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A simple errand or visit to a friend’s home can quickly turn into something far more serious if you’re hurt on someone else’s property. Whether it’s slipping on a wet floor, falling on broken steps, or being attacked in a poorly lit area, these accidents often come as a shock. Beyond the pain, you may be left facing medical bills and time away from work. This blog explains how Maryland law handles these types of claims and how an experienced premises liability lawyer can help protect your rights.
What Is Premises Liability in Maryland?
Premises liability refers to the responsibility property owners and occupiers have to keep their property reasonably safe for visitors. This duty applies to businesses, landlords, private homeowners, and even public spaces.
In Maryland, the level of care owed depends on your status as a visitor:
- Invitees (like customers in a store) are owed the highest duty of care.
- Licensees (such as social guests) must be warned of known dangers.
- Trespassers are generally owed little protection, though exceptions exist for children.
Understanding your visitor status is a key part of any premises liability claim.
Common Causes of Property-Related Injuries
Premises liability claims arise from a wide range of hazards, such as:
- Slips and falls in grocery stores or restaurants
- Cracked sidewalks or uneven parking lot surfaces
- Broken stairways, missing handrails, or damaged flooring
- Poor lighting in hallways, stairwells, or exterior spaces
- Negligent security that allows assaults to occur
In Maryland, icy sidewalks and unshoveled walkways are frequent sources of injury claims during the winter months. Property owners are expected to take reasonable steps to address these dangers before someone gets hurt.
What Do You Need to Prove in a Maryland Premises Liability Claim?
Winning a premises liability case requires proving several essential elements:
- A dangerous condition existed on the property.
- The property owner knew or should have known about the condition.
- The condition caused your injury directly.
One of the most challenging aspects in Maryland is the contributory negligence rule. This strict standard means that if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident—for example, if you ignored warning signs—you may be barred from recovering compensation. This makes strong evidence and careful preparation essential.
Types of Injuries in Premises Liability Cases
The harm from a property-related accident can range from minor to life-changing. Common injuries include:
- Sprains, strains, and broken bones from slips and falls
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries caused by head impacts
- Spinal cord injuries from falls down stairs or from heights
- Emotional distress following incidents involving negligent security
Older adults are especially vulnerable, as falls can result in hip fractures and other serious complications.
What Compensation Is Available?
If you’ve been injured due to unsafe property conditions, you may be able to recover damages for:
- Hospital bills, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care
- Lost income and reduced ability to work
- Pain and suffering related to your injuries
- Long-term care costs in severe cases
- Costs for assistive devices or home modifications, if needed
Because contributory negligence can limit or bar recovery, thoroughly documenting your injuries and the unsafe condition is vital.
How a Maryland Premises Liability Lawyer Can Help
Handling a premises liability claim is rarely straightforward. Property owners and their insurers often try to argue that the injured person was at fault. A skilled lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident scene and preserve key evidence
- Interview witnesses and obtain security camera footage
- Collect maintenance logs or inspection reports
- Work with doctors to connect your injuries to the hazardous condition
- Negotiate with insurers to seek fair compensation
At McGowan & Cecil, we handle complex premises liability cases every day and know how to challenge Maryland’s contributory negligence laws on your behalf. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation and explore your options.