• 17
  • August
    2011

When something as horrific as last weekend's concert stage collapse in Indiana occurs it's only natural to focus on getting back to normal. Five people died in the collapse and more than 40 others were injured. Who is thinking about lawsuits over personal injury or wrongful death? Maryland attorneys with experience in this area of the law know it can be a mistake to put the issue off too long.

The moment that stage went down in the face of severe weather a clock started ticking toward a number of deadlines. Under Indiana law, victims and families have just nine months to file the necessary papers to claim medical expenses or payments for loss of life. The state then has 90 days to respond to the claim. If it rejects the claim, then a lawsuit can begin.

Action against private companies involved in the accident, such as the concert's promoter or the company that set up the stage, can be filed as long as two years out from the date of the collapse. But claims against the city or county where it happened have to be filed within 180 days. In addition, the state law caps damages at a maximum of $5 million.

What this points to is that while it may be painful, individuals who feel they have a claim for personal injury or the wrongful death of a loved one as the result of an accident should commit to taking action early. Every state is different when it comes to these kinds of things and an experienced lawyer in Maryland can help make sure that all sensitive time frames are met and that those found to be responsible for the damages are held as fully accountable as possible.

Source: WRTV6, "Stage Collapse Lawsuits Could Cost State Millions," Aug. 16, 2011