Oops! Pay Up: A Look At Accident Prevention In The Hospitality Industry

“Oops! Pay Up” is a new book by Joseph L. Benson II, Esq. that offers a unique perspective on accident prevention from the point of view of Las Vegas injury attorney. Drawing on his 25 years of experience in Nevada, Benson discusses key areas where hotels and other hospitality-related businesses can improve guest safety and protect themselves from potential litigation.

This book is essential reading for anyone in the hospitality industry, providing valuable information on how to create a safer environment for guests and minimize legal risks. Benson uses real-world examples, many based on the thousands of cases he has handled, to illustrate how accidents happen and how they can be prevented.

Sign up and download a free copy of the book. Inside, you will find information about:

• How to create a safer environment for guests.
• Minimize legal risks in the hotel industry.
• Real examples of accidents and how to prevent them.

Inside Hotel Hazards: True Stories Of Accidents & Risks

“Oops! Pay Up” offers an inside look at common causes of hotel accidents, with specific examples that illustrate potential risks.

• Slippery Floors: Benson examines the dangers of slippery floors in hotels, pointing out examples such as polished marble floors in lobbies, wet surfaces near swimming pools, and poorly maintained carpets. In one case described in the book, a customer broke his arm when he tripped over a blackjack dealer’s box that blended into the patterned carpet. The casino paid $28,000 for this mistake.
• Poorly Lit Stairs: Inadequate lighting, especially on stairs, can create a significant danger for hotel guests. Benson provides examples of accidents caused by poor lighting and highlights the importance of adequate lighting and safety signage.
• Poor Maintenance: From loose handrails to broken furniture, poor maintenance can create a number of hazards for guests. Benson highlights examples of accidents caused by poor maintenance and stresses the need for regular inspections and timely repairs.

Legal Aspects Of Hotel Liability

“Oops! Pay Up” examines the ins and outs of negligence law as it relates to hotel liability. Benson explains the key elements of negligence, including duty of care, breach, causation and damages. Understanding these legal elements is essential for hotels to understand their responsibilities and make informed decisions about safety measures.

The book also discusses more complex issues, such as negligence proven by Res Ipsa Loquitur, which can be used in cases where an accident appears obviously caused by negligence, but where the specific act of negligence is difficult to determine. Additionally, “Oops! Pay Up” examines specific laws relevant to the hospitality industry, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and pool safety regulations.

Case Studies: Lessons Learned From Real Accidents

To illustrate the critical importance of safety protocols, “Oops! Pay Up” presents compelling case studies of real accidents. These case studies provide valuable insights into the consequences of poor security measures and potential legal liabilities that hotels face.

• The Case of the Heimlich Maneuver: Benson recounts a tragic incident in which a guest choked to death in a hotel restaurant because the staff was not properly trained in the Heimlich maneuver. The book analyzes the findings of the case and highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and employee training.
• The Mandalay Bay Shooting: Benson also discusses the 2017 mass shooting at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, in which a gunman opened fire from a hotel suite on attendees of a music festival, killing 58 people and injuring more than 500. Although the hotel was not held directly responsible for the shooting, it was held responsible for failing to take reasonable safety measures to prevent it. The book analyzes the legal and financial consequences the hotel faced, underscoring the critical importance of comprehensive security measures.

“Oops! Pay Up” is a comprehensive guide for hospitality industry professionals, risk managers, and a personal injury lawyer in Las Vegas to understand and mitigate the risks associated with premises liability. Its practical approach, real-world examples, and legal analysis make it an essential tool for anyone looking to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for guests. Don’t hesitate to contact us today!