Most Common Types of Airbnb Accidents

As the sharing economy continues to grow, many people consider vacation rental services like Airbnb their first choice for travel accommodations. However, these short-term rental platforms also come with a variety of risks, from personal injury to property damage and more.

Whether you are an Airbnb host or guest, it is important to be aware of the types of accidents that may occur during a stay. Airbnb hosts can be held legally responsible if they fail to maintain the property in a reasonably safe condition or if they know of a potential hazard but take no action to address it.

Below are just a few of the types of accidents that may result in an Airbnb injury claim.

1. Slip and Fall Accidents

Perhaps the most common type of Airbnb injury case is a slip and fall. Guests can slip, trip, and fall for a wide range of reasons, from wet floors and loose rugs to chipped tiles and poorly maintained staircases.

2. Swimming Pool Accidents

Many vacation rentals have swimming pools available for guest use, but they can pose serious dangers if not properly maintained and safeguarded. Severe injury or even death can occur from situations such as someone accidentally falling into the water or slipping on a slick surface around the pool area.

3. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Another potentially deadly risk for Airbnb guests is carbon monoxide poisoning. This can occur if a rental property has appliances that are faulty or improperly installed, maintained, or ventilated. Airbnb owners are responsible for ensuring their properties are safe and free of dangerous conditions like carbon monoxide leaks.

4. Fires and Burns

Fires may start at Airbnb properties while guests are cooking in the kitchen or using an outdoor grill or fire pit. They can also be caused by other electrical hazards in the home, including space heaters, generators, outdated wiring, overloaded outlets, and clogged dryer lint screens.

5. Exposure to Toxins or Allergens

Airbnb guests may suffer reactions to substances like mold, pet allergens, toxic chemicals, and even illegal drugs that may be on the property. If a host has not cleaned properly or disclosed potential allergens in the home, guests may experience a variety of ill effects.

6. Bed Bug Infestations

While less common than some other Airbnb incidents, bed bug infestations can also be a source of liability for property owners. Bed bugs can cause significant discomfort and even health issues, and may require costly treatments to eliminate.

7. Other Personal Injuries

Airbnb injuries can also result from a host of other issues, such as when furniture breaks, decks collapse, or overhead lighting falls. In addition, negligent security or inadequate supervision may lead to robberies, sexual assaults, or dog bites.

Massachusetts Airbnb Lawyers

If you have been injured while staying at an Airbnb or other short-term rental property, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more. While you can often make a claim through Airbnb’s insurance, recouping your damages isn’t always as simple as it might seem.

A skilled personal injury attorney can help you build your case to hold negligent property owners accountable for harm caused to guests. Contact Altman & Altman LLP for a free consultation with an experienced Airbnb injury lawyer.