Winter Slip And Fall Injuries: Holding Property Owners Liable

The holiday season is here, which means lots of shopping and celebrating. It also means an increase in winter weather. Unfortunately, slush, snow, and icy conditions create dangerous conditions and increase the risks of slip and fall accidents in Maryland.

Whether it’s at a store, restaurant, holiday party, or someone’s home, the property owner has a duty to maintain the premises and warn of potential hazards. Our experienced Maryland slip, trip, and fall attorneys explain common hazards and your rights in holding property owners liable.

Dangerous Conditions Increase Maryland Fall Accident Risks Over Winter

Slips, trips, and falls are beyond a doubt one of the most common causes of personal injuries. The Maryland Department of Health warns that children and older adults are among those most at risk, but they can cause broken bones, herniated discs, traumatic brain injuries, and other serious harm for people of all ages.

Between holiday shoppers and winter weather, the risks increase at this time of year. Common hazards that make falls more likely to happen include:

• Slick sidewalks and parking lots;
• Lack of non-slip mats at entrances and exits;
• Wet floors and failure to post warning signs;
• Excess clutter in aisles or hallways;
• Dark store entrances, stairwells, and walkways;
• Lack of handrails at heights;
• Failure to properly secure items such as seasonal decor and extension cords.

These and other dangerous conditions are common not just over the holidays, but throughout the winter months. When injuries result, you have the right to hold the property owner accountable. They can be held liable either through their property insurance or by filing a claim through the Maryland court system.

How To Protect Yourself Against Winter Slip and Fall Accidents In Maryland

You can reduce the odds of getting hurt by a Maryland slip, trip, or fall accident by being aware of the risks and taking precautions. This includes paying attention when out and about, not rushing, watching for potential hazards, and wearing the appropriate shoes for the weather. If a fall happens, take these steps:

• Notify onsite security, the property owner, or a manager immediately.
• Make sure they complete an incident report and request a copy.
• Gather evidence, if you can, such as photos of hazards and witness information.
• Get medical care right away and inform your doctor of all symptoms.

Under Maryland law, you may be entitled to compensation (referred to as “damages”) for your pain, suffering, medical care, missed earnings, and other losses. Before speaking to insurers or accepting a settlement, contact our experienced Maryland slip, trip, and fall attorneys.

Schedule a Consultation Today With Our Maryland Slip, Trip, and Fall Attorneys

Slip and fall accidents in Maryland pose risks over the holidays and throughout winter. They can cause serious personal injuries that can jeopardize both your health and financial security for years to come.

At Berman Sobin Gross LLP, we hold property owners accountable for what happened and fight for the compensation you need to recover. Contact our Maryland slip, trip, and fall attorneys to request a consultation today.

Sources:

maps.health.maryland.gov/ephtportal/falls

courts.state.md.us/district

mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gcj&section=11-109