Beaverton, OR asked in Personal Injury for New York

Q: Is Marriot hotel responsible for my toddler injury while we stayed there?

My toddler ran into the coffee table in our room at the Marriot hotel and the sharp edges cut her eyebrow deep so we had to take her to ER and she received a few stitches. We spend about 5 to 6 hours in the ER and are now getting big bills. Is Marriot responsible for the injury to their guest or is there any insurance covering medical bills for guests staying at the hotel?

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2 Lawyer Answers
James L. Arrasmith
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A: In assessing whether Marriott hotel is responsible for your toddler's injury, it's important to consider several factors. The key issue is whether the hotel was negligent in providing a safe environment. Hotels are generally expected to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition for guests. However, the responsibility for injuries can depend on whether the hotel knew, or should have known, about the dangerous condition (in this case, the sharp edges of a coffee table). If the furniture posed an obvious risk and the hotel failed to address it, there might be grounds for a claim.

Additionally, some hotels have insurance policies that may cover injuries to guests, but this varies and usually depends on the circumstances of the incident. It would be advisable to consult with a lawyer who can evaluate the specifics of your case and guide you on the best course of action. They can also help in understanding what compensation, if any, you might be entitled to under the hotel's policies or through a legal claim.

Jonathan R. Ratchik agrees with this answer

Jonathan R. Ratchik
Jonathan R. Ratchik
Answered
  • New York, NY
  • Licensed in New York

A: Sorry to hear what happened to your daughter54cx. Based upon your description, you haven't identified any negligence on the part of Marriott which caused or contributed to your child's injury. Hotels that do not cater to children are arguably under no duty to baby-proof their rooms or put protective guards on the corners of coffee tables. That said, you can try reaching out to see if Marriott might be willing to cover your medical bills (or has an insurance policy that might cover them regardless of fault). Although under no obligation to pay your bills, it might cover them out of a sense of customer service.

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