What to Do if You Are Injured at a Hotel

An accident and injury can happen at any time, including while you’re staying at a hotel, motel or inn. If you get injured at a hotel, such as in a slip and fall accident or an assault in the parking lot, it is important to do certain things to protect your rights. Being prepared and knowing what to do in the event of an injury at a hotel can allow you to take the right steps to move forward.

Report the Incident

First, tell someone in a position of authority at the hotel about the accident. Do this without delay, while the dangerous condition or hazard is still there. Tell a hotel manager or supervisor what happened and request an official accident report. If you’ve been the victim of a crime at a hotel in Arizona, call 911 to report it to local law enforcement. Explain what caused your accident, injury or illness to hotel management. Some of the most common causes of hotel injuries are:

• Slip, trip and fall accidents
• Swimming pool and diving accidents
• Food poisoning at hotel restaurants
• Hotel elevator and escalator accidents
• Injuries from broken furniture
• Bed bug infestations
• Hotel parking lot and garage accidents
• Hotel shuttle accidents
• Hotel gym equipment injuries
• Burns or electrocutions at a hotel
• Negligent security/crimes

Reporting your accident documents it for the record, helping you prove an injury case against the hotel later. Hotels are responsible for the safety of their guests. If the hotel or one of its staff members should have done something more to prevent your accident, you may be able to hold the company financially responsible for your medical bills and other losses. Start building a case by telling an authority what happened right away.

Document Everything

Document the details of your hotel accident and injury for an insurance claim or lawsuit. Start by taking pictures of the scene of the accident and the hazard that injured you, before a hotel employee has the chance to make repairs. Write down the name of the manager that you speak to, as well as the names of any eyewitnesses. If any security cameras caught the accident on tape, ask for copies of this, as well. Document your injuries by obtaining copies of your medical records and taking photographs of the injuries as you heal. Keep any bills and receipts connected to your accident, as well as any correspondence between you and hotel management.

See a Doctor Without Delay

If your injuries are serious, call 911 to request an ambulance from the hotel. Otherwise, visit a local emergency room or doctor’s office as soon as possible. Waiting to see a doctor can decrease your chances of having a valid injury claim against the hotel. Tell the doctor treating you exactly how and where your injury happened, and request copies of your medical bills and records.

Contact a Hotel Accident Lawyer

Your next step should be contacting a premise liability lawyer who can help you build a claim against the hotel for failing to prevent your accident and injury. An attorney can help you collect evidence, including hiring accident investigators and medical experts to prove your case. A lawyer can also take over complicated legal processes and requirements on your behalf while you concentrate on healing from your injuries.

While a hotel, its insurance company and its aggressive legal team may try to convince you to settle for less than your case is worth, an experienced attorney can help you fight for fair and full financial compensation for your injuries. Contact an attorney at The Law Offices of John Phebus Criminal and Personal Injury Lawyer today to request a free consultation if you get injured at a hotel in Arizona.