Can a Hotel Kick You Out During a Hurricane?

As hurricane season approaches, many people are wondering if a hotel can legally kick them out during a hurricane.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Yes, a hotel can kick you out during a hurricane.

In this article, we’ll explore the legalities of hotels evacuating guests during a hurricane, including the responsibilities of the hotel and the options available to guests.

The Responsibility of the Hotel

When a hurricane or other natural disaster strikes, many people seek refuge in hotels. However, with the potential for dangerous conditions and evacuations, it’s important to understand the responsibilities of the hotel in these situations.

Legal Obligations for Hotels

Hotels have a legal obligation to ensure the safety of their guests. This includes preparing for and responding to natural disasters. Many states have laws that require hotels to have emergency plans in place and to communicate these plans to guests. Hotels may also be required to evacuate guests if local authorities issue evacuation orders.

However, it’s important to note that hotels may not be held responsible for injuries or damages that occur due to a natural disaster if they have taken reasonable steps to ensure guest safety.

Guest Safety Concerns

During a hurricane, the safety of guests is the top priority for hotels. Hotel staff should be trained in emergency procedures and should be prepared to assist guests in evacuating or taking shelter if necessary.

Hotels should also communicate with guests about the potential risks and provide updates on the status of the storm. This includes information on evacuation orders, shelter locations, and potential hazards. Guests should be encouraged to follow the guidance of local authorities and hotel staff.

Hotel Liability

If a guest is injured or experiences property damage during a hurricane, the hotel may be held liable if they were negligent in their duty to ensure guest safety. This may include failing to evacuate guests when necessary or failing to provide adequate warning about potential hazards.

However, hotels may not be held liable for damages that occur due to the storm itself, such as flooding or wind damage. It’s important for guests to have adequate travel insurance to cover these types of damages.

Guest Options During a Hurricane

As a guest during a hurricane, it is important to know your options. Here are some important things to consider:

Evacuation orders

When a hurricane is expected to hit, local authorities may issue evacuation orders. It is important to follow these orders to ensure your safety. If you are staying in a hotel, the hotel staff will likely assist you in following the evacuation orders. It is important to pay attention to all announcements and take any necessary precautions.

Hotel policies

Many hotels have policies in place for hurricanes and other natural disasters. These policies may include timelines for evacuation, fees for early departures, and other important information. It is important to familiarize yourself with these policies when you check in so that you know what to expect in case of a hurricane.

If you are already staying in a hotel and a hurricane is approaching, the hotel may require you to evacuate or move to a different room. In some cases, the hotel may even close completely. It is important to follow all instructions given by hotel staff to ensure your safety.

Alternative accommodations

If your hotel is closed or you are unable to stay there due to a hurricane, you may need to find alternative accommodations. This could include staying with friends or family, booking a room at a different hotel, or even staying in a shelter.

It is important to have a plan in place in case you need to find alternative accommodations during a hurricane. Keep important phone numbers and addresses on hand, and make sure you have a way to get there safely.

Remember, your safety is the top priority during a hurricane. Always follow evacuation orders and hotel policies to ensure your well-being.

For more information, visit the Ready.gov website for hurricane preparedness tips and resources.

What to Do If You’re Kicked Out of a Hotel

As a hurricane approaches, it’s important to make sure you have a safe place to stay. Unfortunately, there have been cases where hotels have kicked out guests during a hurricane. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this situation:

Contact Local Authorities

If you’re kicked out of a hotel during a hurricane, the first thing you should do is contact local authorities. This could be the police, the fire department, or even the local emergency management agency. They may be able to help you find alternative shelter or provide you with other resources.

Find Alternative Shelter

It’s important to find alternative shelter as soon as possible. This could be a shelter run by the local government or a hotel that’s farther inland. If you don’t have transportation, the local authorities may be able to provide it for you.

If you’re unable to find alternative shelter, consider staying with friends or family who live outside of the hurricane’s path. You could also look for short-term rentals on websites like Airbnb or Vrbo.

Document Your Experience

It’s important to document your experience if you’re kicked out of a hotel during a hurricane. This could include taking photos or videos of the hotel and any damage caused by the hurricane. You should also keep any receipts or other documentation related to the hotel stay.

If you feel that the hotel acted negligently or violated your rights, you may want to consider speaking with a lawyer. They can help you understand your legal options and may be able to help you seek compensation for any damages you suffered.

Remember, the most important thing during a hurricane is to stay safe. If you’re kicked out of a hotel, don’t panic. Follow these steps and seek help from local authorities if needed.

Conclusion

While being kicked out of a hotel during a hurricane is not ideal, it is within the legal rights of the hotel to do so in order to ensure the safety of their guests and staff.

It’s important for guests to understand their options during a hurricane and to have a plan in place in case of evacuation.

By staying informed and being prepared, guests can help ensure their safety during hurricane season.