Maryland applies strict premises liability rules to slip and fall cases, where property owners must maintain safe conditions and warn of hazards like wet floors or uneven surfaces. Fault hinges on proving the owner’s negligence without any victim contribution due to the state’s contributory negligence doctrine, which bars recovery if you’re even slightly at fault. Compensation covers medical bills, lost wages, and pain if liability is established, typically within a three-year statute of limitations.​
Establishing Fault
Property owners owe invitees (customers) a duty to inspect and fix known or foreseeable dangers, such as spills or ice buildup. Plaintiffs must show four elements: duty existed, owner breached it (e.g., no warning sign), breach caused the fall, and injuries resulted. Contributory negligence is a major hurdle—if evidence like ignoring a visible hazard exists, no damages are awarded, even if the owner was 99% responsible.​
Compensation Potential
Successful claims yield economic damages (bills, wages) and non-economic (pain, suffering), with settlements averaging $30,000-$60,000 for moderate injuries but higher for severe cases. Open and notorious hazards (obvious spills) reduce owner liability, while hidden defects strengthen claims. Evidence like photos, witness statements, and maintenance logs proves notice of the hazard.​
Key Defenses and Tips
Owners defend by arguing “no notice” of the hazard or plaintiff’s negligence (e.g., distracted phone use). Report incidents immediately, seek medical care, and avoid admitting fault at the scene. Government properties have shorter notice periods; consult local rules for claims against state entities.​
