Man Sues Travelodge Over Scabies Infection
Darren Jones, a resident of Old Colwyn in Wales, found himself embroiled in a legal battle with Travelodge after claiming to have contracted scabies during his stay at one of their hotels. Jones alleged that after spending three nights at a Travelodge in Reading, Berkshire, in July 2021, he experienced symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, and a rash all over his body, which was later diagnosed as scabies. Seeking damages, he took the matter to court, accusing the hotel chain of being responsible for his condition. However, Travelodge denied any liability in the case.
The trial, which took place in October of the following year, faced a setback when Mr. Jones, representing himself in court, failed to provide the necessary paperwork. As a result, the trial was halted. Despite an appeal by Jones at Mold County Court, a judge upheld the decision, stating that the district judge in the initial trial had acted correctly. Honour Judge Gareth Humphreys, presiding over the appeal, acknowledged the severity of Mr. Jones’ health issues but emphasised the importance of adhering to court procedures, including the submission of a witness statement.
During the hearing, Mr. Jones recounted falling ill after his stay at the Reading Whitley Travelodge hotel. He mentioned using a hotel duvet stored in a plastic bag in the room’s wardrobe during his visit. Mr. Jones reported feeling unwell on the morning after his stay, leading to a diagnosis of scabies by two doctors. Barrister Gareth Compton, representing Travelodge, highlighted that the plaintiff had been reminded multiple times to provide a witness statement ahead of the trial. As Mr. Jones failed to comply, the district judge ruled in favour of striking out his case.
Judge Humphreys clarified that the purpose of the appeal was not to determine the origin of Mr. Jones’ scabies infection but to address the procedural lapses that occurred during the trial. He affirmed that the district judge’s decision was based on Mr. Jones’ failure to follow court orders, rather than the merits of his claim against Travelodge. Despite expressing sympathy for Mr. Jones’ health struggles, the judge maintained that legal standards must be upheld, even by self-represented individuals.
Throughout the legal proceedings, Travelodge reportedly made settlement offers to Mr. Jones without admitting liability. The case underscored the challenges faced by individuals representing themselves in court and the importance of complying with legal requirements. While Mr. Jones was dissatisfied with the outcome of the appeal, Judge Humphreys reaffirmed the need for procedural adherence in judicial processes. The impact of the scabies infection on Mr. Jones was evident, as confirmed by medical reports, although the issue of liability remained unresolved due to the procedural dismissal of the case. Travelodge declined to provide a comment on the matter when approached by North Wales Live for a response.