With over 300,000 AIRBNB rental properties in the State of California, it is almost incomprehensible to imagine the number of people who visit these properties each year. But it is easy to agree that the number is well into the millions. So there are sure to be some issues and mishaps that occur. If you were one of the unfortunate guests who fell down the stairs at an AIRBNB due to poor lighting, it is vital for you to understand your rights and how to protect them. The accident injury lawyers at Normandie Law Firm are here to help you understand how to move forward after a fall down steps at an AIRBNB, what you need to do to document the details, and how to secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
The Short Answer Is Yes, You Can Sue
After suffering a fall down the stairs at an AIRBNB, your brain is sure to be filled with many questions. Rest assured. You are not alone. Millions of people each year suffer falls much like you, and need to know the answer to many questions like can I sue, and who is responsible for my injuries? The injury accident lawyers at Normandie Law Firm are here to offer the information you need for free. Just contact our office and request a free consolation to discuss your injuries, the details of your fall and the AIRBNB, and any other concerns related to a lawsuit to recover the compensation owed to you.
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How Does Poor Lighting Contribute To A Fall On Stairs At An AIRBNB?
When you think about your fall at the AIRBNB, you might not be able to specifically recall thinking about moving up or down the stairs. Your body just does what is necessary to step up and down to traverse the steps. However, when you are in unfamiliar surroundings, like an AIR BNB, you subconsciously look at the steps and the surrounding area for added safety. In the event of poorly lit stairs, your mind and body can quickly be in conflict. You think you see a broken step or torn carpet on a step, and your brain hesitates for an instant. And that can be all it takes to lose your balance and fall.
Poor lighting complicates your view of the steps, any items lying on the steps, or any defects that might require extra care to navigate the stairs safely. Even something as simple as a loose handrail or damage to the handrail could cause a fall if you cannot clearly see the issue due to poor lighting in the stairwell.
Always Seek Medical Care After A Fall On Stairs
Many fall victims are in shock after a tumble down a flight of stairs. And sadly, they think that they are not seriously injured. But it only takes minutes in most cases to understand that there can be severe injuries due to the edges of the stair treads, walls along the staircase, and safety rail protruding from the wall. So even if you think you only suffered a few minor bumps and bruises, seek medical care immediately. Many severe injuries could be hard to notice while in shock but will become life-altering or life-threatening if not treated immediately. Some of the most typical stairway fall injuries include:
- Joint dislocations
- Fractured or broken bones
- Damage to the head, neck, or spinal cord
- A concussion, brain bleed, or other traumatic brain injuries
- Sprains, strains, or tears to soft tissue
- Cuts, abrasions, or severe lacerations
- Facial injuries or damage to the nose, eyes, mouth, or teeth
The sooner you seek a medical evaluation, the sooner your injuries will be appropriately treated and begin to heal. In addition, you will have a complete record of the injuries sustained when you fell down the stairs due to poor lighting.
What To Do After Getting A Full Medical Evaluation
Once you return to the AIRBNB, you could be tempted to pack your things and return home, thinking your vacation is ruined. However, it is essential to gather some information before leaving. It is very likely that you will not have access to the property again. And if you return in the future, the poor lighting could already be corrected. So before leaving the property, be sure to:
- Document the stairs where you fell with the lights on to show the poor lighting. If there are no working lights in the stairway, take pictures in the dark and then in daylight to capture the space and challenges you face.
- Get pictures of the handrail or lack of handrails.
- If there is damage to any stair surfaces, get close-up pictures of the damage or issues.
- Be sure to get pictures of all your injuries on the day of the incident and in the coming days as added bruising and swelling appear.
It is also essential to keep all the medical records from your evaluation, the rental agreement for the AIRBNB, and any welcome information with specific instructions or guidelines for the use of the house. All this information will help support your case against the owner of the AIRBNB.
Who Is Responsible For Your Injuries?
Premises liability is a part of the law that defines the level of care required by property owners. It applies to all properties, not just rental AIRBNB houses or commercial properties. As the owner of any property, there is a responsibility to maintain the property and any structures in a safe and hazard-free manner. So in your case, the owner of the AIRBNB should have made sure that there was proper lighting in the stairway.
The basic concept is that a property owner must apply the same level of care that any prudent person would. So if you would not have steps in your home without a working light or dim or poor lighting, then you should not have that situation in your AIRBNB. So if you fail to provide a safe environment at the property, you are negligent in your duty of care. And it is that negligence that will be used to determine that you, as the property owner are financially responsible for any injuries caused by your negligence.
What Is The Potential Value Of My AIRBNB Stairway Fall?
As you work with the Normandie Law Firm team, you will better understand the potential value of your AIRBNB stairway fall lawsuit. Each case is unique, and the actual amount of your losses and expenses determines the dollar amount. Some of the amounts that will impact the amount of your lawsuit settlement include:
- The amount of all current medical bills and future treatment needed for your injuries
- The amount of any property losses due to the incident, for example, a phone that was destroyed in the fall
- The total of any lost wages if you were unable to return to work during your recovery period
- The total lost wages for the time needed to attend medical appointments, therapy, or rehabilitation
- The total of your legal fees for the lawsuit
In addition, you owe us nothing if we fail to win your case and get you compensation for your injuries or losses. We hope this policy provides each client with confidence in our capability and dedication to protecting their right to see justice served. Please get in touch with our office today for a free consultation to discuss your injuries and stairway fall injury case and how the Normandie team will work to protect your rights and financial future.
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