Property owners in Rhode Island and Massachusetts are required to maintain safe conditions on their premises whenever visitors can be reasonably expected. If they fail to do so, and a slip-and-fall accident occurs, they can be held liable. To hold a property owner liable for a slip and fall accident, it must be established that they knew, or should have known, of a dangerous condition which caused the fall. As such, it is critical that photographs are taken of the condition that caused the fall. These photographs will be key evidence in establishing that the dangerous condition existed and that the property owner was, or should have been, aware of its existence.
There are numerous reasons a slip and fall accident can occur. The most common causes of slip and fall accidents are the following:
- Ice and snow
- Slipping and falling down a flight of stairs
- Falling on dangerous or defective patches of pavement or ground
- Slipping on liquids, food, or other items left on the floor
- Unsafe building designs
- Lack of a proper handrail
Slip and fall cases can be complex and establishing liability can be difficult. An experienced New Bedford slip and fall attorney can help ease the burden and maximize your recovery. For example, situations may arise where there are multiple dangerous conditions which may have contributed to your accident. As a result, multiple people and/or entities may be liable for your injuries. Due to complex layers of responsibility, it is crucial to have an experienced New Bedford slip and fall accident lawyer on your side.
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, including supermarkets, parking lots, gas stations, sidewalks, hotels, restaurants, apartment complexes, and private homes. If you fall and are injured, you may be left asking who is responsible for your injuries. In a slip and fall case, the liable party is typically one of the following:
Property owner – A property owner has a legal duty to keep the premises safe for tenants and visitors.
Commercial lessees – Business owners who lease premises have a similar duty to keep visitors safe as the actual property owner and may be liable in many situations.
Municipalities – Government owned properties fall into their own special category where slip and fall cases are concerned. Though it is difficult, it is possible to file a lawsuit against a municipality.
Maintenance companies – A company that is hired to perform a certain task, such as snow plowing, can be found liable if it is established that they were negligent in the performance of the job.
If you were injured in an Slip and Fall in New Bedford, an experienced slip and fall lawyer might be able to help. Call Ed at Mazzaferro Law today at (401) 335-0078 or complete our contact form for a free consultation.