Property owners have a duty to keep their spaces reasonably safe.
Understanding Premises Liability in Maryland
In Maryland, property owners have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. This duty involves taking reasonable steps to prevent injuries from hazards on the property. This is known as premises liability.
If you are an invited guest or customer (legally called an “invitee”), the property owner must regularly inspect the area for hazards. “Licesnsees” are socially invited guests and are owed a lesser duty. “Trespassers” are owed almost no duty. Property owners cannot create hazardous conditions or set traps, but trespassers mostly assume responsibility when they enter the property.
That includes things like:
- Cleaning wet floors
- Marking slippery surfaces
- Repairing broken steps or handrails
- Salting icy walkways
If they fail to do that—and you get hurt—they may be legally responsible. We break it down in plain English and explain your options clearly.
Common Slip & Fall Accidents
Falls happen every day—and many are preventable.
Icy Walkways & Parking Lots
If sidewalks or stairs were not properly treated in winter, the property owner may be liable.
Poor Lighting
Dim hallways or unlit stairwells can cause serious missteps—especially in apartment complexes.
Loose Carpeting or Flooring
Ripped rugs, uneven tiles, and loose mats can easily cause someone to trip.
Lack of Handrails
Stairs without railings or ramps that do not meet code are especially dangerous for adults and senior citizens.
Falls aren’t always minor—they can cause major harm.
Severe Injuries & Compensation
A bad fall can leave you with more than a bruised ego. We’ve represented clients with:
- Broken hips or wrists
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal injuries
- Torn ligaments or tendons
- Chronic pain requiring surgery or rehab
- Wrongful death
We fight to recover full compensation for:
- Emergency care & hospital bills
- Ongoing treatment & physical therapy
- Lost wages & future work limitations
- Pain & suffering
- Permanency
You do not have to take on a property owner or insurer alone.
You don’t have to take on a property owner or insurer alone.
How Palumbo, Palumbo, & Lovelace Can Help You Get Compensation
Slip and fall cases can be tough—especially in Maryland, where contributory negligence can bar recovery if you are found even slightly at fault. That is why you need a lawyer who understands how to challenge these defenses. We’ve helped clients across Fort Washington and Prince George’s County recover from falls in stores, apartment buildings, and other unsafe spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Representing Fall Injury Victims Across Prince George’s County & Southern Maryland
We’ve helped clients who fell in grocery stores, restaurants, government buildings, and rental properties across Fort Washington, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Upper Marlboro, and Charles County. We know the law, and we know how to help local residents get justice after preventable falls.