Injured On Vacation in Maryland? Holding Negligent Property Owners Liable
Maryland is a popular destination for summer travelers. Millions of people visit at this time of year, shopping and sightseeing in the bustling Inner Harbor, enjoying the sun and surf in Ocean City, or checking out the many museums, historical sites, and other attractions throughout the state.
Unfortunately, what started as a fun vacation can quickly turn into a painful and expensive ordeal if you get injured while staying at a hotel, short-term rental, or resort property. Our Maryland personal injury attorneys help vacationers who get injured due to unsafe conditions hold negligent property owners liable.
Vacation Property Hazards That Can Cause Personal Injuries In Maryland
According to the Maryland Department of Commerce, over 40 million people visit the state each year. Between local beaches, the Bay, and other waterways, summer is the most common time for tourism.
While there are plenty of hotels, motels, cottages, and other short-term accommodations available, the hectic nature of the season means that property maintenance and management often get neglected. Common hazards on Maryland vacation properties that can cause serious personal injuries include:
- Slippery or uneven walkways, especially near pools or beachfront areas;
- Loose or broken handrails, stairs, or decking;
- Lack of lighting, which can make it difficult to see obstacles or steps at night;
- Unmarked hazards, like drop-offs, cleaning chemicals, or wet floors;
- Neglected maintenance, such as exposed wiring, broken furniture, or unsafe balconies;
- Lack of required safety features, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
When Property Owners Can Be Held Liable Under Maryland Law
Broken bones, sprained or torn muscles, severe lacerations, and head, back, or neck injuries can happen due to the above and other hazards, impacting you and your loved ones long after your trip. Property owners have a legal obligation to keep their premises reasonably safe. When they fail to do so, you can hold them liable for your losses.
Under the Maryland Statutes, you have up to three years after your injuries happen to seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other costs. To file a successful claim, you must show that:
- The property owner or manager knew or should have known about the dangerous condition.
- They failed to fix the issue or provide proper warnings.
- That failure directly caused your injury.
- You suffered actual harm as a result.
If you are injured while on vacation, inform the property owner, onsite security, or the police immediately. Get a copy of the accident report, contact information for everyone involved (including witnesses), and take photos or videos as evidence. Visit the local emergency room or urgent care clinic right away, regardless of your symptoms.
Contact Our Experienced Maryland Personal Injury Attorneys Today
If you suffered personal injuries while vacationing in Maryland, Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP provides trusted, local legal representation, protecting your rights in a claim.
We investigate the property conditions, determine liability, and fight to get you the maximum compensation for your losses. Contact our experienced Maryland personal injury attorneys to request a consultation today.
Sources:
commerce.maryland.gov/media/maryland-welcomes-more-than-43-5-million-visitors-in-2022
mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gcj§ion=5-109
