These days, many people prefer staying at an Airbnb rather than a traditional hotel. Whether you're on vacation or traveling for business, Airbnb provides a home away from home. The option is cheaper and, at times, more appealing than a hotel. However, Airbnb doesn't outshine hotels during compensation after an injury.
You might suffer an injury while staying in an Airbnb because of negligence. The law allows plaintiffs to seek compensation for such injuries through a claim. Victims have a right to recover damages from the liable party.
The hotel is liable for compensation if you get injured there. However, if you suffer an injury at an Airbnb, liability isn’t so clear-cut. Do you make a claim against Airbnb, the host, or the landlord? Read on for more on what you need to know about claims after an Airbnb accident in NYC.
Airbnb Host Liability Insurance
Airbnb offers some protection to those injured during their stays. The company has host liability insurance; it provides Airbnb hosts with $1 million in liability coverage.
The cover applies to anyone who gets injured in an Airbnb accident. It’s also applicable if a host is legally liable for damage or theft of a guest’s property. Apart from guests, liability insurance also covers co-hosts and cleaners.
If you suffer injuries due to an Airbnb accident in New York City, you can sue Airbnb’s insurer. They will cover losses such as bodily injury, property damage, and property theft. However, Airbnb doesn’t cover some injuries. For example, they won’t cover injuries or damage resulting from intentional actions.
When Airbnb’s $1 Million Coverage Isn’t Enough
You may suffer such significant injuries that Airbnb’s $1 million cover isn’t enough. Examples of such injuries include traumatic brain injury and acute spinal cord injury. You will need surgery, physical therapy, medication, and more to recover. The cost of all these medical services can quickly add up and surpass $1 million.
It can be frustrating to find yourself in such a situation. Paying out of pocket can leave you and your family financially devastated. That’s where a lawyer comes in. An attorney can assess your Airbnb accident case and help you recover compensation. They understand the law and can guide you on how to proceed when Airbnb’s cover is inadequate.
New York City Statute of Limitations
Don’t stay for too long without seeking legal help after an Airbnb accident in NYC. The law provides a deadline for bringing personal injury lawsuits. The deadline is commonly known as the statute of limitations.
You have three years to bring a personal injury suit in New York. It starts counting from the date of the injury. There are few exceptions to filing a claim or suit after the deadline elapses. The court will dismiss your case. If that happens, you’ll lose the chance to recover compensation for your injuries.
Possible Challenges in Recovering Compensation After an Airbnb Accident in NYC
Some challenges may arise in the pursuit of compensation after your Airbnb accident. This is especially true if the $1 million host liability insurance is insufficient. Here is a breakdown of one of the challenges.
Many people have homeowner’s insurance for their property. It provides coverage if people get injured while on the property. However, some policies don’t cover homeowners who use their property commercially.
A homeowner may fail to tell their insurance company they’re renting the property. Doing so may present significant challenges when it comes to financial recovery.
What to do After Suffering Injuries in an NYC Airbnb Accident
You may not know what to do after suffering an Airbnb accident in NYC. It’s understandable, considering it’s not every day you deal with such incidents. Make sure you seek medical care after suffering an injury. The doctor will treat your injuries and include them in your medical report. The report will help prove your claims.
Evidence is the backbone of every case, including yours. Document the dangerous conditions at the Airbnb property that caused your accident. Do that by taking photos and videos. These will serve as proof of negligence. Also, ask eyewitnesses for their contact information. Their statements can help back up your claims.
You Deserve Compensation After Your Airbnb Accident in NYC
When you book a stay at Airbnb, you expect to have a great time and get value for your money. However, your stay may end up getting interrupted by a preventable accident. If someone’s negligence caused your Airbnb accident NYC, you deserve to hold them liable.
Brandon J Broderick, NYC Personal Injury, Attorney at Law
If you’ve been injured at an Airbnb or hotel in New York City, contact us to discuss your options. One of our trusted team members will listen to your story, learn about your case, and can advise you on the next steps. Many of our clients feel a sense of relief once they make that first phone call.
Locations across New York City and the entire tri-state area, including Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, New Jersey and Connecticut. Contact us today for a free consultation.