Hotels are generally viewed as safe havens when you travel. Nonetheless, accidents can and do happen in Texas hotels, some resulting in serious injuries. In many instances, these accidents are due to the negligence of hotel management or maintenance, in which case guests are legally entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
If you have suffered harm in a hotel accident in Dallas-Fort Worth, now is the time to contact the well-respected legal team of Rochelle McCullough, LLP. Our attorneys have the in-depth knowledge of Texas personal injury law and the extensive litigation experience to fight for your right to recover meaningful damages. We also have a history of successful outcomes, both in and out of the courtroom.
1. Slip and Falls
Slip and falls are one of the most prevalent types of accidents in hotels. These incidents can occur due to a number of factors, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or obstructed walkways. In hotels, slip and falls often happen in high-traffic areas like lobbies, hallways, and staircases.
Hotels have a responsibility to maintain a safe environment for their guests. When they fail to address hazards or neglect maintenance duties, they can be held liable for resulting injuries.
2. Bed-Bug Infestations
Bed-bug infestations are more than just an unpleasant experience; they can cause serious health issues such as skin infections, allergic reactions, and intense psychological distress. Hotels are expected to maintain a clean and sanitary environment, including regularly inspecting their guest rooms for invasive insects, rodents, and other health hazards, like mold. If they fail, affected guests are entitled to sue for damages.
3. Food Poisoning
Food poisoning occurs when food is contaminated by improper storage, inspection, preparation, or handling, and can result from a hotel restaurant or room-service meal.
If you have suffered food poisoning after eating in a hotel in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you know just how awful the ailment is. Its symptoms range from mild nausea to severe gastrointestinal distress and can significantly impact your health and travel plans. In worst case scenarios, food poisoning can lead to hospitalization or even death.
4. Elevator & Escalator Accidents
Elevator and escalator accidents can result in severe injuries if these systems are not properly maintained or if safety protocols are not followed. Common issues include malfunctioning equipment, inadequate maintenance (e.g. failing to have the elevator inspected at regular intervals), and failure to adhere to safety standards. Hotels are required to keep their equipment safe for guests to use.
5. Swimming Pool Accidents
Swimming pool accidents can range from slip and fall injuries around the pool area to drownings or near-drownings due to poorly maintained pool facilities and systems. They can also include illness due to excessive chlorination or accidents involving hair or clothing being sucked into drains and resulting in severe injuries.
Most hotels in Texas are not required to have lifeguards as long as they post signage indicating that no lifeguard is on duty. However, they must maintain the pool and surrounding areas safely or will be held accountable for premises liability if an accident occurs.
What To Do After a Hotel Accident
Do your best to document the incident by taking the following steps:
- Write a brief, but detailed account of the accident
- Take photos of the site and, if possible, of your injuries
- Save all records pertaining to EMT intervention, hospitalization, medical diagnoses and treatment, use of medical devices or medication
- Report your accident to the hotel management and keep a copy of the report
Taking these steps will be invaluable if you decide to take legal action.
How Rochelle McCullough Determines Liability
Determining liability in hotel injury cases involves proving that the hotel was negligent in maintaining a safe environment. This means showing that the hotel failed to uphold their duty of care, resulting in unsafe conditions that directly caused your injury and are therefore responsible for all related costs and losses.
Rochelle McCullough is dedicated to fighting for your rights and helping you receive the compensation you deserve. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will:
- Investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury
- Gather crucial evidence (e.g. photos, surveillance footage)
- Identify and interview witnesses
- Build a strong case against responsible parties
If possible, we will skillfully negotiate a fair out-of-court settlement. If the opposing attorneys or insurance adjusters are intractable, however, we are well-prepared to bring your case to trial in order to recover maximum damages.
Contact Our Experienced Dallas-Fort WorthHotel Accident Attorneys Today
Being seriously injured in a hotel accident is a jarring experience, complicated by the fact that you are away from your home, your primary care doctor, your familiar resources, and your support system.
If you are the unfortunate victim of a hotel accident in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Rochelle McCullough’s empathic attorneys stand ready to provide you with superior legal representation and personalized attention. Contact us now so we can evaluate your claim. If we determine that you have a winnable case, we will immediately begin fighting for your right to be fully compensated for your physical, emotional, and financial losses. You can count on us to be powerful advocates for your cause and to support you every step of the way.