Maryland’s Laws for Injuries Caused by Unsafe Premises

When it comes to personal injuries, understanding the laws that govern unsafe premises in Maryland is essential for victims seeking justice. The state follows the principle of premises liability, which holds property owners responsible for injuries that occur due to their negligence in maintaining safe conditions.

In Maryland, property owners have a duty to ensure that their premises are safe for visitors. This duty varies depending on the visitor's status: invitees, licensees, and trespassers. An invitee is someone who is invited onto the property, typically for business purposes, such as customers in a store. Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees and must take reasonable steps to prevent hazards.

Licensees, on the other hand, are individuals who enter the property for their own purposes, with the property owner's consent, such as social guests. While property owners still have a duty to warn licensees of known dangers, they are less responsible for maintaining a safe environment compared to their obligations toward invitees.

Trespassers are individuals who enter a property without permission. Maryland law generally offers minimal protection to trespassers. However, property owners cannot willfully harm trespassers and must refrain from setting traps or creating intentional hazards.

Maryland adheres to the doctrine of contributory negligence, meaning that if an injured party is found to be even 1% at fault for their injuries, they may be barred from recovering damages. This makes it crucial for victims to build a strong case and demonstrate that the property owner was primarily responsible for the unsafe conditions that led to the injury.

If an individual is injured due to unsafe premises in Maryland, they must follow specific steps to protect their rights. First, documenting the accident scene and unsafe conditions is critical. This includes taking photographs and gathering witness information. Seeking medical attention promptly is essential for both health reasons and to establish a medical record of the injury.

Victims may then consider consulting a personal injury attorney specializing in premises liability cases. An experienced attorney can evaluate the case, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent the injured party in court if necessary. Seeking compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.

In conclusion, understanding Maryland's laws regarding injuries caused by unsafe premises is vital for ensuring that victims can exercise their rights. By recognizing the different duties owed to various types of visitors and the implications of contributory negligence, individuals can navigate the legal landscape more effectively.