Property owners, landlords, and businesses must keep the places they control reasonably safe. When they let a leak turn into mold, leave ice on a walkway, ignore a broken stair or railing, or let a wet floor go unmarked, people get hurt. Christopher L. Beard represents Maryland tenants, customers, and visitors injured by unsafe property.
Most of Chris Beard's practice involves premises claims. Toxic mold in a rental home is a premises claim, because the landlord controls the building and must repair the water problems that feed the growth. Falls on ice, broken stairs, failed railings, and wet floors in stores raise the same question: did the owner know of the hazard and fail to act?
Read more about these claims:
Under Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article Section 5-101, a person generally must file a Maryland injury claim within three years. Owners often repair hazards quickly, so photographs and written reports made right away carry the most weight. To discuss a premises claim, e-mail chris@attorneybeard.com or call (410) 267-0227.
Tip No. 1: If you are in an accident, obtain the other driver's name, address, phone number, tag number, and insurance information. Also get the investigating officer's name and the report number. Do not admit fault, because fault depends on both the facts and the law.
Tip No. 2: Do not give a recorded interview to the other driver's insurance company. Take down the caller's name and number, and say you will respond after you understand your rights.
Tip No. 3: Maryland insurers must offer personal injury protection (PIP) coverage of at least $2,500. PIP generally pays reasonable medical bills caused by the accident and 85% of lost wages, up to the coverage amount. Your lawyer can help you complete the forms.
Tip No. 4: Photograph the damaged vehicles, the scene, and your injuries.
Tip No. 5: Keep a file of all bills, estimates, and correspondence, along with a list of your medical providers and expenses.
Tip No. 6: Keep a log of the ways your injury has affected you at home, at work, and elsewhere. It will help months later, when memory fades.
Tip No. 7: Contact a lawyer promptly. A lawyer can organize your information, contact your doctors and the insurance adjusters, and keep your PIP benefits from being delayed.
