The Ingram Firm, L.L.C.

Filing a workers’ comp vs third-party claim after a slip and fall

2026-10-28T16:04:54Z

Most workers assume that filing for workers' compensation is the only option after a workplace slip and fall. Depending on the circumstances of your injury, a third-party claim may also be available. In some cases, it can cover losses that workers' compensation does not. Understanding the difference between workers' compensation and a third-party claim could help support your recovery.

What workers' compensation covers

Maryland law requires most employers to carry workers' compensation insurance. This coverage pays for your medical treatment and replaces a portion of your lost wages. Workers' compensation does not require you to prove that anyone was at fault. The injury simply needs to have occurred during the course of your employment to qualify.

The limits of workers' compensation

Workers' compensation does not cover everything. For one, it does not include compensation for pain and suffering. Additionally, wage replacement for temporary total disability pays only two-thirds of your average weekly wage and is subject to a state maximum weekly cap. For many workers, these limitations create a significant financial gap.

When a third-party claim applies

A third-party claim is a personal injury lawsuit filed against another party besides your employer. For instance, if a property owner or contractor created a dangerous condition, that party may hold legal responsibility for your injuries. Unlike workers' compensation, a third-party claim allows you to seek damages for full wage loss, medical expenses and pain and suffering.

Filing both claims at the same time

Pursuing both a workers' compensation claim and a third-party claim at the same time is possible. However, the state allows this under specific circumstances. For example, if you were injured on a job site controlled by a property owner who is not your employer, that owner may bear separate legal responsibility. However, if your third-party claim results in a settlement, the workers' compensation insurer can recover the benefits it paid from that amount, minus its share of legal fees and costs

How contributory negligence affects slip and fall claims

Before filing a third-party claim, know this Maryland law that could affect your compensation. The state follows a contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, if a court finds you even slightly at fault for the slip and fall, your third-party claim may fail entirely. Since Maryland offers no partial recovery option, the way fault is determined in your case carries far more weight than it would in most other states.

Knowing your rights after a workplace slip and fall

Many slip and fall accident victims accept workers' compensation benefits without ever knowing a third-party claim is also available. That often means settling for partial wage replacement and no compensation for pain and suffering. Understanding both options before making any decisions protects you from accepting less than what your recovery demands.

Slipped on a wet floor? Why Maryland’s 1% rule matters

2026-09-24T15:11:50Z

A fall in a store or a lobby can be a jarring experience that leaves you with pain and bills. Beyond the physical toll of these incidents, the legal process in Maryland creates hurdles that make these cases uniquely challenging for victims compared to most other states. Understanding how the law views your actions at the time of the fall is a vital part of your recovery options.

How the one percent rule works

Maryland follows a strict rule known as pure contributory negligence. This means that if you are found even slightly responsible for your own injury, you can be barred from recovering any money from the property owner. Maryland is one of only four states that still uses this strict all-or-nothing standard. Even if the property owner was almost entirely to blame, being just one percent responsible can end a legal claim.

Small actions that change a legal outcome

During a slip-and-fall case, the property owner's defense will often look for any sign that you were not being careful. Even a small distraction can be used to argue that you contributed to the accident. Common factors that might influence a finding of fault include:

Walking while looking at a mobile phone instead of the path ahead
Ignoring visible warning signs or cones placed near a spill
Wearing shoes that are clearly unsafe for the specific weather conditions
Entering an area that was marked as off-limits to the public

These details are critical because the law requires you to exercise reasonable care for your own safety at all times.

Proving the owner was negligent

To succeed in a slip-and-fall claim, you generally must prove the property owner was negligent (for example, they created the hazard or had actual or constructive notice of it) and that their negligence caused your injuries. Because Maryland’s contributory negligence rule can bar recovery if you’re found even slightly at fault, evidence like photos, incident reports and witness information can be especially important. Maryland’s strict all-or-nothing rule means that even a tiny error can be used to block your recovery. Because the margin for error is so slim, having a lawyer to navigate these rules and deal with insurance companies is often essential.

Chapter 7 versus Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Maryland

2026-06-30T12:52:16Z

If you are struggling with debt in Maryland, filing for bankruptcy may help you get immediate relief from your creditors and offer you a fresh start. The two most common consumer bankruptcy options are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. While both can address overwhelming debt, they work in different ways. To help understand your options better, here are their key benefits and differences.

Understanding Chapter 7 bankruptcy

In a Chapter 7 case, a bankruptcy trustee may sell certain non-exempt assets to pay creditors. In many cases, however, people filing for Chapter 7 can keep most or all their property. This is because Maryland bankruptcy exemptions can help protect essential assets. Chapter 7 cases are usually completed within a few months. It can effectively eliminate many unsecured debts, such as credit card debt, medical bills and personal loans. However, not everyone can qualify. Your income and financial situation must fall within the requirements of the “means test.”

Understanding Chapter 13 bankruptcy

Also known as “reorganization bankruptcy,” Chapter 13 empowers you to create a repayment plan for all or part of your debt and typically lasts for three to five years. People filing for Chapter 13 make monthly payments to a trustee, who pays off the creditors according to the approved plan. Chapter 13 is often useful for people who have a stable income and want to catch up on car payments or other secured debts. It can also safeguard assets that might not be fully protected in a Chapter 7 case. However, unlike Chapter 7, which settles debts quickly, Chapter 13 is about managing them gradually.

Key differences

The primary difference between the two types of bankruptcy is how debt is managed. Chapter 7 focuses on discharge and is faster to complete, while Chapter 13 focuses on repayment through a court-approved plan. Eligibility is another key difference. Chapter 7 depends heavily on income and the means test, while Chapter 13 requires enough disposable income to fund the repayment plan. The more suitable option will depend on the individual’s income, assets, debt type and financial goals. For instance, if you need fast relief and qualify under the means test, Chapter 7 may be the better choice for your case. However, if you need more time to catch up on missed payments and want to safeguard your property, Chapter 13 may be the more appropriate one.

You deserve relief from your financial burdens

Bankruptcy is a serious legal process, and choosing the right chapter can have long-term consequences. If you are considering Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 in Maryland, a skilled bankruptcy lawyer can help you understand your rights, evaluate your options and guide you toward the next steps.

Damani was featured in the The Daily Record

2026-07-30T20:27:38Z

Spotlight on Local Leadership in The Daily Record

For over two decades, Damani Ingram has proven that top-tier legal representation and deep community roots go hand in hand. As the founder and managing partner of The Ingram Firm, LLC (with offices in Columbia and Largo, MD), Ingram has built a powerhouse boutique practice dedicated to personal injury, car accident, wrongful death, medical malpractice, civil rights, and consumer bankruptcy.

His approach is simple: meet people where they are and fight for outcomes that truly transform lives.

Driven by Advocacy & Excellence

A Columbia native, Ingram’s journey began with a degree in education from the University of Maryland, College Park, before earning his J.D. from the University of Baltimore School of Law. His sharp courtroom advocacy hasn't gone unnoticed:

Maryland Super Lawyer (Every year since 2017)
Top 100 National Black Lawyers (8 consecutive years)
National Trial Lawyers Top 100

Read the full article here

Hit by an uninsured driver in Maryland? 5 steps to immediately take

2026-06-01T13:52:55Z

Being hit by an uninsured driver in Maryland can leave accident victims feeling frustrated and uncertain about how their medical bills, lost wages and vehicle damage will be covered. Fortunately, Maryland law requires every auto insurance policy to include uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage, commonly called UM/UIM coverage. Knowing what steps to take immediately after a crash may help protect both your health and your financial recovery. The following are top five considerations to keep in mind.

1. Call 911 and seek medical attention

Even if injuries initially seem minor, some symptoms may worsen over time. A police report can also become critical evidence later, particularly if the at-fault driver lacks insurance or leaves the scene entirely. In Maryland, uninsured motorist claims also commonly apply to hit-and-run accidents where the responsible driver cannot be identified.

2. Document as much as possible

Take photographs of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions and visible injuries. Gather witness names and contact information if available. If the driver admits they do not have insurance, avoid arguing and document the interaction carefully. In hit-and-run cases, details such as vehicle descriptions, partial license plate numbers or nearby surveillance cameras may become extremely important.

3. Be cautious when communicating with insurance adjusters

Fourth, be cautious when communicating with insurance adjusters. Even your own insurance company may attempt to minimize payouts or dispute portions of your claim. Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting quick settlement offers before understanding the full extent of your injuries and damages.

4. Stay off your social media accounts

Especially if you may have grounds to file a claim against a business or a government entity for contributing to your harm, you need to keep your profile low right now. Stay off social media, as even a simple “like” of another’s post could be used as evidence that your claim isn’t as strong as it really is.

5. Consult a Maryland auto accident attorney

Uninsured motorist claims can become legally complicated, especially when serious injuries, disputed liability or long-term medical issues are involved. A skilled legal team can help investigate the crash, review available insurance coverage and negotiate with insurers on your behalf.

Will bankruptcy eliminate all of my debt in Maryland?

2026-05-13T14:43:49Z

If debt keeps piling up after a job loss, divorce, illness or another financial setback, you may start looking for a way to regain control. Collection calls may continue day after day, and you may worry about losing your home or falling behind on basic expenses. At some point, you may ask whether bankruptcy will erase everything you owe. In Maryland, bankruptcy can eliminate many types of debt, but it does not wipe out every financial obligation. The type of debt you have, the bankruptcy chapter you file and the details of your case will all affect the result. Even so, bankruptcy may give you relief from collection efforts and help you rebuild your financial life.

What debts bankruptcy may erase

Many people file bankruptcy because they can no longer keep up with unsecured debt. The following debts may qualify for discharge in Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy:

Credit card balances accumulated over time
Medical bills tied to treatment or emergencies
Personal loans from banks or lenders
Utility debt from unpaid household services
Lease balances connected to broken rental agreements
Civil court judgments in certain situations
Deficiency balances after repossession or foreclosure

A discharge means you will no longer have a legal duty to repay those debts. In many cases, creditors must stop collection efforts after your bankruptcy case begins.

Debts bankruptcy may not erase

Some debts usually remain after bankruptcy because federal law treats them differently. Child support, alimony and many recent tax debts will likely continue after your case ends. Most student loans also stay in place unless you meet a strict legal standard. Even if bankruptcy does not erase every debt, it may still help you regain financial control. Chapter 13 may allow you to repay certain obligations through a structured payment plan over several years while reducing pressure from creditors.

How Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 differ

Chapter 7 bankruptcy focuses on eliminating qualifying unsecured debt. This process usually moves faster, but not everyone qualifies based on income and other financial factors. Chapter 13 bankruptcy creates a repayment plan that usually lasts three to five years. You may consider this option when you face foreclosure or need time to catch up on missed payments while keeping certain property.

Bankruptcy may still provide meaningful relief

Bankruptcy will not erase every debt in every case, but it may still give you a chance to recover financially when bills become impossible to manage. For many people, the process creates breathing room and helps stop the constant stress caused by overwhelming debt. Before deciding what to do next, it helps to review your debts carefully and learn which bankruptcy option may fit your situation.

When can you sue a hospital for negligence in Maryland?

2026-03-10T10:52:39Z

Hospitals must provide a specific standard of care to every patient. When a healthcare provider fails this duty, the law identifies this as negligence. In Maryland, you can sue a hospital if its employees cause you harm through substandard medical treatment. To push for a claim, you should p rove that the provider’s mistake directly caused your injury or worsened your health.

Errors during surgical procedures

Surgeons sometimes commit grave errors like operating on the wrong body part. In other cases, medical teams accidentally leave surgical instruments or sponges inside a patient’s body. Maryland law recognizes these clear mistakes as a breach of professional duty. These errors often require additional surgeries and lead to physical pain or life-threatening infections.

Failure to diagnose serious illness

Hospital staff must recognize and act on red flags for critical conditions. A doctor might ignore symptoms of a heart attack or misinterpret a clear lab result for cancer. If a delay in diagnosis allows a disease to progress, the hospital bears legal responsibility. You must show that a competent professional would have identified the condition sooner under similar circumstances.

Dangerous medication mistakes

Nurses and pharmacists must verify the correct drug and dosage for every patient. A hospital commits negligence when it administers the wrong medication or ignores a documented allergy. These errors frequently cause organ damage, severe allergic reactions or even death. Victims can seek compensation when a hospital’s poor internal protocols lead to these preventable pharmacy mistakes.

The path toward justice

Maryland law requires victims to follow a strict legal process. You must file a Certificate of Qualified Expert within 90 days of starting your lawsuit. This document proves that a medical peer reviewed your case and found evidence of negligence. Missing this deadline or the three-year statute of limitations can end your case. A skilled legal advocate manages these complex rules and increase your chances of getting fair compensation for your claim.

The difference between misdiagnosis and failure to diagnose

2026-01-19T15:10:42Z

Diagnostic errors are a relatively common form of medical malpractice despite advances in diagnostic technology. Some patients seeking medical care struggle to even understand what causes their symptoms due to mistakes by their physicians. Physicians have to evaluate symptoms and determine what likely caused them. The diagnostic process is critical for ensuring that a patient receives appropriate treatment. That way, they can address the underlying medical condition that causes the symptoms, rather than simply trying to manage their symptoms. Professionals analyzing medical errors typically classify diagnostic errors into two main categories. Both the failure to diagnose patients and the misdiagnosis of patients are relatively common. Understanding the difference between the two can be beneficial for those who may have experienced medical malpractice.

Misdiagnosis involves reaching the wrong conclusion

Misdiagnosis is relatively common. An individual might present roughly the same symptoms when they have a viral respiratory infection and when they are in the early stages of lung cancer development. Misdiagnosis can be devastating for patients, as they may receive treatment that they do not actually require and not the treatment that could help address their symptoms.

The failure to diagnose is also common

When a doctor fails to diagnose a patient, they do not reach a diagnostic conclusion. They might tell the patient that the symptoms are in their head, when in reality they have irritable bowel syndrome or fibromyalgia that causes them debilitating pain. Failure to diagnose often occurs because of communication issues, inadequate testing or a doctor allowing their bias about certain groups to affect how much they trust their patients. The failure to diagnose a patient means that they do not receive treatment to control their symptoms. Diagnostic errors can lead to a far worse prognosis for the patient involved. In many cases, diagnostic errors only come to light after a person dies and undergoes an autopsy. If another physician with the same information could accurately diagnose the patient, then the misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose that occurred could constitute medical malpractice. Both patients harmed by diagnostic errors and grieving families mourning a preventable loss may have grounds to take legal action. Filing a medical malpractice lawsuit in response to diagnostic errors can potentially compensate those affected and may even protect others from experiencing similar mistakes.

Winter driving tips for Maryland

2026-03-02T08:02:21Z

As the temperatures drop in Maryland and the roads are paved with snow, driving can become more difficult. And it is important to know that driving safely under such conditions also involve fulfilling a legal obligation of care as required by state law.

Avoid driving in a snow emergency

Winter storms are often unpredictable, turning a previously safe road into a hazardous one within hours. If you can, stay home during severe weather conditions. If travel is necessary, ensure your car has sufficient fuel and is in good mechanical condition.

Reducing speed regardless of the limit

The most common cause of winter accidents is driving "too fast for conditions." The posted speed limit represents the maximum under perfect conditions but when roads are icy or covered with snow, it is your responsibility to significantly reduce your speed. Failing to slow down on icy roads and causing an accident constitutes a legal breach of this obligation.

A quick double check

Before leaving your driveway, you should make sure your headlights and wipers are functioning properly. Maryland Transportation Code requires that these elements are in working order if the weather is bad. Clearing your vehicle from ice and snow is also a must, as this can avoid the dreaded “ice missiles”, which might cause an accident if they fly off your car.

Be mindful of snow plows

While snow plows and salt trucks are helpful, they can be slow-moving. Even in such cases, refrain from passing them. Due to their limited visibility, you could end up stuck at the side or in a collision with them. Maintain a safe distance to prevent accidents. If you have been injured in an accident caused by another driver's failure to adapt to Maryland's winter conditions, contact a lawyer specializing in personal injury, they can help you build a case and seek compensation if needed.

Don’t do these 5 things after a car crash

2025-11-15T11:35:41Z

The choices that people make immediately after car crashes can have a profound influence on what happens next. Unfortunately, people often feel shaken up and confused after car crashes, putting them at risk of mistakes that could affect their legal rights and financial protection. There are certain mistakes that people frequently make after car wrecks that can lead to inaccurate investigation results and challenges when seeking compensation from the driver at fault. What mistakes should drivers try to avoid immediately after a collision?

1. Moving the vehicles immediately

Generally speaking, those involved in a car crash do need to move their vehicles to prevent additional collisions and traffic congestion. Moving the vehicles may be important for safety, but drivers can pause for a moment to document the scene of the crash for their own protection. Taking photographs or recording video showing the placement of the vehicles and any debris can help facilitate an accurate crash investigation.

2. Agreeing not to report

State statutes generally require that people file police reports for collisions that injure people or disable vehicles. However, drivers who are at fault for collisions frequently want to avoid responsibility if they can. They may ask the other party to handle the matter privately, which can cause major complications later if they do not uphold their promises.

3. Leaving the scene

Some people might assume that a rear-end crash was minor and that they don't need to stop or interact with the other driver. While they may not have been at fault, leaving the scene could constitute a legal violation. Even when the collision seems minor, stopping to exchange information and report the matter to the police is typically of the utmost importance. Otherwise, the other driver controls the narrative.

4. Choosing not to see a doctor

People who choose not to see a doctor after a crash may have internal injuries that worsen over time. They may also have a more challenging process ahead if they must seek compensation for their injuries later.

5. Accepting the first settlement offer

Trying to negotiate with insurance companies can be quite stressful. Those offered a settlement often accept it quickly without questioning or countering it. Unfortunately, they may ultimately receive less compensation than they deserve if they do not validate their losses and what the policy could cover before accepting that settlement. Working with a personal injury attorney makes it possible for people to limit the long-term fallout of a recent motor vehicle collision. Drivers who know what mistakes to avoid can make choices that limit their legal and financial exposure after a wreck.