Upper Marlboro Premises Liability Lawyer
Individuals who own property in Maryland are legally responsible for maintaining safe premises. If you were recently injured on a residential or commercial property for reasons that could have been avoided, contact an Upper Marlboro premises liability lawyer. Your right to safe premises was ignored and you could be eligible for a variety of damages that provide financial support as you recover.
Work with a lawyer who not only understands the state’s property safety laws, but has experience representing cases like yours. An experienced attorney with an excellent track record provides reassurance during this difficult period and ensures your legal claim gets filed correctly and on time. Reach out to a knowledgeable Upper Marlboro premises liability attorney as soon as possible to get started on your case.
Are Most Unsafe Premises Cases Based on Negligence?
While some hazardous premises cases have to do with intentional tort, or intentional acts, most concern negligence. Property owners in Maryland owe those who legally enter their land duty of care, meaning their premises are relatively safe or feature signage indicating unsafe areas. Owners who fail to keep their lands safe become subject to personal injury claims, as do those who intentionally try to harm individuals on their grounds.
People on property that does not belong to them fall into three main categories. The first category concerns invitees, or guests. After being invited by the owner, these individuals arrive at a property and have the right to walk the premises without succumbing to hazard-related injuries. Licensees such as service technicians and salespeople also have the right to safe grounds. While some licensees might not enjoy explicit invitations, such as clean energy representatives, they are still within their legal rights to enter various properties.
Trespassers make up the third category and enter premises illegally. Any injuries they sustain are not the landowner’s legal responsibility because these people did not have the right to be on premise. Some trespassers do not have ill intentions, such as those taking shortcuts to their own properties; however, they generally cannot claim damages with an attorney’s assistance because of their illegal actions.
What Types of Injuries Are Common in Hazardous Property Cases?
Unfortunately, individuals can sustain a wide range of injuries when entering another’s property and require legal professional help. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Head trauma
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken bones
- Puncture wounds
- Organ damage
Such injuries can occur because of slippery walkways, icy stairs, dog bites, swimming pool hazards, equipment failures, falling objects, toxic chemical or fume exposure, poor security, and electrocutions. Injuries occur not only on residential properties, but commercial properties such as retail and grocery stores, hotels, restaurants, hospitals, parking lots, concert venues, and office buildings.
Plaintiffs have three years from the date of their injuries to file legal claims according to the Maryland Courts & Judicial Proceedings Code Title 5, Section 5-101. Those who are underage, disabled, or mentally incompetent at the time of the incident can file for extensions.
Speak With a Hazardous Premises Attorney in Upper Marlboro About Your Case Today
Now is the time to talk with an Upper Marlboro premises liability lawyer if you have sustained injuries on someone else’s property. A member of our firm will listen to your story and provide counsel that determines how you should proceed. Get some peace of mind by contacting our office today.