Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Maryland

Injury in the home

My friend 13yr old child climed up in my attic which is located in my dauther's bedroom closet and feel thru the attic/ceiling and hurt herself. Am I responsible for her medical bills even though the attic was not in easy access (no ladder) and was hidden in the closet where she had to stand on a hamper and climb on a shelf to get up there and she went up there w/out permission? I was not home but my 16yr was at home at the time which my friend was aware of


Asked on 4/01/08, 9:24 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert Sher Wagshal and Sher

Re: Injury in the home

Under the facts you present you shouldn't be held legally responsible for this, but you should notify your homeowner's insurance anyway just to protect yourself. A 13 year old is old enough to know better than to do something dangerous like this. If your 16 year old knew what was going on, shame on him/her for allowing this to happen.

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Answered on 4/02/08, 10:28 am
Paula McGill Attorney at Law

Re: Injury in the home

You didn't state if the child's parents made a demand for payment of medical bills. Because anyone can sue, you may be sued even if you have a defense. Review your homeowner's policy to see when you have to notify your insurance company of possible claims. If they make a claim or decide to sue, your insurance company will handle it (depending on your policy). Of course, you will have to think about premium increases or cancellation.

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Answered on 4/02/08, 11:59 am


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