Premises Liability Burden Of Proof

The injuries a person can suffer from a slip and fall accident are devastating, such as traumatic brain injury, concussions, fractures, bruising, lacerations, and even death. Recovery from a slip and fall accident can be arduous and expensive, with hospital bills, rehabilitation facility bills, loss of income, and permanent injury. Property owners owe certain duty to members of the public.

Establishing a Premises Liability Case

Many slip and fall accidents are the results of a property owner’s negligence. They can be held accountable for this negligence. Under premises liability laws, a property owner is responsible for the following:

  • Keep the property in good condition
  • Warn about any hazardous conditions
  • Repair dangerous conditions the property owner knows about
  • Inspect the property for defects, if the property is a commercial property (like a grocery store or a mall)

Examples of premises liability cases

Property owner neglect can be apparent in many instances. Commercial and residential property owners are not only responsible for their property, but the adjacent sidewalk as well Some specific examples of negligence include the following:

  • Weather conditions: Under the municipal law, property owners have a certain period of time after a snowstorm to clear ice and snow from public areas. If they fail to do so and a person is hurt, they could be held responsible.
  • Code violations: building owners must comply with building codes and keep stair landings, stair surfaces, and handrails in working condition.
  • Store negligence: Merchandise that has fallen can cause slippery spots if not properly cleaned up.
  • Walkway issues: uneven sidewalk edges, crumbling concrete, or failing to maintain sidewalks can cause a person walking on them to fall and become seriously injured.

If you or a loved one have been the victim of a slip and fall due to the negligence of a property owner or another party, it is important to consider taking steps to preserve evidence. Much of your case depends on the ability to have evidence and prove negligence. If you can, take pictures, talk to witnesses, and call for medical attention. If you cannot act for yourself, contact an attorney to help.

The experienced personal injury and medical malpractice attorneys at Trombly & Singer, PLLC are prepared to represent clients facing legal matters after being injured due to another person’s negligence. If you require strong legal representation in Washington D.C. or Maryland, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.