The Law Regarding Hotel Negligence in Florida
Florida is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, which means that it also has a thriving hotel industry. However, more hotels and hotel guests also mean more hotel guest injuries. Unfortunately, there’s been a steady increase over the years in out-of-state and local hotel guest injuries. If you or somebody you love were injured while staying at a Florida hotel, there are certain laws protecting your rights. Below we break down hotel negligence law and the duty of care that Florida hotels owe their guests.
Florida Negligence Law Mandate A Special Duty Of Care To Hotels
Florida law is cognizant of the importance of the hospitality industry (which forms a significant part of the state’s economy) and the unique service it provides customers. Hotel guests trust these businesses to provide a safe, comfortable place to stay and keep their belongings. Hotels are responsible for making sure their guests are safe while on the premises. However, accidents do occur, and sometimes hotel guests or visitors get hurt. Under Florida law, hotels and motels owe their guests a duty of care and are required to meet certain operating standards. If they breach this duty of care, they may be held liable for damages that happen due to their failure to operate within those standards.
Florida Statutes Covering Hotel Negligence
The Florida Legislature passed a set of laws to help ensure that hotels meet certain standards to protect their invitees while operating; hotels are defined as “public lodging establishments” under Chapter 509 of the Florida Statutes. Hotels are legally required to protect against people getting injured in slip and fall accidents, having accidents due to site hazards, and from criminal acts like rape, robbery, or assault. Sadly, sometimes hotels may cut corners to save money, and this can result in accidents and injuries.
Slip and Fall Accidents In Florida Hotels
If you slip and fall from a foreign substance on the floor at a business establishment, then you may file a lawsuit under Florida Statute 768.0755. This law states that a guest or other invitee who can prove the business establishment was aware of the dangerous condition and failed to take action to remedy it is legally entitled to recover compensation. However, this means that the accident victim bears the burden to prove their claim. A hotel may also be held liable in a case based on Florida’s extensive court case precedent. There is a common law of duty of care along with statutory laws that the Florida hospitality industry must abide by. If the hotel’s carelessness or mistakes result in the harm of visitors, patrons, or guests, they may also be held liable for negligence.
Tribal Law
Remember that many of Florida’s popular resorts and hotels fall under tribal jurisdiction, so if they are injured on tribal land, they must seek compensation through tribal law.
Contact Us Today
If you or somebody you love was injured on hotel property in Florida, you should consult with an experienced hotel accident lawyer. Call BCN Law Firm for a free initial evaluation of your case with a hotel accident attorney to determine your next steps.
