New Jersey is well known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and rich history. All these qualities attract millions of tourists each year, and many of these visitors opt to stay in vacation rentals provided by platforms like VRBO. While these rentals offer a home-away-from-home experience, accidents can happen, turning a pleasant stay into a stressful ordeal. If you find yourself injured while staying at a VRBO in New Jersey, it’s important to understand your rights and the necessary steps to take.
Immediate Steps to Take After an Injury
An injury during a vacation can be disorienting and stressful. Here’s what you should do immediately after sustaining an injury at a VRBO rental:
- Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health. Whether the injury is minor or severe, seeking medical attention promptly ensures that your injuries are properly documented and treated.
- Document Everything: Collect as much evidence as possible. This includes:
- Taking photos or videos of the scene of the accident.
- Recording your injuries with clear, dated photos.
- Keeping copies of all medical records and bills.
- Gathering contact information from any witnesses or other guests present.
- Report the Incident: Inform the property owner about the incident as soon as possible. Additionally, report the accident to VRBO to ensure there is an official record of the event.
Understanding VRBO Insurance and Liability
VRBO offers liability insurance for property owners, providing coverage up to a million dollars for incidents involving guests. This insurance is meant to protect property owners from financial liability when a guest is injured. Here’s what you need to know:
- Coverage Details: VRBO’s insurance covers property owners for guest injuries and third-party property damage. It supplements any existing homeowner insurance policies the property owner might have.
- Limitations and Challenges: While the coverage might seem substantial, it can quickly be exhausted in cases of severe injuries involving extensive medical care, long-term treatment, or significant legal fees.
- Guest Insurance Options: Guests can also purchase accidental damage insurance through VRBO, which covers damage to the property during their stay. However, this insurance does not cover personal injuries sustained by guests.
Legal Steps and Considerations
If you are injured at a VRBO property, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. Here are the steps to consider:
Hiring an Attorney
Given the complexities of insurance claims and potential legal battles, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney is essential. An attorney can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that your rights are protected.
Statute of Limitations
In New Jersey, there is a statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims. Typically, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Acting promptly ensures that you don’t miss this critical deadline and allows your attorney to gather all necessary evidence while the details are fresh.
Filing a Claim
When filing a claim, thorough preparation is key. Ensure you have all documentation, including medical records, evidence of the accident scene, and witness statements. Contact Generali Global Assistance, VRBO’s insurance provider, to initiate the claims process. Your attorney can assist with this, ensuring all paperwork is correctly filed and deadlines are met.
Safety Measures and Regulations
VRBO properties must adhere to safety regulations to protect guests. These include:
- Regular Inspections: Vacation rentals in New Jersey must undergo regular inspections for fire safety and property maintenance. These inspections ensure that the property meets all safety standards required by law.
- Compliance with Local Laws: Property owners must comply with local regulations governing short-term rentals. This includes obtaining the necessary permits and ensuring the property is safe for occupancy.
Understanding Homeowner’s Insurance
The type of insurance a property owner holds can impact the claims process. Homeowners using their properties as short-term rentals might need commercial insurance, which offers broader coverage compared to standard homeowner’s insurance. This can include protection against claims related to guest injuries, though specifics vary by policy.
When Additional Coverage Is Needed
In cases of severe injuries, VRBO’s million-dollar policy may not be sufficient. Catastrophic injuries requiring long-term medical care and resulting in significant life changes can quickly exceed this amount. This is where an attorney’s expertise becomes invaluable, helping to secure additional compensation through legal channels if necessary.
Ensuring Fair Compensation
An experienced attorney will assess the full extent of your injuries and related expenses, gather evidence, and represent you in negotiations with insurance companies. They can also represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. This comprehensive approach ensures that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and any related financial losses.
Moving Forward After an Injury
Accidents can significantly disrupt your life, especially when they occur during what should be a relaxing vacation. If you’ve been injured at a VRBO in New Jersey, taking prompt action is crucial to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. Proper medical care, thorough documentation, and professional legal assistance are essential steps in this process.
Contact MyNJInjuryLawyer
Have questions? Need answers about an injury that occurred in New Jersey as a result of someone else’s negligence? If you or a loved one suffered an injury in an accident, you should contact an attorney familiar with handling these claims. My NJ Injury Lawyer Howard P. Lesnik, Esq. offers free strategy sessions to address any issue or questions you may have about your injury, medical bills or your accident claim.
Please contact NJ Injury Lawyer Howard Lesnik, Esq., immediately if you were involved in a pedestrian accident and were injured or suffered damages. I personally handle NJ personal injury cases on a regular basis. Please contact me now by email, by phoning 908.264.7701, or by completing the form to the right to schedule your complimentary 30-minute strategy session. Contact Us Today for a free consultation.
