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Short-Term Rental Injury

Legal Guidance for Survivors of Short-Term Rental Accidents

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Short-Term Rental

Short-Term Rental

At Ferraro Law, we understand that injuries sustained in a short-term rental property—such as an Airbnb accident or a VRBO property mishap—can bring unexpected medical expenses, emotional distress, and uncertainty. Whether the injury occurred due to poor maintenance, negligence by property managers, or other hazardous conditions, you deserve legal relief that acknowledges your losses. Our experienced attorney team is dedicated to helping victims navigate the short-term rental market and pursue a fair settlement that addresses medical costs, lost wages, and the full range of consequences following a vacation rental accident.

By combining empathetic client care with a proven track record in premises liability, our personal injury lawyers offer the clarity, guidance, and fierce advocacy you need. If you or a loved one has been hurt while staying in a rental property, we are here to provide unwavering legal representation—so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.

Understanding Short-Term Rental Injuries & Their Impact

Understanding Short-Term Rental Injuries & Their Impact

What Are Short-Term Rental Injuries?

Short-term rentals have surged in popularity, with property owners listing everything from beach cottages to high-rise apartments. However, when negligence leads to unsafe conditions, unsuspecting guests can suffer serious injuries. These personal injuries might include severe slip-and-falls on wet surfaces, broken staircases, faulty smoke alarms leading to fire-related harm, or even property damage causing emotional distress. Proving negligence can be complex, especially as multiple parties—like the Airbnb host, rental property managers, or insurance company—may be involved.

Common Causes of Vacation Rental Accidents

Broken handrails, loose flooring, or exposed wiring that poses a serious risk to guests.

Failing to install functional locks, proper lighting, or alarm systems, which can lead to injuries from intruders or other hazards.

Missing smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, or properly labeled emergency exits.

Lack of fencing, faulty pool drains, and inadequate signage can result in near-drownings or other severe injuries.

When these conditions exist, injury victims may have grounds to bring legal action against the property owner, short-term rental hosts, or other responsible parties in the short-term rental market. Determining liability is vital in seeking compensation for the physical and emotional toll these accidents cause.

40 Years of Fierce Representation

40 Years of Fierce Representation

Since 1985, Ferraro Law has developed a deep understanding of premises liability and personal injury claim strategies. Our law firm has a proven track record in handling complex cases against negligent property owners, including those who fail to maintain their short-term vacation rentals. Over the decades, we have honed our approach by collaborating with safety inspectors, medical professionals, and legal experts to thoroughly investigate how an injury occurred and whether the rental property was properly maintained. Our four decades of service reflect both legal skill and an unwavering commitment to securing compensation for our clients. From minor injuries to severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment, our legal process is designed to uncover every angle of a case, gather evidence such as medical records and witness statements, and build a compelling argument in support of financial compensation. With Ferraro Law, you gain a team that knows the short term rental industry, understands insurance coverage nuances, and isn’t afraid to stand up for your legal rights.
How We Can Help You

How We Can Help You

Assessment & Consultation

We start with a free consultation to learn about the circumstances surrounding your short term rental injuries. During this initial discussion, we examine the property owner’s responsibilities, the presence (or absence) of insurance coverage, and any potential negligence that led to your personal injuries. We also explore relevant documents like rental agreements, medical reports, and official inspection records.

Tailored Legal Strategies

No two personal injury cases are the same. Our attorneys tailor their approach based on the unique facts—whether you suffered a slip-and-fall on an Airbnb property due to a slippery deck, or encountered electrical hazards at a VRBO property. We analyze how and why the injury occurred, gathering critical documentation to prove liability. By focusing on your specific needs, we aim to secure a fair settlement that covers medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Ongoing Support & Communication

We understand that coping with serious injuries or emotional distress after a vacation rental accident can be overwhelming. That’s why we prioritize clear communication, keeping you informed about your claim, explaining the legal process, and providing reassurance throughout. By handling the complexities of negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing legal action, we give you the space to focus on healing and moving forward.

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What We Handle

What We Handle

Ferraro Law represent clients across a wide spectrum of short-term rental claims and scenarios:

Icon Key

Premises Liability for Short-Term Rentals

We aim to hold short-term rental hosts and property managers accountable for hazards in vacation properties.

Negligent Property Maintenance

Addressing cases where structural issues or poor upkeep result in personal injuries, from broken stairs to faulty smoke detectors.

Airbnb Accident Claims

Pursuing claims against an Airbnb host or the platform’s insurance coverage if negligence on the property caused injuries.

VRBO Injury Cases

Evaluating liability in VRBO property incidents, including slip-and-falls, pool accidents, or other hazards that lead to severe injuries.

Rental Property Disputes & Legal Action

When property owners fail to meet basic safety standards, we fight to ensure injury victims aren’t left with mounting medical bills.

Ferraro Law is leading the charge against those harmed by short-term rental injuries.
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Deciding Whether to Hire a Short-Term Rental Injury Lawyer

Deciding Whether to Hire a Short-Term Rental Injury Lawyer

After a serious injury in a short-term rental property, you might wonder if hiring a personal injury attorney is necessary. It’s important to remember that premises liability claims can be quite complex—especially when short term rental hosts, third-party property managers, or an insurance company contest liability. Without experienced legal guidance, you may overlook key deadlines, miss valuable evidence, or settle for far less compensation than you truly deserve.

Partnering with Ferraro Law means leveraging our knowledge, resources, and proven strategies to show how negligence leads to injuries and why you are entitled to legal relief. We manage every step, from gathering medical records and building a case to negotiating a fair settlement or preparing for trial if necessary.

Short-Term Rental Injuries: Compensation for Victims

Short-Term Rental Injuries: Compensation for Victims

A successful short-term rental injury claim aims to secure crucial financial support to assist victims in managing the long-term consequences of their injuries and related impacts.

Compensation may cover:

Medical Treatment & Ongoing Care

Covering present and future surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any additional therapy.

Lost Wages & Future Earnings

Accounting for reduced earning capacity if you can’t work due to severe injuries.

Pain and Suffering

Recognizing both the physical pain and emotional distress stemming from the accident.

Property Damage

If personal belongings were damaged during the incident.

Punitive Damages (in extreme cases)

Targeting property owners or short term rental hosts whose gross negligence endangered guests.

The loss of a loved one is irreplaceable, but compensation can offer some relief by covering funeral expenses, easing financial burdens, and providing support for grieving family members.

What to Look For in a Short-Term Rental Attorney

What to Look For in a Short-Term Rental Attorney

Selecting the right attorney for a short-term rental case is a critical choice. When evaluating potential counsel, consider:

Relevant Experience

Choose a law firm with knowledge of the short-term rental market, who understands common pitfalls like unsafe premises, inadequate insurance coverage, and complicated host-platform relationships.

Compassion & Communication

A trusted personal injury law firm understands that injury victims deserve to have their voices heard. Their attorneys provide clear, compassionate guidance, helping clients navigate the legal process with confidence.

Resources & Reach

From hiring accident reconstruction experts to analyzing property maintenance records, choose an attorney who has the capacity to gather evidence effectively, whether your injury occurred at a local Airbnb or a distant VRBO property.

Proven Track Record

A dedicated premises liability law firm approaches each case with a proven track record of successful verdicts and settlements, reflecting a strong commitment to delivering high-quality legal representation.

No Upfront Costs

Look for a law firm that operates on a contingency fee basis. This arrangement means you pay nothing unless they secure a successful outcome, easing financial pressure and allowing you to focus on your health.

What to Expect When You Partner with Ferraro Law

What to Expect When You Partner with Ferraro Law

Finding the right short-term rental liability law firm involves more than just evaluating credentials—it’s about finding a team that places your needs first and understands the legal process from start to finish. At Ferraro Law, we believe in delivering more than legal advice; we offer genuine support, strategic planning, and practical guidance, making sure you never feel adrift in a complex system.

We focus on the specific details of your case, reviewing the rental income documents and property owner agreements that may be relevant to your claim. Our aim is to ensure every angle is covered—so you can concentrate on your recovery.

Our attorneys have worked on diverse short-term rental accident cases, investigating how property damage, medical expenses, and emotional trauma intersect. This depth of experience sets us apart from any other law firm you might encounter. Our attorneys have worked on diverse short term rental accident cases, investigating how property damage, medical expenses, and emotional trauma intersect. This depth of experience sets us apart from any other law firm you might encounter.

We provide guidance from your first consultation through trial preparation, keeping you informed about your legal options and advising whether a settlement offer aligns with your needs or if additional legal action is required.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we secure a positive outcome. This client-centric approach relieves the financial burden of hiring a personal injury attorney so you can focus on treatment.

We break down the legal process in plain language—explaining how to gather evidence, how to handle medical reports, and how to document injuries sustained—so you can make informed decisions every step of the way.

Though based in Florida, Ferraro Law assists clients across the country, drawing on our extensive premises liability experience to protect your legal rights wherever your short-term rental injury may have occurred.

Our combination of experience and compassion sets us apart as one of the leading law firms in the country. We work to help you feel supported and understood, providing dedicated representation to guide you through this difficult time.

Client Experiences

Client Experiences

When individuals confront short-term rental and premises liability claims—facing intricate insurance disputes, financial strain, and emotional challenges—they turn to Ferraro Law for effective legal solutions.Collaborating with insurance specialists and medical professionals, our firm works to build strong cases with the goal of holding responsible parties accountable, pursuing compensation for medical care and treatment, and helping clients find stability during a challenging time.

“You not only told us it was going to be okay, you showed us that it’s going to be okay.”

SUZANNE

ASBESTOS & MESOTHELIOMA

5 Stars for The Ferraro Law Firm! My experience with Attorney James L. Ferraro Jr. and the entire staff at The Ferraro Law Firm was beyond my expectations. Every time I called my questions were answered and I never felt rushed. I am very grateful for their hard work and care. I would highly recommend them to others.

5 Stars for The Ferraro Law Firm! My experience with Attorney James L. Ferraro Jr. and the entire staff.

Linda K.

It has been 12 years since my father passed away. Every time this anniversary comes, it always overwhelms me with a mixture of emotions. On one side, just like most people, I start to reminisce about the great times we had as a family and how I miss it so much. On the other side, I can’t help but remember the pain and suffering he endured the last several months of his life. I believe closure sits right in the middle of these emotions. Closure is always hard when someone you love passes away. To us, closure felt unattainable. It was hard because we did not understand why he was taken from us so soon. Collectively as a family we felt that he never needed to suffer the way that he did. When I start to think about closure, part of me thinks about James Ferraro Jr. and The Ferraro Law Firm. My mother found the law firm while my father was still alive. She had inquired about possibly finding out, and holding accountable, those individuals and/or companies that had contributed to my father’s illness. They went to work for my mother immediately and inevitably helped her find a little piece of closure that she so desperately needed following his death. As I have always said, no amount of money could ever replace my father. However, because of the tireless work of James Jr. and the rest of the firm, my mother was able to move forward with her life. She moved forward knowing she would be okay, our family would be okay, and that those responsible were held accountable. Fast-forward to today and I still think about James Jr. and the firm during this anniversary. I cannot stress enough the amount of appreciation my family and I have for them and what they did for us.

It has been 12 years since my father passed away. Every time this anniversary comes.


MIAMI, FL

a

David, we thank God everyday for you coming into our lives. We wish you all the love, health, wealth and happiness and the best to come.

David, we thank God everyday for you coming into our lives. We wish you all the love.

S.L. & Y.L.

MIAMI, FL

a

You have brought joy (to say nothing about funds) to our humble home. You continue to act on my behalf relentlessly and I thank you for that.

You have brought joy (to say nothing about funds) to our humble home. You continue to act on my behalf.

B.G.

The Steps Your Short-Term Rental Injury Attorney Will Take

The Steps Your Short-Term Rental Injury Attorney Will Take

Once you decide to hire a short-term rental injury attorney, they will guide you through a structured, step-by-step process: 

1

Initial Consultation

Your lawyer begins with an initial consultation—examining the circumstances surrounding your injury, any relevant rental property agreements, and the seriousness of your personal injuries.

2

Investigation & Evidence Gathering

Your team collaborates with property inspectors, medical experts, and other professionals to gather evidence of negligence, property damage, or safety violations. If the injury occurred at an Airbnb property or VRBO property, they review both host liability policies and any platform-specific insurance coverage.

3

Claim Preparation & Filing

Once your lawyer has a clear picture, they draft comprehensive legal documents that detail the injuries sustained, medical records, lost wages, and the negligence or unsafe conditions that caused your harm. All required documentation is prepared and submitted in accordance with the applicable deadlines.

4

Negotiation & Settlement Discussions

They engage directly with the insurance company or short-term rental hosts, striving to secure fair compensation for current and future medical expenses, emotional distress, and financial losses. If a fair settlement is not offered, they are fully prepared to take the case to trial.

5

Trial Preparation (If Needed)

Should negotiations stall, your attorneys build a compelling case for court—gathering testimony from expert witnesses, finalizing all legal reports, and highlighting key proof of how negligence leads to your injuries.

6

Ongoing Support & Communication

Even after your claim is resolved, they're there to support you—answering questions, addressing concerns, and providing any legal guidance you may need as you move forward.

Meet Your Short-Term Rental Attorneys 

Meet Your Short-Term Rental Attorneys 

Learn More About Our Team

In short-term rental liability cases, Ferraro Law’s attorneys understand that no legal outcome can fully undo the life-altering consequences of these preventable accidents. Our team approaches each claim with compassion, dedication, and the depth of experience required to handle the complexities of short-term rental litigation. Their mission is to secure fair compensation, acknowledge the significant challenges you face, and help you regain stability and peace of mind as you move forward.

Jose L. Becerra

Jose focuses on personal injury and product liability litigation, including asbestos, toxic torts, and talcum powder claims. Known for his trial skill and meticulous case workup, he’s helped secure more than $85 million in verdicts for clients across Florida and beyond.

Ignacio J. Segurola

Ignacio brings over 20 years of trial experience in serious injury and wrongful death cases, including medical malpractice and catastrophic crashes. A longtime advocate in South Florida courts and communities, he’s known for his sharp litigation style and results-driven approach.

James L. Ferraro Sr.

For over 40 years, Jim has led high-impact cases against major corporations in asbestos, environmental, and injury litigation—securing billions of dollars and meaningful outcomes for people facing some of life’s toughest challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

01.

Yes. Airbnb injury claims often involve determining liability between the host, Airbnb’s insurance policies, and any separate homeowner’s insurance. We analyze every layer to seek fair compensation for injuries sustained.

02.

Yes. Legal options often depend on where the injury occurred, as local laws and regulations govern short-term rental liability. We handle premises liability cases nationwide, evaluating jurisdiction, applicable laws, and insurance coverage to determine the best course of action for protecting your legal rights.

03.

Property owners or managers often deny fault, but if the rental property wasn’t properly maintained or had unsafe conditions, they may still be held accountable. We gather evidence to prove negligence and fight for financial compensation on your behalf.

04.

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the case, severity of your injuries, and willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. We strive for efficiency but never at the cost of settling for a quick and unfair resolution.

05.

Our proven track record in personal injury and premises liability cases sets us apart. We also offer compassionate legal representation that prioritizes your recovery and secures the best possible outcome.

06.

Absolutely. We represent clients nationwide, collaborating with local counsel when needed. Our extensive experience in complex litigation and specialized claims ensures we can effectively advocate for your rights, no matter where you live.

have more questions?

glossary of key terms

glossary of key terms

Short-Term Rental

A property rented out for temporary use, often through platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. These can range from private homes to vacation condos.

The legal obligation of property owners or managers to maintain safe conditions and prevent hazards that could harm visitors.

Negligence

Failure to exercise reasonable care in maintaining a property, resulting in unsafe conditions that cause injury.

Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Injuries caused by hazards like wet floors, loose rugs, or uneven surfaces, common in poorly maintained rental properties.

Defective Property Conditions

Structural or safety issues such as broken stairs, exposed wiring, or missing smoke detectors that lead to injury.

Lack of functional locks, lighting, or alarm systems, creating risks like intruder-related injuries or other harm.

Medical Expenses

Costs associated with treating injuries, including hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.

Pain and Suffering

Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life following an injury.

Lost Wages

Income lost due to an inability to work while recovering from injuries sustained in a short-term rental property.

Punitive Damages

Financial penalties awarded in extreme cases to punish property owners for egregious negligence and deter similar behavior.

Liability Insurance

Coverage held by property owners or platforms like Airbnb to address claims resulting from guest injuries.

Comparative Negligence

A legal principle where liability is shared between the injured party and the property owner based on their respective contributions to the incident.

Statute of Limitations

The legal deadline to file a claim for injuries, which varies by jurisdiction and case type.

Contingency Fee

An arrangement where attorneys are paid only if the client receives compensation, reducing upfront financial burdens.

Rental Agreement

A contract outlining the terms of a short-term rental, which may contain clauses relevant to liability and safety standards.

What's Next?

what’s next?

If you or someone you care about has experienced a premises liability incident at a short-term rental—facing significant injuries, mounting medical expenses, and an uncertain future—Ferraro Law is ready to assist. We provide a free consultation, take the time to understand your situation, and help you pursue accountability, justice, and the financial support needed to move forward after this avoidable tragedy.

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attorney referral program

attorney referral program

Ferraro Law is nationally renowned for achieving significant settlements in complex personal injury cases. Firms across the country refer clients to Ferraro Law, recognizing our commitment to exceptional service, groundbreaking results, and readiness to tackle cases others find too risky or costly.

Disclaimer: The information on this website and our social media channels is for general purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.

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