What Evidence to Collect Suing over Bed Bugs

Collecting as much evidence as possible is critical, starting from the moment you suspect there are bed bugs on the property. Different kinds of proof can support a claim for negligence by a landlord, hotel owner, etc., but as a general rule, here is the evidence you should obtain:

• Pictures / video of bed bugs or physical evidence of bed bugs: use your phone to take photos and/or video of anything that’s indicative of a bed bug infestation. This includes tiny bloodstains on bedding, dark-colored droppings or smears, bed bug eggs, and exoskeletons that are shed by adult bed bugs. To locate such evidence, look under the mattress, around your bed frame, around and underneath baseboards, inside luggage, drawers, and between couch cushions. Make sure to record all the areas where you find signs of bed bugs to show the extent of the infestation.
• Photos of injuries you sustained from bed bug bites: most people only figure out that bed bugs are on the premises when they wake up to find a zigzag or cluster pattern of red bite marks on their skin. The marks are usually raised and itchy welts, often on the legs and arms. Some people are severely allergic to bed bug saliva, but even without such sensitivity, you can easily end up with infections and scars. This is due to the fact that the bite marks are extremely itchy, and people cannot resist scratching them. Proof of physical harm is the most important element in a bed bug lawsuit, so make sure to take photos or video of all the bite marks and other injuries you sustained.
• Gather all medical records: in order to file a personal injury claim, you need proof of the harm you suffered, which is why medical records are necessary. You should see a doctor as soon as possible to avoid long-term complications and to establish a clear link between your injuries and the infestation of bed bugs on the property
• Receipt of your hotel stay or apartment lease: bed bugs are unfortunately common in multi-unit settings like hotels and apartment / condo buildings. You must establish that the party you are suing owed you a duty of care, so make sure to have a copy of your hotel bill or rental lease, or something else that shows the relationship between you and the negligent party. We also recommend that you submit a written complaint to your landlord or hotel manager as proof that they were notified of the bed bugs and failed to refund you, hire an exterminator, etc.

Under the laws in California, bed bug claims fall under the category of premises liability. Thus, you have 2 years from when you are injured to file a lawsuit. For most people, this would be the date of finding bite marks and other injuries caused by bed bugs. However, there are circumstances that can shorten or lengthen the amount of time for a lawsuit, which you can learn about from one of our attorneys.

Make sure to initiate a bed bug claim right away, as the statute of limitations can run out much quicker than you think. If you do not take legal action before the 2-year deadline, you will lose the right to sue the responsible party.

Failure to take reasonable care and ensure a safe living environment can lead to problems with bed bugs, and you should not have to deal with the ramifications of an infestation on your own. Here at DTLA Law Group, we are dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the highest compensation you deserve by law.

Clients pay $0 to hire us for a bed bug claim, as all of our attorneys work on contingency. We also have a Zero Fee Guarantee, so if we do not win your case, you pay $0 for the cost of legal services. That way, your finances are not affected by taking a chance on us and learning about the ways we can assist you.

Contact a Los Angeles bed bug lawsuit attorney today and schedule a free case evaluation.