Sustaining injuries following a slip and fall in Maryland can be incredibly impactful on your life. It’s important to understand who can face liability for any damages you incur as a result of the accident. If this reflects your circumstances, you’ll want to keep reading to learn more about how a slip and fall happens, who is responsible for the medical bills you’ll receive, and why working with Baltimore County slip and fall attorneys is imperative in the fight for justice.
How Does a Slip and Fall Happen?
Unfortunately, there are a number of hazards that can lead to a slip and fall accident in Maryland. Typically, these are the results of unsafe premises. Common hazards that can result in a slip and fall accident include, but are by no means limited to, the following:
- Wet spots on the ground (caused by weather, spills, leaks, cleaning, etc.)
- Broken floorboards or tiles
- Unanchored carpeting
- Unsafe stairs
- Inadequate lighting
- Debris on the ground
- Uncleared ice or snow
- Unsafe sidewalks or and outdoor walkways
- Uneven flooring
While a slip and fall may seem embarrassing, they can be incredibly harmful. Many assume these are insignificant injuries, which can be true in some instances, but it is not always the case. In reality, you’ll find that slips and falls can result in broken bones, soft tissue injuries, traumatic brain injuries, neck and spinal cord damage, and lacerations, among other damages. These injuries can result in astronomical medical bills and a severely reduced quality of life.
Who Is Responsible for Paying My Medical Bills Following a Slip and Fall?
Typically, the property owner where the slip and fall occurred will be liable for paying any damages associated with the accident. This is because property owners have a duty of care to visitors to ensure their premises are safe and free from hazards. As such, if you are injured in a supermarket, for example, because an employee failed to put a “wet floor” sign after they cleaned, you can file a claim against the store itself. If you trip and fall because a homeowner left wires and cords on their sidewalk, you can file a claim against them.
In general, after your injury, your insurance will cover the cost of your medical care. However, if your injuries exceed your coverage as provided in your policy, you may need to rely on a personal injury lawsuit to recoup the compensation.
It is imperative, however, to understand that property owners do not owe a duty of care to trespassers, as they are not legal invitees on the property. As such, if you are trespassing and that is the cause of your injuries, you will not successfully seek compensation for the damages you’ve sustained.
You should also know that working with an experienced attorney is in your best interest during these complicated matters. In Maryland, if you are found even partially liable for the damages you’ve sustained, you cannot recover the compensation you deserve under the state’s contributory negligence statute.
At the Law Offices of Markey & Orsi, we understand the impacts a slip and fall can have on your life. That’s why our firm is committed to doing everything in our power to fight for the best possible outcome for you. When you’re hurt and in need of help, contact our team.
