Who’s Liable If You’re Injured at an Airbnb in Florida?
Renting an Airbnb in Florida is a popular choice for visitors who want comfort, flexibility, and a taste of local living. Tampa, in particular, draws thousands of tourists and business travelers who rely on vacation rentals for their stay. But what happens if you get injured during your visit?
Whether you slipped on a wet floor, tripped on a broken staircase, or suffered due to faulty wiring, it’s important to understand your rights and who may be liable. Airbnb premises liability in Florida can be complex, especially when it comes to out-of-state accident claims in Tampa.
Understanding Airbnb Premises Liability in Florida
Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility that property owners and managers have to maintain safe conditions for guests. This applies not only to traditional businesses but also to short-term rental properties like Airbnb.
In Florida, both the host (property owner) and, in some cases, Airbnb itself could be held liable if their negligence contributed to your injury. Airbnb has a Host Protection Insurance policy that may provide up to $1 million in liability coverage for certain accidents, but that doesn’t automatically guarantee coverage or payment.
Examples of common Airbnb injury scenarios include:
- Slip and falls due to wet floors, loose rugs, or uneven surfaces
- Staircase accidents from broken railings or poor lighting
- Burn injuries or electrocution from faulty appliances
- Injuries from broken furniture or unsafe structures
- Exposure to hazardous conditions like mold or carbon monoxide
Each case depends on the circumstances, including whether the host knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to fix it or warn you.
Can You Sue for an Airbnb Injury in Florida?
Yes, you can file a premises liability claim if the property owner’s negligence caused your injury. If you’re a tourist or business traveler injured while staying at a Tampa Airbnb, you may file an out-of-state accident claim in Tampa. Florida law applies, even if you reside elsewhere.
An experienced Tampa premises liability lawyer can help determine:
- Who is responsible: The host, Airbnb, or possibly a third party like a cleaning company
- What evidence is needed: Photos, witness statements, maintenance records, etc.
- How to prove negligence: Showing the dangerous condition existed and wasn’t addressed
Airbnb’s own policies are designed to protect hosts, which is why it’s important to have a legal advocate on your side.
Steps to Take If You’re Injured at an Airbnb
If you suffer an injury while staying at a vacation rental, these steps can help preserve your claim:
- Seek medical attention: Your health and medical records are top priorities.
- Document the scene: Take clear photos or videos of the hazard that caused your injury.
- Report the incident: Let the host know and report the injury through the Airbnb platform.
- Avoid giving recorded statements: Especially to insurance adjusters, before consulting an attorney.
- Contact a local lawyer: A Tampa premises liability lawyer can handle the legal process while you focus on healing.
Time limits apply to these claims. Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years, and delaying action can hurt your case.
Injured at a Vacation Rental? Know Your Rights
An injury during your Florida getaway can derail your plans and your life. If it happened at an Airbnb, you might be unsure who’s responsible or whether you can even file a claim if you’re from out of state. Don’t let those questions stop you from getting the help and compensation you deserve. Airbnb premises liability in Florida is a specialized area of law that requires local experience and personalized attention.
At Fulgencio Law, our team understands the unique challenges of out-of-state accident claims in Tampa and is ready to help you pursue the compensation you’re owed. If you were hurt while staying at a vacation rental, call our office at (813) 463-0123 for a free consultation with a skilled Tampa premises liability lawyer.
