Injured at a Texas Hotel or Resort During a Winter Getaway? Here’s What to Know

February in Texas brings festivals, Valentine’s Day celebrations, and long weekends. Many Texans take this time to book a hotel or resort stay for a short getaway. While these trips are meant to be relaxing, accidents can happen—especially when properties are crowded or poorly maintained.

Hotels and resorts have a legal duty to keep their property reasonably safe for guests. If you are injured during your stay, you may have rights under Texas premises liability law.

Here’s what you should know.

Why Hotel Injuries Increase in February

February often brings higher hotel occupancy across Texas. Holiday weekends, seasonal events, and special promotions can fill rooms quickly. When properties are crowded, wear and tear on facilities increases.

Winter weather can also add risk. Rain, freezing temperatures, and wet surfaces can make walkways and outdoor areas more dangerous.

More guests combined with winter conditions can increase the chance of injuries on hotel property.

Common Hotel and Resort Hazards

Hotels are responsible for maintaining safe conditions in guest rooms, hallways, stairwells, parking lots, and common areas. When they fail to fix known hazards, they may be held liable.

Here are some of the most common injury risks:

Unsafe Balconies and Structural Hazards

Balconies are popular in coastal and scenic areas. However, loose railings, unstable flooring, or structural damage can create serious dangers.

Hotels are required to inspect and repair structural issues. If management knew—or should have known—about a dangerous condition and failed to fix it, they may be responsible for resulting injuries.

Stairwell and Hallway Dangers

Slip-and-fall accidents are among the most common hotel injuries. Hazards may include:

• Broken or loose handrails

• Uneven steps

• Poor lighting

• Worn or loose carpeting

• Spilled liquids left unattended

These conditions can cause falls that lead to back injuries, head trauma, or broken bones. In some cases, the effects can last for months or even years.

Parking Lot and Outdoor Area Accidents

Outdoor areas can be just as dangerous as indoor spaces. Common hazards include:

• Poor lighting

• Uneven pavement

• Potholes

• Lack of security

• Wet or icy walkways

Hotel management must maintain parking lots and outdoor areas in a safe condition. Failure to address known dangers could make the property owner liable for injuries.

When Is a Hotel Liable for an Injury?

A hotel or resort may be held responsible if:

• A dangerous condition existed on the property

• Management knew or should have known about it

• The hazard was not repaired or properly warned about

• The unsafe condition caused the injury

Each case depends on the specific facts. Evidence such as incident reports, photos, surveillance footage, and witness statements can play an important role.

What To Do After a Hotel Injury

If you or a loved one is injured at a hotel or resort, taking the right steps can protect your rights:

• Report the incident to management and request a written report

• Take photos or videos of the hazard

• Gather contact information from witnesses

• Seek medical attention

• Speak with a personal injury attorney before dealing with insurance companies

Quick action can help preserve important evidence.

Injured at a Texas Hotel or Resort? Call Shaw.

A winter getaway should end with good memories—not medical bills and lost income. If you or a loved one was injured at a Texas hotel or resort due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Ambulance and emergency care

• ER visits and hospital stays

• Surgeries and medical treatment

• Pain and suffering

• Property damage

• Lost wages or missed work

• Wrongful death

• And more

At Carabin Shaw, we understand how stressful an unexpected injury can be—especially while traveling. Our team is here to help you understand your options at no cost.

📞 Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 or use our live chat to schedule your free case evaluation. No fees. No obligations. Just experienced legal guidance from a firm that puts clients first.

We look forward to serving you.