Running a hospitality business is one of the most rewarding jobs in the world since you get to help people have a fantastic vacation, dinner, or just a night out with friends. Unfortunately, the nature of the industry exposes you to many lawsuits that could be costly to fix and may even permanently damage your business’ reputation. This is where a hospitality expert, trained in assisting you avoid lawsuits, comes in.
Most lawsuits can be avoided just by doing your job well. Still, it’s important to be aware of some of these lawsuits to know what precautions you should put in place and take steps to avoid legal troubles. Here are some of the common lawsuits in the hospitality industry:
Intentional tort/premises liability
Bars and nightclubs are always at risk of personal injury liabilities because of the amount of alcohol involved, along with the large number of people that are usually present. Clients that are injured by bouncers or security guards can file an intentional tort as well as a premises liability against the bar or club since the incident happened within the business’ property. If a client gets injured because of an employee’s negligence then a premises liability can also be filed. Things such as a wet floor that’s not immediately taken care of and causes a client to slip and fall is an example of negligence.
Hotel assault
The wild incident that Kim Kardashian had with robbers recently at a Paris hotel has been widely publicized. But it’s important to note that she’s not the first person who has experienced this. Robbery, assault, and even rape have happened at hotels many times over the years. These incidents don’t only destroy the hotel’s reputation but will also make it liable in a hotel assault lawsuit. Because of these, hotel owners and managers should consult with a hospitality expert. This expert can help determine what and who to invest in. Things like modern security equipment, and ensuring employees know how to use it, as well as hiring skillful and experienced security guards.
Disabilities Act lawsuits
More than 30 hotels in Arizona were sued in 2016 because they did not comply with the Disabilities Act. Specifically, these hotels did not have wheelchair ramps, pool lifts, and other features. These amenities are imperative for making their premises more accessible to those who have disabilities. These lawsuits can cause hotels to spend thousands of dollars on settling the lawsuits. To avoid this, hotel owners and managers can consult with a hospitality expert to familiarize themselves with the Disabilities Act. It is very important to be sure that their premises are in compliance with it.
General negligence
General negligence lawsuits indicate that a business has not exercised reasonable care in protecting its clients. In terms of the restaurant business, this can mean that a dining establishment has not created a safe and secure environment for their patrons to dine in. It could also mean that it hasn’t maintained a clean and hygienic kitchen. Unfortunately, it may mean that the restaurant has been serving food that has caused its patrons to experience food poisoning or other health problems. It’s important to stay up to date with local and national health codes. Taking basic precautions to ensure the restaurants’ premises — and the food and drinks it serves — are always up to par.
Lawsuits are part of the hospitality industry, but this doesn’t mean they’re welcome in your business. Get in touch with a hospitality expert like Perry Group to learn about how to avoid lawsuits. Our consultants strive to keep your business on the right side of the law. If, for some reason we can’t help, we’ll point you in the direction of a hospitality expert company that can.
Contact us Today at: (800) 580-3950; Continue Viewing Our Website
