Are you a victim of an Airbnb or vacation rental accident in North Carolina? Don't face the aftermath alone. If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe conditions, reach out to Galbavy Law today. Let's turn your setback into a comeback!
Staying at an Airbnb or short-term rental is meant to be a time of relaxation, adventure, or family connection. Whether you are visiting Charlotte for work, renting a cabin in Asheville, or spending time with loved ones in Raleigh or Greensboro, you expect your rental to be safe. Unfortunately, many guests discover that a loose railing, faulty wiring, or poorly maintained property can turn a getaway into a medical emergency. When accidents happen, the consequences can include orthopedic injuries, surgeries, permanent impairments, and an uphill battle with insurance companies.
At Galbavy Law, the firm is dedicated to serving individuals throughout North Carolina who have suffered injuries in vacation rental accidents. David Galbavy, a Board-Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation and a former insurance defense attorney, leads the team. With extensive experience defending insurers in personal injury cases, he possesses a unique understanding of how insurance companies evaluate claims and their strategies for denying or minimizing payouts. Now, our firm applies this knowledge to advocate fiercely for clients who have been injured through no fault of their own, ensuring they receive the support and compensation they deserve.
Our firm has recovered $25 million for clients across the state, with a focus on cases involving serious injuries that require surgery or leave lasting limitations. We understand the law, the tactics used by large corporations like Airbnb, and the challenges families face after an accident. If you or a loved one has been hurt in an Airbnb or short-term rental, a North Carolina Airbnb injury lawyer at Galbavy Law can help you navigate the process and protect your right to fair compensation.
To learn more about how North Carolina courts handle personal injury claims, you can review resources from the North Carolina Judicial Branch, which explain the civil claims process.
Guests who rent through Airbnb or other platforms have the same rights as those who stay in hotels or other lodging facilities. Property owners and hosts are required to maintain safe conditions and warn guests about any hazards that are not immediately apparent. When they fail in this duty, and a guest is injured, the law provides a way to pursue damages through what is known as premises liability.
In Airbnb cases, however, multiple parties may be involved. The host may carry homeowner’s insurance, Airbnb may provide supplemental coverage, and in some cases, third parties such as property managers or maintenance companies may share liability. Navigating these overlapping responsibilities requires an attorney with experience in complex claims.
North Carolina law adds another challenge: contributory negligence. If an insurance company convinces a jury that you were even one percent at fault for your accident, you may be barred from recovering anything. In practice, this means that insurers often argue that you should have noticed a hazard, used a railing, or taken more care. Overcoming this defense takes careful investigation, strong medical evidence, and a legal team committed to protecting your rights.
Your rights include seeking compensation for medical care, lost wages, rehabilitation, permanent impairments, and the emotional toll of an accident that never should have happened. At Galbavy Law, we focus on cases involving orthopedic injuries and other serious conditions because we understand the devastating impact they can have. We work with medical specialists to ensure that future surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term effects are included in your claim.
For an overview of safety and injury-prevention standards that often apply to short-term rental claims, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services offers helpful public resources—most notably the Rules Governing the Sanitation of Lodging Establishments (15A NCAC 18A .1800). These guidelines emphasize the responsibility of property owners to take proactive steps to prevent accidents before they occur.
Being injured in an Airbnb or vacation rental can leave you unsure of where to begin. Unlike traditional car accident cases, where liability is often clearer, these claims involve multiple policies, contracts, and corporate procedures. At Galbavy Law, our role is to guide you through the process step by step, allowing you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal challenges.
The first and most important step is seeking medical care. Your health comes first, and immediate treatment not only protects you physically but also creates the medical documentation that forms the foundation of your case. In orthopedic injury claims, medical records showing fractures, surgical recommendations, or permanent limitations are critical in demonstrating the true scope of your losses.
Once your health is stabilized, the incident should be reported both to the property host and through the Airbnb platform. While Airbnb markets itself as guest-friendly, the company’s priority is protecting its brand and financial interests. Insurance adjusters representing hosts or Airbnb may contact you quickly with requests for statements or early settlement offers. These initial approaches often undervalue the real costs of your injuries. Speaking with an experienced North Carolina Airbnb injury lawyer before responding helps ensure that you do not inadvertently waive your rights.
The investigation stage is where cases are won or lost. Our team gathers every available piece of evidence: photographs of the hazard, witness statements from other guests, inspection records, communications with the host, and, when possible, maintenance reports. In cases involving unsafe stairs, pools, or defective smoke detectors, we may consult safety experts to document how the hazard violated accepted safety practices.
From there, claims are pursued through the relevant insurance coverage. Sometimes this means filing against the host’s homeowner’s insurance. Other times, it means pursuing Airbnb’s supplemental policy. In certain situations, third parties such as property managers or contractors may also be liable. Sorting through these layers requires persistence and a clear understanding of insurance law.
If the insurers refuse to make a fair offer, they are fully prepared to file suit and present the case in court. While litigation may sound intimidating, it is often the only way to compel corporate defendants to take responsibility for their actions. With David Galbavy’s background as a former insurance defense attorney, they understand how insurers prepare their defenses and how to counter them effectively. Throughout the process, we prioritize open and effective communication. Clients are never left wondering what is happening with their case. Every stage is explained clearly, and we ensure you know what to expect next.
To understand why timely treatment and thorough documentation are crucial in injury claims, the CDC highlights how rapid, coordinated care improves survival and long-term outcomes. Early action and diligent follow-up are central to both recovery and building a strong legal record—see CDC Injury Center: Trauma Care.
Airbnb and other short-term rentals can range from luxury condos in Charlotte to cozy cabins in Asheville, beach houses along the coast, and budget apartments near Raleigh or Greensboro. While these properties are advertised as safe escapes, not all owners or hosts meet the safety standards that guests deserve. As a result, many people suffer injuries that could have been prevented with proper maintenance, compliance with safety codes, and responsible oversight. At Galbavy Law, we regularly see how lapses in safety lead to devastating accidents that leave our clients with orthopedic injuries, surgeries, and permanent impairments.
One of the most common causes of injuries in vacation rentals is defective or poorly maintained stairs. Uneven treads, missing handrails, loose carpeting, or dim lighting can easily trigger falls. In North Carolina—where many older properties become short-term rentals—basic safety details are sometimes overlooked. When guests suffer serious falls, the consequences often include fractures, torn ligaments, or spinal injuries requiring surgery. To understand practical stair-safety measures that help prevent these incidents in Airbnb-style properties, see CPSC: Older Consumers Safety Checklist (Home/Stair Fall Prevention).
Slip and fall accidents are another common source of claims. Wet bathroom tiles, slick pool decks, icy walkways in mountain regions like Asheville, and loose rugs in living areas can all cause dangerous falls. These are preventable hazards that property owners have a duty to address and mitigate. Guests who fall on unsafe surfaces frequently suffer hip fractures, head trauma, or long-term mobility issues. For older adults or individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such injuries can have permanent consequences.
Defective or poorly secured balconies and decks also cause severe injuries in North Carolina vacation rentals. A balcony collapse or a railing failure can result in catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage. These cases often involve not only the property owner but also contractors or property managers who failed to inspect or repair structural issues.
Fires and carbon monoxide poisoning are less frequent but perilous hazards. Vacation rentals must have functioning smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms; yet many properties fall short. Missing or malfunctioning devices can turn a minor incident into a fatal event. As emphasized by the U.S. Fire Administration’s Smoke Alarms guidance, properly installed and maintained alarms drastically reduce fatality risk and provide critical early warning—standards every short-term rental should meet..
Swimming pools and hot tubs also present unique risks. Inadequate fencing, missing safety covers, or improper maintenance can result in drownings, infections, or chemical burns. Children are particularly vulnerable when safety measures are ignored. In NC, property owners are legally required to take reasonable steps to prevent such hazards, especially when children are likely to be present.
Other common causes include:
Each of these hazards is preventable when property owners and managers take their responsibilities seriously. Unfortunately, many do not, and guests suffer the consequences. For riders who suffer orthopedic trauma requiring surgeries or who live with permanent impairments, the impact of these injuries lasts a lifetime.
At Galbavy Law, we investigate the root cause of every injury in Airbnb and short-term rentals. Whether the crash happened in a downtown Raleigh loft, a Charlotte townhouse, or a mountain cabin in Asheville, we know how to identify safety violations, secure the evidence, and pursue accountability.
Injuries at Airbnb and other short-term rentals can result in immediate medical bills and long-term costs that persist for months or years. Many victims suffer orthopedic trauma that requires surgery, extended rehabilitation, or permanent adjustments to daily life. North Carolina law allows injured guests to pursue compensation for these losses; however, property owners, management companies, and insurers often resist paying the full value of the claim. A thorough, evidence-driven approach ensures no category of damages is overlooked.
Medical costs are typically the most significant portion of a rental injury claim. These should capture the entire arc of care—not just the first hospital bill.
Future medical costs must be part of your claim—not just today’s bills. Traumatic injuries often lead to ongoing specialty care, rehabilitation, and potential revision surgeries. As outlined by the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s article on Rehabilitation after Traumatic Injury — Economic Evidence, planning credible lifetime care projections requires integrating clinical pathways with cost analyses to reflect long-term needs. At Galbavy Law, we work closely with treating physicians and independent experts to translate those medical trajectories into rigorous future-cost models.
Insurers frequently try to settle by covering only the immediate hospital charges. Claims should also include future medical needs tied to the injury.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has highlighted how long-term care costs create financial burdens for families across the country.
Injuries can disrupt employment immediately and reduce income for years.
Guests injured in Charlotte, Raleigh, or Asheville may be unable to work for months, risking permanent injuries that lower lifetime earnings. Lost wages and earning capacity are key issues. Many Airbnb guests are working professionals or travelers supporting families. Injury-related work stoppages cause financial stress. For those with permanent impairments, returning to the same job or earning level might be impossible. We consult with vocational experts and economists to estimate income loss during recovery and long-term impacts.
Not all harms come with receipts. The law acknowledges genuine human losses resulting from serious injuries.
Even when no vehicle is involved, personal property losses are compensable.
Lasting functional loss is a key value driver in many rental-injury claims.
In limited circumstances, punitive damages may be available to punish and deter reckless or willful misconduct.
When a rental injury leads to loss of life, North Carolina’s wrongful death framework may allow recovery for:
Wrongful death claims are time-sensitive and often involve multiple insurance layers and defendants.
Compensation often depends on available insurance. Multiple policies may apply:
Coverage terms vary; providing timely notice and conducting a careful policy review are essential to avoid claim denials.
Well-documented claims recover more because they prove both fault and impact.
Owners and insurers often minimize claims or shift blame, especially under North Carolina’s contributory negligence rule.
Careful fact development maintains focus on the hazardous condition, not on stereotypes about guests.
Every case is unique. Value depends on the severity of the injury, proof of negligence, available coverage, and the long-term impact on work and daily life. Insurers and property owners tend to focus on the smallest slice of a claim (initial hospital bills) and overlook future care, wage loss, and human damages. Full compensation should reflect the whole story.
At Galbavy Law, we have recovered $25 million for clients across Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, and Asheville. Many of those results involved permanent impairments and catastrophic orthopedic injuries from accidents that never should have happened. Whether your case involves a fall in a rental property, a fire caused by malfunctioning alarms, or structural failures like collapsing decks, we understand how to calculate and demand compensation that meets your current needs and protects you in the future.
Many people assume that if they are injured in an Airbnb or other short-term rental, the process of obtaining compensation will be straightforward. After all, it seems clear that a property owner should be responsible for maintaining safe conditions. Unfortunately, in practice, these cases are far from simple. They involve layers of responsibility, powerful insurers, and North Carolina’s contributory negligence law, which allows an insurance company to deny recovery entirely if they can show the injured person was even one percent at fault.
This strict legal standard is one reason why having an experienced North Carolina Airbnb injury lawyer is so important. Insurers often exploit biases and technicalities to shift partial blame onto guests, arguing that the victim was careless, distracted, or ignoring safety warnings. Without strong advocacy, these arguments can end a case before it begins. At Galbavy Law, we anticipate these tactics and build cases that clearly demonstrate the property owner’s negligence as the actual cause of the injury.
Airbnb injury claims are also complex because of the number of parties involved. Responsibility may rest with the host who failed to fix a broken staircase, the property management company that ignored maintenance complaints, or even Airbnb itself, depending on the specifics of the listing and insurance coverage. Identifying all potentially liable parties requires a detailed investigation and a well-defined legal strategy. Missing one responsible party can mean leaving valuable compensation on the table.
Another critical reason to hire an attorney is the medical complexity of these cases. Many of the injuries we see from Airbnb accidents are orthopedic in nature: fractured hips from falls, spinal injuries from collapsing decks, or traumatic joint injuries requiring surgery. These conditions are not only painful but also life-changing, often leaving victims with permanent impairments. Insurance companies are notorious for undervaluing such claims, offering settlements that cover initial hospital bills but ignore long-term rehabilitation, additional surgeries, or the diminished ability to work. At Galbavy Law, our experience with orthopedic injury claims allows us to present clear medical evidence that reflects both current and future needs.
Local knowledge is another advantage of hiring a lawyer rooted in North Carolina. A fall on a rental property in downtown Charlotte may require navigating a different court system and jury pool than a deck collapse in Raleigh, a slip in Greensboro, or a fire-related injury in Asheville. Interstate accidents along I-40 and I-85 often involve multiple insurers and cross-state legal issues, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Having a lawyer who is familiar with the local courts, judges, and procedures ensures that your case is handled strategically from the outset.
Equally important is the peace of mind that comes with hiring the right lawyer. After an injury, victims and families are focused on recovery, medical treatment, and regaining stability. Trying to negotiate with insurance adjusters, track legal deadlines, and preserve evidence can feel impossible while recovering. By working with Galbavy Law, you shift those burdens to a dedicated legal team. We handle communications with insurers, collect and preserve evidence, coordinate with experts, and keep you informed so that you never feel left in the dark.
Ultimately, selecting an attorney who has experience on both sides of the system offers a significant advantage. Before founding Galbavy Law, he served as an insurance defense attorney. That experience provided me with insider knowledge of how insurers evaluate cases, the weaknesses they look for, and the tactics they use to delay or deny claims. Today, we use that knowledge to benefit my clients, preparing every case with the expectation of those challenges and closing the gaps before they can be exploited.
At Galbavy Law, we know that hiring the right lawyer is about more than just paperwork or negotiations. It is about choosing an advocate who understands the medical realities of serious injuries, the unique challenges of premises liability on Airbnb, and the unforgiving nature of North Carolina’s contributory negligence law. It is about having someone who treats your case as personally as you do. That is the difference our firm brings to every client we represent.
When you are injured in an Airbnb or another short-term rental, the choice of attorney matters more than most people realize. Many firms will promise results, but few can back that up with the specialized credentials, insider knowledge, and proven record that we bring at Galbavy Law.
David Galbavy is a Board-Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation, a distinction held by fewer than three percent of attorneys in North Carolina. This certification demonstrates his advanced knowledge of injury law and years of proven experience handling serious cases. For clients injured in Airbnb and vacation rental accidents, this means their cases are built on a foundation of deep legal and medical understanding. Many of these accidents involve orthopedic injuries that require surgeries, rehabilitation, or leave permanent impairments, and David's background allows him to present those claims effectively.
What sets this firm apart is the attorney's background as a former insurance defense attorney. This experience provided insights into how insurers assess claims and strategies they use to minimize payouts and deny responsibility. This knowledge is now used to advocate for injured clients. Every case is prepared with the expectation that insurers will challenge liability and undervalue damages. By anticipating these tactics, the firm effectively protects clients' rights from the outset.
Our record of results speaks for itself. Galbavy Law has recovered over $25 million for injured North Carolinians. Many of these victories came in cases that insurers initially tried to deny or settle for far less than what the client deserved. We fought back with thorough investigations, expert testimony, and relentless advocacy, securing outcomes that provided families with the resources they needed to recover and move forward.
We are also different in how we treat our clients. At large firms, cases are often passed from one staff member to another, and clients rarely speak directly to their attorney. At Galbavy Law, we do things differently. When you hire us, you work directly with me and a dedicated team that values open and effective communication. We answer calls, return messages, and provide updates so that you always know what is happening with your case. We understand that an Airbnb injury case is not just about compensation; it is about your health, your future, and your peace of mind.
Finally, we bring local knowledge to every case. Whether your accident occurred in a Charlotte townhouse, a Raleigh high-rise, a Greensboro rental home, or a mountain cabin near Asheville, we are familiar with the local courts, regulations, and the unique challenges of each community. We understand how to gather evidence, present it to local juries, and navigate the details that can make or break a claim.
At Galbavy Law, the difference is clear. We combine advanced credentials, insider knowledge, proven results, and a personal commitment to every client we represent. When you choose us, you are choosing a firm that treats your case as seriously as you do and fights for the justice and compensation you deserve.
When an accident happens in an Airbnb or short-term rental, victims and their families often have more questions than answers. Below are detailed responses to some of the most common concerns we hear from clients across Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Asheville, and other North Carolina communities.
These answers are only a starting point. Every Airbnb injury case in North Carolina is unique, and the best way to understand your rights is to speak with a dedicated premises injury lawyer.
Many Airbnb rentals offer access to common areas, including stairwells, lobbies, gyms, and parking lots. If an injury occurs in these spaces, liability may extend to the property owner, the homeowners’ association, or a management company responsible for maintenance. These cases often involve overlapping duties of care, and it is crucial to identify all responsible parties. A North Carolina Airbnb injury lawyer can sort through these complexities and ensure no source of compensation is overlooked.
An accident at an Airbnb or other short-term rental can disrupt your life in an instant. One day, you may be enjoying a trip to Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, or Asheville, and the next, you are facing emergency medical bills, orthopedic surgery, or a permanent impairment that changes the way you work and live. These injuries are not only painful but also costly and overwhelming. Many guests are left wondering who is responsible, how to pursue a claim, and whether they will ever recover enough to feel whole again.
At Galbavy Law, we know how complicated these cases can become. Unlike typical premises liability claims, short-term rental accidents often involve multiple parties, including the property owner, Airbnb as the platform, third-party maintenance providers, or even municipalities when dangerous conditions exist in shared spaces. Sorting through these responsibilities requires not only legal skill but also persistence. Without strong advocacy, it is easy for insurers and property owners to shift blame or deny accountability altogether.
David Galbavy leads Galbavy Law, where he passionately helps individuals in North Carolina recover from injuries and rebuild their lives. With a background as an insurance defense attorney, he understands how insurers assess claims and often portray victims as negligent. He now uses this knowledge to advocate for his clients vigorously.
As a Board-Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation—held by fewer than 3 percent of attorneys in the state—David offers unique insights into orthopedic injuries, permanent impairments, and the long-term medical costs associated with incidents, including those that occur at Airbnb properties. His expertise ensures clients receive the support they need during their recovery.
Our results speak for themselves. Over the years, Galbavy Law has recovered more than 20 million dollars for injured clients across NC. Many of these cases involved the very kinds of injuries common in short-term rental accidents: broken bones from falls, spinal injuries from defective stairs or railings, and traumatic brain injuries caused by unsafe conditions. Each recovery represents not only financial compensation but also the peace of mind that comes with knowing a client’s future is protected.
When you contact our office, you will not be treated like a case number. We believe in personal attention, open communication, and guiding you through every stage of the process. From the first consultation, we take the time to understand how your injury has impacted your life, work, and family. We then investigate thoroughly, gathering evidence such as maintenance records, inspection reports, and witness testimony to build the strongest possible case. Our preparation is meticulous because we are aware of how aggressively insurers fight to avoid liability.
We also understand how North Carolina’s contributory negligence law complicates these claims. If the defense can argue that you were even one percent at fault, they may try to bar you from recovering compensation. This rule is one of the strictest in the country, and it is often used unfairly against injury victims. Our role is to anticipate these arguments, gather the evidence needed to counter them, and protect your right to a full recovery.
If you have been hurt in an Airbnb or other vacation rental anywhere in the state, do not wait. Evidence can disappear quickly, witnesses’ memories fade, and insurers begin building their defense immediately. The sooner you involve an experienced attorney, the stronger your case will be. At Galbavy Law, consultations are always free, and you pay nothing unless we win compensation for you.
Your future is too important to leave in the hands of an insurance company or property owner who is focused on protecting their bottom line. By working with an NC Airbnb injury lawyer who has the credentials, experience, and record of results to stand up for you, you give yourself the best chance at justice.
Contact Galbavy Law today or submit your information through our online form to schedule a complimentary consultation. Let us put our experience to work for you, so you can focus on healing and moving forward. Your recovery begins with one conversation, and we are ready to stand by your side every step of the way: complete our contact form and get started today.
1 Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases because each case is unique and must be evaluated separately. The only way we can assist you is for you to call us about your case.
Protected by reCAPTCHA. Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
