positive experience through Airbnb, there are some who do not. Dangerous conditions at some of these spaces can lead to injuries, leading to considerable losses and ruining your vacation. The fact that you are far from home can exacerbate the situation, which is why you should discuss your rights with an Alaska tourist injuries lawyer. You might also benefit from reviewing some important legal information.
Liability for Airbnb Injuries
When you are hurt by conditions at a property listed with a home-sharing service, you have rights under the theory of premises liability. This type of personal injury claim is based upon the property owner’s duty to ensure that the space is safe for guests like you. Generally, an owner may breach this legal obligation by failing to properly maintain the property, make repairs to a dangerous condition, or include warnings about hazards that you may not spot.
Filing a Claim for Compensation
Though the owner’s misconduct may be the direct cause of an injury-causing accident, you would actually seek monetary damages for your losses through an insurance claim. Airbnb provides up to $1 million in coverage to victims, who may be able to receive compensation for:
- The costs of the booking;
- Medical expenses;
- Lost wages, if you cannot work because of your injuries;
- Pain and suffering;
- Emotional distress; and,
- Losses based upon how your injuries affect your quality of life.
What to do if You are Injured as an Airbnb Guest
Your first priority should be getting proper medical care, for purposes of your own well-being AND your claim. Once you have received appropriate treatment, make sure to:
Gather evidence at the property, in the space where the accident occurred. Take pictures of the hazardous condition, your injuries, and any other relevant factors.
- Document everything about the accident, and ask other guests to do the same.
- Contact an attorney who focuses on tourist injuries, since these professionals know how to handle your Airbnb injury claim even after you have returned home from your trip. Your lawyer will investigate, prepare all claims forms, collect supporting evidence, and negotiate on your behalf with the insurance company.
Get More Information From an Alaska Tourist Injuries Attorney
Getting hurt due to dangerous conditions at an Airbnb property is obviously an awful situation, but you could be even further confused and overwhelmed about what to do after an accident happens on a trip. Fortunately, our team at Power & Power Law has specific knowledge and experience in tourist injuries, including those that result from a home sharing arrangement. For more information on your legal options, contact our office in Anchorage, Alaska to set up a free consultation today.