How Many People Use Airbnb?
Statistics indicate that over 150 million people utilize Airbnb. Airbnb is an online service that helps match members with private hospitality services. It’s an intermediary between hopeful renters and people looking for a temporary place to stay.
This ingenious modern-day arrangement isn’t without complications. What happens when someone gets injured in an Airbnb? Who is financially liable for injuries sustained at an Airbnb rental?
Airbnb Injuries
Back in 2017, multiple individuals became seriously injured while renting through Airbnb. Four citizens of London had rented an Airbnb in England, but all were severely injured when the balcony suddenly collapsed. Afterward, Airbnb denied any liability.
The same year, Andrew Callard, a resident of Louisiana, was renting an Airbnb. The stairs on the rental property unexpectedly collapsed, and Callard fell over ten feet. Airbnb denied liability, but Callard brought them to court. Ultimately, a Judge ruled that Airbnb didn’t owe any duty of care to the victim nor did they have any knowledge of the unsafe conditions. Airbnb wasn’t held liable.
Airbnb’s Terms of Service also include a specific statement that the contractual relationship exists only between the property owner and the renter.
Safety Concerns at Airbnb Rentals
Airbnb rentals pose a unique risk for renters. Unlike hotels and other facilities, Airbnb hosts do not have any type of safety checks to ensure their property is safe for guests. Here are some of the most pressing concerns about Airbnb rentals:
- A lack of smoke or carbon monoxide detectors
- Missing or expired equipment like fire extinguishers or first aid kids
- Failure to warn renters about known hazards or dangers
- A lack of instructions concerning the use of hot tubs, jacuzzis or other equipment
Any of these safety concerns can lead to an unexpected injury for a renter. It’s important for Airbnb customers to recognize the risk they are taking when they agree to an Airbnb rental with a homeowner.
Homeowner Liability
If the company denies liability, then an injured victim may need to seek compensation from the homeowner. In many situations, a homeowner’s insurance policy will cover injuries, but other policies don’t allow compensation for commercial use. These complicated factors make financial recovery from Airbnb injuries difficult. If you’ve been injured during an Airbnb stay, then it’s best to seek out a qualified attorney to help with your claim.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Personal Injury Case in Florida
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to homeowner negligence at an Airbnb in Florida? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Lawlor, White & Murphey represent clients injured because of homeowner liability in Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Weston, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Plantation, and throughout Florida. Call 954-525-2345 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 2211 Davie Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, as well as offices in Pembroke Pines, Weston, Coconut Creek, Pompano Beach, Plantation.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.