The Emerald Coast is widely known for its beautiful beaches and vacation homes, attracting families from across the country seeking a relaxing getaway. Whether staying in luxurious condos or charming beach cottages, vacationers often expect their rental experience to be safe and enjoyable. However, accidents can occur, and falls from balconies or stairs are among the most common injuries reported in short-term rental properties. Unfortunately, when these incidents occur, families may find themselves uncertain of how to properly document the situation to protect their rights. Understanding what to do in the event of such accidents can be crucial in preserving evidence and potentially pursuing compensation.
This guide will explain the steps families should take immediately following an injury caused by a fall from a balcony or stairs at a short-term rental on the Emerald Coast. Documenting the details of the incident, including photographs, medical records, and witness statements, can help ensure that a victim’s case is well-supported if legal action is pursued.
Why Balconies and Stairs Pose a Risk in Short-Term Rentals 
Short-term rentals, often listed on platforms such as Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking.com, are a popular accommodation option for travelers. These properties, however, can present unique safety challenges that may not be immediately apparent. Unlike hotels, which are subject to strict safety regulations and inspections, short-term rental properties are often privately owned, and their maintenance and safety standards can vary significantly.
Balconies and stairs are common features in many vacation homes, but they can also be sources of significant risk. Properties located in older buildings or houses may have stairs with worn-out treads, unstable railings, or missing safety features such as non-slip mats. Similarly, balconies may have inadequate guardrails or other structural issues that put guests at risk, especially if they are not properly maintained. Families, particularly those with young children or elderly members, may not realize the dangers posed by these features until it’s too late.
Katherine Rinaldo
Matthew Powell
Don Truskett
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Understanding these risks is important for families staying in short-term rentals, as they are often more vulnerable to such accidents than they would be in more regulated, commercial accommodations.
What Families Should Do After a Fall Incident
When a family member suffers a fall from a balcony or stairs in a rental property, it’s important to take immediate action to document the event. The steps taken right after the fall can have a significant impact on the outcome of any legal claims or insurance discussions that may follow.
Document the Scene Thoroughly
The first thing to do after the fall is to document the scene where the accident occurred. This includes taking clear photographs of the area around the balcony or stairs, focusing on any hazardous conditions that may have contributed to the fall. If the balcony had broken railings or was missing a guardrail entirely, these should be clearly captured. Similarly, if the stairs were uneven, lacked adequate lighting, or had any other unsafe characteristics, these should also be photographed from different angles to provide a comprehensive view.
It’s also important to take pictures that show the surrounding area, especially if the fall led to a dangerous situation (such as a fall onto a hard surface like concrete or rocks). This documentation can help illustrate the conditions that led to the accident and will be crucial when proving negligence or unsafe property maintenance.
Photograph the Injuries
If you or a loved one has suffered visible injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or broken bones, make sure to document them as well. Take photographs of the injured areas of the body immediately after the fall, capturing different angles. If the injuries worsen over time, it’s helpful to take additional pictures to show how the injuries progressed. Time-stamped photos can act as strong evidence in any potential legal proceedings, particularly if the injuries were severe and required medical treatment.
Verdicts & Settlements
Get Medical Attention and Keep Records
In the aftermath of a fall, getting medical attention should always be a priority. Even if the injury seems minor at first, it’s important to seek professional medical care to rule out more serious issues, such as concussions or internal injuries. When visiting the hospital or a medical provider, ensure that all treatments, diagnoses, prescriptions, and medical bills are properly documented. These records will be critical for proving the extent of the injuries and the medical costs associated with the accident.
Additionally, keep track of any follow-up appointments, rehabilitation sessions, or other medical care needed after the initial treatment. For serious injuries, the cost of rehabilitation, physical therapy, or even lost wages from time off work could be part of any compensation claim.
Witness Statements Are Key
If there were any witnesses to the fall, it is important to obtain their contact information and ask if they would be willing to provide a written statement. Eyewitness testimony can be invaluable in supporting the details of what happened. The witness may be able to provide additional context or confirm that the fall was caused by unsafe conditions at the property, which can strengthen the case.
Ask for their account of what they saw and ensure they document any unsafe conditions that they noticed before or after the incident. Having multiple perspectives on what caused the fall can be crucial in proving negligence on the part of the property owner or management company.
Keep Records of Communication with the Property Owner
After the incident, it is essential to notify the property owner or the rental company about the fall. Ideally, this should be done in writing, either by email or through the platform where the booking was made. In your communication, explain the circumstances surrounding the accident and ask for confirmation that they received the report.
If the owner or company acknowledges the unsafe condition that led to the fall, keep a copy of that communication. This may show that the owner was aware of the problem but did not fix it, which can support your case if you choose to pursue a claim.
Review the Rental Agreement
It’s also important to review the rental agreement for any clauses regarding property maintenance or liability. The rental agreement may outline the owner’s responsibility to maintain the safety of the property and could specify if they are liable for accidents that occur due to their negligence. If there is a disclaimer stating that the owner is not responsible for accidents, you should carefully evaluate whether this impacts your case. While disclaimers may limit liability in some instances, they cannot absolve an owner of responsibility for known hazards that are not addressed in a timely manner.
The Legal Process and How a Lawyer Can Help
If the injuries are severe or if you believe that the property owner was negligent in maintaining the property, you may want to consider pursuing a legal claim. A lawyer specializing in premises liability can help you understand your legal options, such as seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
An experienced attorney will know how to investigate the incident, identify the responsible parties, and collect all the necessary evidence to strengthen your case. In many cases, a lawyer will also assist with negotiations with insurance companies or rental platforms, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement for your injuries.
Falls from balconies or stairs in short-term rentals are an unfortunate but serious risk. Families can protect their rights by acting swiftly to document the details of the accident. By gathering photographic evidence, medical records, witness statements, and communication with the rental company, you increase your chances of successfully seeking compensation for any injuries sustained.
The Keenan Law Firm is here to help families navigate the legal process and ensure that they receive the justice they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a short-term rental accident, don’t hesitate to contact our team for assistance.