Whether traveling for business or pleasure, we expect hotels to meet specific standards, such as clean rooms, locks that work and a well-maintained property.
Hotels have a responsibility to protect their guests from potential harm. This obligation extends across all operations, from physical infrastructure to services provided. But what does this duty entail?
Premises liability laws
According to Washington State’s premises liability laws, property owners, including hotel operators, have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe and to warn guests of any non-obvious dangers they might encounter.
Some common areas of concern include:
- Physical infrastructure, including buildings, pools, gyms and elevators, should be well-maintained and free from hazards that could cause injury
- Adequate security measures, such as surveillance cameras, security personnel, and secure room locks, are essential in protecting guests from theft, assault and other crimes
- Health and safety protocols to protect guests from potential exposure to infectious diseases
- Emergency response plans for situations such as fires, natural disasters, or medical emergencies
To ensure guest safety, hotels can adopt the following practices:
- Routine checks, preventative maintenance and prompt repairs can prevent accidents before they happen.
- Training for staff on safety protocols, emergency response and guest interactions
- Informing guests about safety measures, emergency exits and procedures contributes to a safer and more informed guest experience.
Furthermore, staying informed about emerging safety and health concerns is crucial to maintaining a safe environment.
Hotels have an undeniable obligation to ensure the safety and security of their guests. However, some hotel operators fail to maintain such an environment, thus resulting in a guest’s injury. When someone is injured due to another’s negligence, that individual must seek compensation for their pain and suffering.