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Holding Property Owners Accountable For Negligence

Accidents sometimes are unavoidable, but when an accident is caused because someone failed to post proper warnings about a hazard such as a wet floor, broken handrail or other property defect, you can hold them accountable for their lack of action. Stores, shopping centers, doctors’ offices and even schools have an obligation to ensure their properties are maintained in a manner that keeps it safe for those who are visiting.

It is a merchant’s obligation to the customer to maintain a safe environment. Keeping the floor free of hazardous material and notifying the customer when an area is hazardous, such as putting up a wet floor sign, is part of that job.

Take These Steps To Protect Your Premises Liability Claim

It is your job as the injured person to document:

  • When the accident took place
  • Whether or not there were signs noting that the area was hazardous
  • Where the accident took place and the business name
  • Witness information, if possible
  • Images of your injuries
  • Any medical attention that was needed

Your purpose on the property also plays a role in determining who is at fault for your injury. You may fall under one of the following categories:

  • Invitee: A person who is invited to a particular place or land by the owner. This person may be there for business or may be a part of the general public. When you are invited to a particular place (for instance, as a consumer), it is the responsibility of the owner of that land to take the necessary precautions in ensuring the safety of the invitee during the time that they are occupying the land.
  • Licensee: A person who is occupying land that is not open to the general public but who has been granted permission by the owner. The owner may also be at fault in the event that a licensee is endangered on their land.
  • Trespasser: A trespasser is a person who is occupying land on which they have no right to be and who has not been granted permission by the owner. In this situation, the trespasser is not entitled to the safety precautions that are set for people in the previous categories, as they have no business being on the land.

When you are injured on someone else’s property in Maryland or Washington, D.C., and you believe the cause is improper maintenance, poor lighting or another hazard that could have been prevented, you should contact our team at Morris Margulies.

We can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. We help hold property owners accountable when they are at fault for your injuries.

Talk To A Skilled Attorney About Your Case

Arrange your consultation by contacting us online or by calling 301-816-1600.