Have you ever looked up a hotel or apartment building on a bedbug registry prior to renting a room or signing a lease? Unfortunately, many people have no idea that these registries exist. So, they sign the paperwork or book the room and head to their destination on the assumption that the place is free of bed bugs. But a clean and orderly space does not mean that a room, suite, or apartment doesn’t have a bed bug infestation on the premises.
Were you and your loved ones subjected to a bed bug infestation in Tennessee? Our law firm is ready to help, with decades of experience in bed bug injury and property damage claims. We serve clients in all cities throughout Tennessee, including Memphis, Clarksville, Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga. Don’t hesitate to give us a call if you would like more information on suing for bed bugs on a rental property.
Bed Bug Infestations in Tennessee
The name “bed bugs” may give off the impression that these are cute, harmless critters, but that’s far from the truth, as anyone will tell you who has had to endure a bed bug infestation. Bed bugs are nocturnal insects that come out at night to feed on the blood of humans and animals. In the daytime, they typically hide in places like bed frames, under mattresses and rugs, and between sofa cushions. Essentially, they hide where it’s dark and easy to conceal themselves, which is why you may also encounter bed bugs in luggage and boxes that have been in storage for long periods of time.
Bed bugs leave red, swollen and itchy bite marks all over your body. Many people – especially children – scratch the bites to relieve the itchy sensation, and this can lead to infections and permanent scars. Others have serious allergic reactions to bed bug saliva, and they may need immediate hospitalization due to complications like anaphylaxis. These insects can also cause mental suffering in the form of PTSD, anxiety, insomnia, and various phobias.
If negligence by a property owner or landlord caused you harm and suffering, you have the right to file a personal injury claim and recover the losses you sustained through no fault of your own.
Tennessee’s Bed Bug Laws
First, it’s important to note that Tennessee does not have statutes that are specific to bed bugs and infestations in hotels and motels. However, owners of such businesses have a duty of care to guests and visitors. That means known hazards, like bed bug infestations, must be resolved by the owner in order to ensure a safe environment for whoever is renting the room. So, they must immediately address any and all complaints of bed bugs on the premises, or face legal consequences if people end up with injuries or damage to their personal belongings.
Landlords also have a legal obligation to provide tenants with reasonably safe and sanitary accommodations. The laws that apply to landlords fall under the warranty of habitability, a legal principle that defines what it means to live in a clean and safe property. Thus, if there is a bed bug infestation in the apartment, the owner has a duty to resolve the problem, like contacting a professional extermination company.
Steps to Filing a Bed Bug Injury Case in Tennessee
If you are interested in pursuing compensation from a bed bug injury claim, there are steps you should take right from the start in order to build a solid foundation for your case. Failing to take certain actions can hurt your chances of reaching a successful outcome and obtaining a fair amount of damages.
While there are many steps to filing a bed bug case in a Tennessee, we will go over the initial steps that will lay the groundwork for a lawsuit. The rest of the work should be handled by an experienced bed bug attorney to ensure the best possible outcome.
Whether you suffered from bed bugs in Tennessee motel, hotel, or apartment, make sure to:
- Take pictures of any injuries that you suffered (bed bug bites, for example)
- Look for any and all signs of bed bugs in the room, apartment, etc. and take photos or video footage
- After documenting your injuries and evidence of an infestation, send a written statement to your landlord, hotel management, etc. to let them know about the bed bugs and how they affected your health and personal property.
- Make sure to go to a hospital so that you have medical records as proof of being injured
- Start a collection of evidence, such as medical records, proof of lost time from your job, itemized list and value of lost / damaged property, witness statements (if you encounter others in the hotel or apartment building that have bed bugs in their unit), and all communications between you and the responsible party concerning the infestation.
How Long Do I have to File a Bed Bug Lawsuit in Tennessee?
Under Tennessee law, all personal injury lawsuits must be filed no later than 1 year from the date of injury / incident. If you think about it, a year can go by very quickly, especially when you are trying to recover your health and finances after a traumatic event. To ensure that your right to compensation is protected, we urge you to get in touch with us immediately. A bed bug injury lawyer can evaluate your case, gather strong and compelling evidence, and file the necessary paperwork all within the statute of limitations.
Contact Bed Bug Legal Group
Those who are suffering from the effects of a bed bug infestation need reliable advice on their rights and legal options. That’s exactly what we offer at Bed Bug Legal Group, from a team of lawyers who are ready to fight for you and the compensation you deserve.
We promise that you will not pay one cent out of pocket, as we work strictly on contingency. As a part of your settlement, the party at fault will pay for the cost of legal fees. That means we make $0 unless we bring you compensation from a successful claim.
If you are interested in speaking with a Tennessee bed bug lawsuit attorney, contact our office as soon as possible.
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