When someone stays at a motel, they expect a basic level of safety. Unfortunately, our Atlanta, GA motel serious injury lawyer knows that serious injuries can happen on motel property due to unsafe conditions or lack of proper security. In many cases, the motel may be legally responsible. Whether it’s a fall, an assault, or an accident caused by poor maintenance, the question of liability comes down to whether the motel failed to take reasonable steps to protect its guests. We work on a contingent-fee basis, so speak with us about what that may look like for your case.
Duty To Maintain Safe Premises
Motel owners have a legal obligation to keep their property safe for guests. That includes regular inspections, timely repairs, proper lighting, and clear walkways. If a guest is seriously injured because the motel failed to correct a known hazard, the motel may be held liable under premises liability law.
For example, if a guest slips on a wet floor that wasn’t marked with a warning sign, or falls down stairs with broken handrails, the motel may be responsible. The key factor is whether the danger was known or should have been known, and whether reasonable action was taken to fix it or warn guests.
Security And Third-Party Crimes
Motel liability can also arise when a guest is injured due to violent crime on the property. Motels located in areas with a history of crime must take steps to protect guests, especially when incidents are foreseeable. This might include adding security cameras, hiring guards, locking side entrances, and maintaining adequate lighting in parking areas.
If a motel fails to provide these measures and a guest is assaulted, robbed, or worse, the motel may be responsible for failing to prevent the harm. These types of claims are often referred to as negligent security cases. They focus on whether the motel did enough to protect guests from foreseeable threats.
Room Safety And Maintenance Failures
Injuries can also result from conditions inside the guest rooms themselves. Faulty appliances, exposed wiring, broken furniture, or scalding water can all pose risks. If a child is burned by a broken heater or a guest suffers an electrical shock from a damaged outlet, the motel may be held accountable.
Room conditions should be regularly checked by staff, and any reports of damage should be taken seriously. When corners are cut, guests pay the price.
Poor Sanitation Or Health Hazards
Unsanitary conditions can also lead to serious injuries or illness. This might include mold growth, pest infestations, or exposure to cleaning chemicals. If a guest becomes seriously ill due to poor cleaning practices or environmental hazards, that too can be grounds for legal action.
Taking Legal Action
If a guest is seriously hurt while staying at a motel, they may be able to file a claim to recover damages. This can include compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. The strength of the claim will depend on the facts of the case and the available evidence.
At Deitch + Rogers, we help people who have suffered serious injuries due to unsafe or negligent conditions at motels and other public places. If you or a loved one was hurt while staying at a motel, contact us to discuss your legal options. We exclusively represent crime victims and their families. We’re here to answer your questions and help you take the next steps toward recovery.