Slip and fall accidents are common, but responsible businesses in Baltimore County take proactive measures to ensure their spaces are safe for customers and employees. At the minimum, they work diligently to maintain full compliance with Maryland law, the Baltimore County Building Code, and other local regulations.
However, there are other owners who shirk their duty to keep reasonably safe premises. The chance of slip and fall accidents increases, and the resulting injuries can lead to significant losses. A business could be liable for failures and neglecting to prioritize safety, and an Owings Mills slip and fall lawyer can assist with pursuing the at-fault party. You can also read on to learn how smart businesses prevent these accidents.
Duties of Property Owners and Operators
To reduce the risk of slips and falls, responsible Baltimore County businesses employ a variety of safety practices. First, they ensure floors are clean, dry, and free of hazards. This includes promptly addressing spills, fixing uneven surfaces, and placing wet floor signs when necessary.
Lighting is another critical factor. Well-lit areas, especially in stairwells and hallways, reduce the chances of accidents. Additionally, a business that takes its safety obligations seriously will:
- Conduct regular inspections of floors, walkways, aisles, and staircases
- Install appropriate locks at gates, doors, and windows
- Ensure proper maintenance of electrical systems
- Implement signage and warning labels for dangerous conditions on property
- Remove of hazards like spills, debris, and uneven surfaces
- Coordinate security measures in light of criminal activity, such as guards and security cameras
Businesses also train their staff on the importance of safety protocols, making it a team effort to prevent accidents before they happen.
Premises Liability Defenses
There is a key reason that it is important to know the measures businesses implement to keep the space safe, and it relates to defenses. If a company can show that it complied with all codes and took significant steps to prevent slip and falls, you might need to develop a strategy to overcome this defense.
Also, businesses could apply other defenses against these claims. For example:
- If you were not paying attention or ignored posted warnings, the business might argue that the accident was your fault.
- When a dangerous condition was open and obvious, or if the business took reasonable steps to correct the hazard, liability might be reduced
- If you were trespassing, the owner might escape liability because you were present illegally.
A knowledgeable slip and fall attorney can help determine if a victim has a strong case and navigate the complexities of Maryland’s premises liability laws.
A Baltimore County Slip and Fall Attorney Will Assist With Your Remedies
At the Law Offices of Michael A. Freedman, our experienced attorneys are committed to helping victims pursue justice in premises liability cases. We are here to assist with all steps in the legal process, so please contact us for a free consultation to learn more about your rights. You can call 410.363.6848 or go online to reach our offices in Owings Mills or Glen Burnie, MD.
