Did you or anyone in your family suffer injuries form a bed bug infestation while you were staying at a Texas hotel, motel, resort, apartment, or vacation home? Bed bugs are a common source of injury and property damage at rentals throughout the state of Texas, and many of these incidents are due to negligence by the property owner.
Owners of residential and commercial properties have a legal duty to provide a safe environment for their guests, and this includes taking care of pests that can cause bodily harm and emotional distress. But landlords and hotel owners often fail to take reasonable measures when they are notified of or see the signs of bed bugs on the premises.
If you or your loved ones are suffering due to bed bug bites, bed bug-related complications, and /or property damage, don’t hesitate to contact our law firm. We are thoroughly familiar with Texas bed bug laws for paying guests at rental properties, and we are more than ready to recover the compensation you deserve.
Bed Bugs at Hotels and Other Rented Lodgings
Bed bugs are common pests that hide in all types of crevices in people’s homes and public spaces. In a rented room, suite, or apartment, you will often find bed bugs hiding in bed frames, under mattresses and rugs, in people’s suitcases, under couch cushions, and even behind walls and floorboards.
The point is, bed bugs like to hide in small, dark crevices, and because they are nocturnal, they come out at night when people are generally asleep. At that point, they are free to bite and feed on human victims and scurry back to their hiding place. In the morning, people wake up with itchy, red bumps and droplets of blood on their skin or bed sheets.
Property owners must contact an exterminator immediately when they notice the signs of an infestation. These insects are resistant to common household pesticides, so a specialized treatment from a professional exterminator is required. The treatment can be quite expensive, especially for large properties like motels and hotels. This is why a lot of owners try to put off an extermination visit, but this is against the law, and those are bitten by bed bugs have the right to seek monetary restitution.
Damages Caused by Bed Bugs
The considerable, long-term damage caused by bed bugs is the reason why there are strict city ordinances, building codes, and health department regulations that deal strictly with these pests. As with many bug infestations, the damage to your property can be extensive, and many people are forced to throw away their clothes, bedding, furniture, and other personal possessions.
The bigger issue, however, is the impact on your physical and psychological health. Some people notice bite marks immediately and have allergic reactions that can only be explained by a bed bug infestation. Others may not see the marks for days, or even weeks, after being exposed to bed bugs. Because the bites are notoriously itchy, many people scratch the area, which increases the risk of infection. Once the bite mark is infected, it can lead to permanent scarring – a lifelong reminder of the horrific experience.
Many victims also struggle with emotional trauma from having to live in an environment with bed bugs. The development of mental health issues like anxiety, phobias, depression, and panic attacks among those exposed to a bed bug infestation have been studied by credible organizations. Thus, emotional distress is another form of compensation that may be available to you from a bed bug injury claim.
The extent of your injuries and the harm you suffered must be evaluated by an experienced Texas bed bug lawyer as soon as possible. That way, you can build a solid case against the property owner and obtain payment to cover your financial losses.
Texas Bed Bug Laws
Bed bug infestations are a public health nuisance under the Texas Health and Safety Code Section 341.011. That means anyone who becomes aware of bed bugs on their property has a legal obligation to resolve the problem immediately.
According to Texas housing codes, hotel and motel owners, as well as landlords must prioritize the health and well-being of their tenants in the event of a bed bug infestation. If they knowingly fail to take care of an infestation, they can face criminal and civil consequences, including a lawsuit from the affected tenants / guests.
Filing a Bed Bug Claim
Most people are unfamiliar with the process of filing an injury claim against a negligent landlord or property owner. That’s why it’s best to contact a bed bug lawsuit attorney who can explain your rights and walk you through the legal process. Your lawyer can also handle all communications between the property owner and their insurance company, thereby ensuring that your rights are protected at all times. Our legal experts can also provide you with an accurate value of your case and fight to recover the highest possible settlement. For more information on the bed bug laws in Texas and the damages you can seek from a lawsuit, contact our office today.
How Much Time Do I have to File a Texas Bed Bug Claim?
Aside from having a clear understanding of the bed bug laws in Texas, you must also keep in mind that all legal cases must be filed within the statute of limitations. Generally, you have 2 years to file a claim for personal injury and property damage, starting from the date of injury. If you are past the 2-year limit, you will lose the right to sue for monetary compensation. Don’t miss the deadline to file a Texas bed bug infestation claim. Reach out to us at your earliest opportunity and schedule a free case evaluation.
We are Here to Help
The legal team of Bed Bug Legal Group is here 24/7 to answer all your questions and help you formulate a plan of action. We are thoroughly experienced in bed bug injury claims against landlords and business owners in Texas, and a proven track record of settlements and trial verdicts. You can count on us to fight tirelessly on your behalf and secure the resolution you need and deserve.
We offer free legal services under the Zero Fee Guarantee, a policy where the cost of legal representation is charged to the negligent party. As a result, we never ask you to pay upfront if you decide to hire us. In addition, we only get paid by recovering your settlement, so there is no loss to you whatsoever if we fail to win your case.
Contact Bed Bug Legal Group today and learn about your rights and legal options during a free consultation.
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