Can You Sue for Injuries at an Airbnb? What Ohio Guests Need to Know
Posted in Accident & Injury, Consumer Protection, Health & Wellness on November 13, 2023
Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a college visit, or a family reunion, staying at an Airbnb can be a convenient option. But what happens if the property isn’t safe and someone gets hurt?
At Elk + Elk, we’ve seen firsthand how a vacation can take a dangerous turn. If you or a loved one suffers an injury at a short-term rental in Ohio, you may be able to recover compensation through a premises liability claim.
What Is Premises Liability?
In Ohio, property owners have a legal duty to maintain a safe and habitable space. This includes homeowners who list properties on short-term rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. These hosts must fix known hazards, make reasonable repairs, and ensure guests aren’t exposed to unsafe conditions.
Since Airbnb guests are usually unfamiliar with the property’s layout and often don’t meet the host, it’s even more critical for the home to be safe and clearly marked.
Common safety issues in these cases include:
- Slippery steps or missing handrails
- Poor lighting, especially near staircases or walkways
- Stuck doors or hard-to-open entryways
- Roof leaks, broken gutters, or damaged flooring
If a dangerous condition causes someone to get hurt, the property owner can be held liable.
Who Pays for Airbnb Injuries?
Homeowners usually carry insurance, but these policies often exclude coverage for short-term rental guests. To fill the gap, Airbnb offers Host Protection Insurance, which provides up to $1 million in coverage for injuries caused by negligence.
Some hosts also hire property management companies or caretakers, who may carry separate insurance policies. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you identify all possible sources of compensation.
Case Example: Airbnb Fall Results in Brain Injury
I represented a young woman who suffered a traumatic brain injury while staying at a historic Airbnb farmhouse in Ohio. The house had stuck doors and poor lighting. While trying to find the bathroom at night, she pushed open a jammed door only to fall headfirst down a basement staircase.
We filed a lawsuit against both the homeowner and Airbnb. The case was resolved in our client’s favor, with contributions from both the homeowner’s policy and Airbnb’s Host Protection Insurance. This case is a clear example of how negligent maintenance at an Airbnb can lead to serious, life-altering injuries.
What Damages Can Be Recovered?
An Airbnb injury can lead to overwhelming medical bills, lost income, and long-term suffering. If you’re hurt due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to seek compensation for:
Economic damages:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Future care needs or home accommodations
Non-economic damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
Get Help From an Ohio Personal Injury Attorney
If you were injured while staying at an Airbnb in Ohio, don’t assume you’re out of luck. At Elk + Elk, our attorneys understand how to investigate these cases, identify all liable parties, and pursue maximum compensation.
Call 1-800-ELK-OHIO or chat online for a free consultation. Let us help you protect your rights after an Airbnb accident.