If you live up North, then you most likely take advantage of the warm summer weather while we have it. This means barbecues, pool parties, and vacations with friends and family. When you take a vacation, you expect a fun, relaxing week or weekend. However, if you’ll be staying in a hotel, it is important you know what to do in the event of an accident. Hotels are responsible for ensuring your safety for the duration of your stay, so if you find yourself injured due to another party’s negligence, here are some of the questions you might have:

What are the primary types of hotel accidents?

Lots of hotels have swimming pools out front, which are an inherent safety hazard, especially to children. Additionally, the bigger the hotel, the more features it will have. For example, larger hotels tend to have gyms, spas, cafes and more. Here are just some of the potential accidents that may occur in a hotel:

• Parking lot/garage accidents–these are usually caused by inadequate lighting or security, which would be considered negligent on the part of the property owner
• Elevator accidents
• Escalator accidents
• Sidewalk accidents–poor sidewalk conditions or maintenance, such as potholes or black ice that was not shoveled or salted
• Unsanitary conditions
• Stairway accidents
• Gym equipment accidents
• Accidents involving the hotel bar

Am I eligible for financial compensation?

The general rule of thumb in personal injury cases is that if you were injured due to another party’s negligence, there is a very good chance that you will recover compensation. For example, if a person was obviously severely intoxicated and a bartender served him or her a drink, the bartender may be violating dram shop laws. If this man or woman later got into a car and hit someone, there is a good chance the bartender will be held accountable.

How can I help prove another party’s negligence?

Thankfully, you may boost your chances of winning your case. You will need enough supporting evidence to satisfy the burden of proof, so it is important you know what to do. The most important thing you can do following a hotel accident is asking for the security camera footage that may have recorded the incident as it happened. Additionally, it never hurts to have witnesses who will back you up with their testimony. Lastly, you should always seek medical attention following a hotel accident. A medical professional will treat your injuries and provide you with documentation detailing the severity of your injuries. 

Contact our New York firm

Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. Call 212-421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a New York City personal injury lawyer.