Georgia

Georgia is located in the southeastern region of the United States. It has the 24^th largest area and is the 8^th most populous state in the U.S. in 2019 the estimated population was over 10 million according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Georgia attracts many travelers and contains one of America’s busiest airports. On top of that, you have the Georgia aquarium, Rock City Gardens, and the World of Coca-Cola as major tourist attractions.

These landmarks are mostly positive for a state that has a nice tourist economy, but all of these travelers come not without problems, one of which is the prevalence of bed bugs.

Bed Bug Lawyers in Georgia

Our bed bug experts and lawyers are proud to represent bed bug victims across big cities like Atlanta and along with the entire state of Georgia. Below you’ll find important information regarding how to sue for bed bugs, and what you can recover compensation for.

If you have suffered from a bed bug infestation due to the conduct of your landlord or hotel management, we’re here to help you seek justice.

What Are Bed Bugs?

The true name for the common bed bug is Cimex Lextularius, in that they possess a hinged beak and have a stylet. This stylet is what allows the bug to feast on your blood, causing it to swell up to six times its normal size after a meal.

Because of the name, most people think bed bugs are only found in beds, however, they can come from many different places.

Here are some common places you may find bed bugs other than your bed:

• Furniture
• Electric Appliances
• Clocks
• Computers
• Wall Hangings
• Electric Outlets

This is the common misconception with bed bugs, people think they can just throw out their mattress and be done. In reality, bed bugs can live anywhere and come from anywhere, making them very resilient creatures and also very hard to get rid of.

How Did I Get Bed bugs in my Georgia Hotel or Apartment?

Bed bugs are great hitchhikers, as people often unknowingly carry them around in their bags or luggage. This can be luggage when you’re traveling, a briefcase, clothes, or just a backpack.

These bugs can be picked up at public transportation or sometimes in the movie theater. If you think you may have bed bugs be sure to identify them properly. There are many insects that are mistaken for bed bugs –

Be sure to use the following methods to identify your infestation:

• Bloodstains on your sheets, blankets, or mattress
• Dark or rusty spots, this would be bed bug droppings
• Eggshells or shed skin in areas where bed bugs are hiding
• A musty odor (this could be a sign of a serious infestation)

If you suspect an infestation, you must remove all bedding and check for these signs. Remove the dust or cover over the bottom of the box springs and examine the corners and seams of the framing.  It’s important to do a thorough inspection so that you know what you’re dealing with.

What to do After you Identify a Bed Bug Infestation

Once you have properly identified and located the infestation it’s time to protect your rights to compensation and treat the injuries you’re suffering from.

• Take photographs of your injuries – Make sure to take pictures of bites wherever they exist on your body. If you’re suffering from rashes or infection from the bites make sure to document appropriately.
• File a report or claim – Whether you’re dealing with a landlord or hotel management, it’s important to contact the necessary manager to report the incident. Get the name of the person you talked to, their title, and personal contact information.
• Seek Medical Treatment – This can be more of a priority depending on the severity of your injury. Go to your nearest hospital or urgent care center, make sure they document your injuries and you keep all hospital receipts and invoices.
• Do NOT speak or agree to any sort of settlement. This could potentially hurt your case, don’t accept gift cards or any type of compensation directly from your hotel or landlord.
• Once your evidence is in order consider submitting a bed bug demand letter. This would be the first step in taking action against a negligent party for a bed bug settlement.

Note the Statute of Limitations and Follow the Filing Deadline

The Statute of Limitations refers to the period in which a victim has to file a civil lawsuit for monetary compensation in court. In the state of Georgia, victims of personal injury have up to two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit.

Suing for Bed Bugs in a Georgia Hotel or Apartment

If you were bitten by bed bugs you know how irritating and uncomfortable it can make your life. These bites can require medical treatment, and in some cases even be dangerous to your health.

You are entitled to sue for the following losses from an infestation:

• Loss of Belongings – This could mean furniture, clothes, luggage etc.. Anything you had to throw out as a result of the infestation
• Lost Wages – Any lost time at work while you were dealing with the infestation
• Pain & Suffering – This includes physical, mental, and emotional damages
• Cost of Extermination – Costs of having a certified bed bug professional come and eradicate the infestation.
• Punitive Damages – This could include “exemplary” damages that are ordered for serious cases of negligence that knowingly put others at risk as well as repeated instances of bed bug attacks.

Georgia Bed Bug Experts & Attorneys are Here to Help

If you or a loved one had their home, apartment, hotel/motel room, Airbnb, assisted living facility, or school infested with bed bug bites, you may be entitled to seek justice from the responsible party. Our experts will provide you with a free consultation to determine if you have a case and the necessary evidence to seek compensation. For help with a case, contact us today.