Yellow wet floor caution sign on a tiled floor in a cafeteria or dining area.

A fall can lead to broken bones, long recoveries, and mounting bills. The Law Office of William Burgess PA helps slip and fall victims in La Plata and across Southern Maryland. Our slip and fall lawyers handle injury claims against property owners, stores, and landlords. There is no fee unless we recover money for you.

What Is a Slip and Fall Case? 

A slip and fall case is a type of premises liability claim. Property owners must keep their property reasonably safe. They must fix hazards or warn people about them.



If an owner knew about a danger, or should have known, and did nothing, the owner may be responsible. That can include stores, restaurants, apartment complexes, and office buildings.

Common Causes of Falls 

  • Broken stairs or loose handrails
  • Icy parking lots and sidewalks
  • Poor lighting in halls and lots
  • Spills in stores and restaurants
  • Torn carpet or uneven flooring
  • Wet or freshly mopped floors

Common Injuries From Falls 

A fall can hurt more than you expect. Pain may build over the next few days. Common injuries include:

  • Broken wrists, hips, and ankles
  • Back and neck injuries
  • Head injuries and concussions
  • Torn ligaments and sprains


Older adults often face a higher risk of serious harm. See a doctor, even if you think you are fine.

Proving a Slip and Fall Claim 

You must show that the owner knew or should have known about the hazard. Evidence matters. It may include:

  • Photos of the spot where you fell
  • The store's incident report
  • Surveillance video
  • Names of people who saw the fall
  • Maintenance and cleaning records
  • Your medical records


Property owners often argue that you were not watching your step. Maryland follows contributory negligence. If a court finds you even slightly at fault, you may lose your claim. A strong case takes careful work.

Falls on Government Property 

Did you fall on county, town, or state property? Special rules may apply. Notice deadlines can be much shorter than three years, sometimes as short as 180 days. Missing a deadline may end your claim. Call us quickly.

What to Do After a Fall 

  1. Get medical care, even if the pain seems small.
  2. Report the fall to the owner or manager. Ask for a written report.
  3. Take photos of the hazard, the area, and your injuries.
  4. Get contact details for anyone who saw the fall.
  5. Keep your shoes and clothes from that day.
  6. Call us before you talk with an insurance company.

How We Help 

William Burgess has more than 30 years of experience in Southern Maryland. He also worked on the insurance side of injury claims. We use that knowledge to build strong cases. Most Maryland injury claims have a three-year filing deadline. Evidence fades fast, so please call soon.

Common Questions About Slip and Fall Claims 

  • Do I Have a Case if I Fell in a Store?

    Maybe. It depends on why you fell and what the store knew. A spill that sat for hours may help your case. We review the facts and tell you honestly where you stand.

  • Can I Make a Claim if I Fell at a Rental Home?

    Possibly. Landlords may be responsible for common areas, such as stairs, halls, and parking lots. Tell us where you fell and what caused it.

Hurt in a fall in La Plata or nearby? Call (301) 645-3261 for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win.