Boston Slip and Fall Attorneys

At Harrington & Harrington, we represent individuals who have been injured due to unsafe conditions on another party’s property. Premises liability law holds property owners and managers accountable when their negligence causes harm. Whether your accident occurred in a grocery store, office building, restaurant, or on public property, we are here to fight for you.

Our Boston slip and fall attorneys have handled cases involving:

Wet or Slippery Floors

Wet or slippery floors are one of the most common causes of slip and fall accidents, and they can lead to serious injuries if not addressed promptly. Property owners and managers have a legal obligation to maintain safe conditions on their premises, which includes taking immediate action to address hazards like spills, leaks, and wet floors. Unfortunately, these preventable accidents continue to occur when businesses and property owners fail to take the necessary precautions to protect visitors, customers, and employees.

The Responsibility of Property Owners

Under premises liability law, property owners are required to ensure that their premises are safe for anyone who enters. This includes:

• Prompt Cleanup of Spills: Spills from beverages, cleaning products, or other liquids must be cleaned up as soon as they are noticed. Delays in addressing these hazards can create dangerous conditions for unsuspecting visitors.
• Repairing Leaks: Leaks from plumbing, roofs, or appliances can create slippery surfaces. Property owners must repair leaks promptly and take temporary measures, such as placing warning signs or barriers, to prevent accidents until the issue is resolved.
• Proper Maintenance: Floors should be regularly inspected and maintained to prevent hazards. This includes ensuring that cleaning procedures do not leave floors excessively wet or slippery without proper warning.
• Adequate Warning Signs: When wet floors cannot be immediately addressed, property owners must provide clear and visible warning signs, such as “Caution: Wet Floor” signs, to alert people to the potential danger.

Why Wet or Slippery Floors Are Dangerous

Slippery floors may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can lead to severe injuries, especially for older adults, children, or individuals with mobility challenges. Common injuries resulting from slip and fall accidents on wet floors include:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: Falls on hard surfaces can result in broken wrists, arms, hips, or ankles, often requiring surgery and lengthy recovery periods.
• Head Injuries: Slipping and falling backward can lead to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, or other head trauma, which may have long-term effects on cognitive and physical abilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: A fall on a wet floor can cause damage to the spine, leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, or even paralysis in severe cases.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and torn ligaments are common in slip and fall accidents, often requiring physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Common Locations for Wet Floor Accidents

Wet or slippery floor accidents can happen anywhere, but they are particularly common in the following locations:

• Grocery Stores: Spills from liquids, broken containers, or melting ice can create hazardous conditions in aisles. Failure to clean up these spills or provide warning signs can lead to accidents.
• Restaurants and Cafes: Spilled drinks, food, or grease can make floors dangerously slippery. High foot traffic in these establishments increases the likelihood of accidents.
• Office Buildings: Wet floors in lobbies, hallways, or restrooms are common hazards, especially during rainy or snowy weather when water is tracked indoors.
• Hotels: Wet floors near pools, spas, or in bathrooms can pose significant risks to guests if not properly maintained.
• Public Spaces: Parks, sidewalks, and other public areas can become slippery due to rain, snow, or poor maintenance, putting pedestrians at risk.

Preventing Wet Floor Accidents

Preventing slip and fall accidents caused by wet floors requires proactive measures by property owners and managers. These measures include:

1. Regular Inspections: Conducting routine inspections of the premises to identify and address potential hazards.
2. Immediate Cleanup: Cleaning up spills and leaks as soon as they are discovered.
3. Proper Signage: Placing visible warning signs in areas where floors are wet or slippery.
4. Non-Slip Flooring: Installing non-slip mats or flooring in areas prone to spills or moisture, such as kitchens, restrooms, and entryways.
5. Employee Training: Training staff to recognize and address hazards promptly, as well as to follow proper cleaning procedures.

Legal Accountability for Wet Floor Accidents

When property owners fail to address wet or slippery floors and someone is injured as a result, they can be held legally accountable for their negligence. To establish liability in a slip and fall case, the injured party must prove:

1. The Existence of a Hazard: There was a wet or slippery condition on the property that posed a danger.
2. Knowledge of the Hazard: The property owner or manager knew or should have known about the hazard.
3. Failure to Address the Hazard: The property owner failed to take reasonable steps to address the hazard or provide adequate warning.
4. Injury Resulting from the Hazard: The hazardous condition directly caused the injury.

How Harrington & Harrington Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip-and-fall accident caused by a wet or slippery floor, the attorneys at Harrington & Harrington are here to help. Our team will:

• Conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, such as surveillance footage, maintenance records, and witness statements.
• Work with medical experts to assess the extent of your injuries and calculate the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
• Take your case to court if necessary, fighting aggressively to hold negligent property owners accountable.

Top Rated Slip and Fall Attorneys in Boston, MA

Wet or slippery floors are a preventable hazard, yet they continue to cause serious injuries due to negligence. Property owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions and protect visitors from harm. If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Harrington & Harrington today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Icy and Snow-Covered Walkways

Boston winters are notorious for their harsh conditions, with snowstorms and freezing temperatures creating treacherous environments for pedestrians. Icy sidewalks, parking lots, and staircases are among the most dangerous hazards during the winter months, often leading to slip-and-fall accidents that can result in severe injuries. Property owners in Massachusetts have a legal obligation to address these hazards promptly, ensuring that their premises are safe for visitors, tenants, and the general public. When they fail to meet this responsibility, they can be held accountable for the injuries and damages that occur as a result.

The Legal Obligation to Clear Snow and Ice

Massachusetts law requires property owners to take reasonable steps to remove snow and ice from their premises within a reasonable amount of time after a storm. This legal duty applies to both private and public property owners, including homeowners, landlords, business owners, and municipalities. The goal is to prevent dangerous conditions that could lead to slip and fall accidents.

Key aspects of this legal obligation include:

• Timely Snow Removal: Property owners must clear snow from walkways, driveways, parking lots, and other areas where people are likely to walk. Delays in snow removal can lead to the formation of ice, increasing the risk of accidents.
• De-Icing Measures: In addition to removing snow, property owners are expected to take measures to prevent ice from forming. This may include applying salt, sand, or other de-icing agents to walkways and stairs.
• Ongoing Maintenance: Snow and ice removal is not a one-time task. Property owners must continue to monitor and address icy conditions as they develop, especially during periods of fluctuating temperatures when melting and refreezing can occur.
• Reasonable Efforts: While property owners are not expected to eliminate every trace of snow and ice, they are required to make reasonable efforts to ensure their premises are safe. Failure to do so can result in liability for injuries.

Common Locations for Icy Walkway Accidents

Slip and fall accidents caused by icy and snow-covered walkways can happen in a variety of locations, including:

• Sidewalks: Public and private sidewalks are common sites for winter-related accidents. Property owners are responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to their property.
• Parking Lots: Icy parking lots pose significant risks to pedestrians, especially when snow is not properly plowed or ice is not treated.
• Staircases: Outdoor staircases can become extremely hazardous when covered in snow or ice. Broken or missing handrails can exacerbate the danger.
• Building Entrances: The areas immediately outside building entrances are particularly prone to icy conditions due to foot traffic and melting snow from shoes.
• Public Spaces: Parks, plazas, and other public areas can become dangerous if municipalities fail to address snow and ice accumulation.

The Dangers of Icy Walkways

Icy and snow-covered walkways are more than just an inconvenience—they are a serious safety hazard. Slip and fall accidents on icy surfaces can result in a wide range of injuries, including:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: Falls on hard, icy surfaces often lead to broken wrists, arms, ankles, and hips, particularly among older adults.
• Head Injuries: Slipping on ice can cause victims to hit their heads, resulting in concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or other head trauma.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls on icy walkways can cause damage to the spine, leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, or even paralysis in severe cases.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and torn ligaments are common in slip and fall accidents, often requiring physical therapy and rehabilitation.
• Cuts and Bruises: Sharp ice or jagged edges can cause lacerations, while the impact of a fall can result in painful bruising.

Proving Liability in Icy Walkway Cases

To hold a property owner accountable for injuries caused by icy or snow-covered walkways, the injured party must prove that the property owner was negligent. This typically involves demonstrating the following:

1. The Existence of a Hazard: There was an icy or snow-covered condition on the property that posed a danger to pedestrians.
2. Knowledge of the Hazard: The property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition. For example, if the icy condition existed for an extended period, the property owner may be presumed to have been aware of it.
3. Failure to Address the Hazard: The property owner failed to take reasonable steps to remove the snow or ice or to warn visitors of the danger.
4. Injury Resulting from the Hazard: The hazardous condition directly caused the injury.

How Harrington & Harrington Can Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident caused by icy or snow-covered walkways, the attorneys at Harrington & Harrington are here to help. Our experienced team understands the complexities of premises liability cases and will work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist you:

• Thorough Investigation: We will gather evidence, including photographs of the icy conditions, witness statements, and maintenance records, to build a strong case.
• Expert Analysis: Our team works with experts, such as meteorologists and safety professionals, to establish whether the property owner failed to meet their legal obligations.
• Proving Damages: We collaborate with medical professionals to assess the full extent of your injuries and calculate the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny liability. Our attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with insurers to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
• Litigation Support: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our skilled litigators will fight aggressively to hold negligent property owners accountable.

Preventing Icy Walkway Accidents

While property owners have a legal duty to address icy conditions, pedestrians can also take steps to protect themselves during the winter months. These include:

• Wearing footwear with good traction.
• Walking slowly and carefully on icy surfaces.
• Using handrails when available.
• Avoid distractions, such as looking at a phone, while walking.

If You Have Questions About an Injury Call Our Boston Injury Law Firm Now

Icy and snow-covered walkways are a significant hazard during Boston’s harsh winters, but these accidents are often preventable with proper maintenance and care. Property owners have a legal obligation to address these conditions promptly, and when they fail to do so, they can be held accountable for the injuries that result. If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident caused by icy walkways, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Harrington & Harrington today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Poorly Maintained Staircases

Poorly maintained staircases are a significant safety hazard that can lead to devastating accidents. Defects such as broken or uneven steps, loose or missing handrails, inadequate lighting, or slippery surfaces can create dangerous conditions for anyone using the stairs. These hazards are especially risky for older adults, children, and individuals with mobility challenges, who may already be more vulnerable to falls. Property owners have a legal obligation to ensure that staircases on their premises are safe and properly maintained. When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for injuries that occur as a result of their negligence.

The Consequences of Staircase Accidents

Falls on defective staircases can result in severe injuries, many of which require extensive medical treatment and long-term recovery. Common injuries include:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: Falls on stairs often lead to broken wrists, arms, ankles, or hips, particularly when someone tries to break their fall.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: A fall down a staircase can cause serious damage to the spine, leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, or even paralysis in extreme cases.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Falling on stairs can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, or other head trauma, which may have lasting physical and cognitive effects.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and torn ligaments are common in staircase accidents and can require physical therapy to heal.
• Internal Injuries: The impact of a fall can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, which may not be immediately apparent.

Holding Property Owners Accountable

At Harrington & Harrington, we understand the devastating impact that staircase accidents can have on your life. Property owners are responsible for ensuring that staircases are safe for use, which includes regular inspections, timely repairs, and adherence to building codes. When they fail to meet these obligations, they put others at risk. Our experienced attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, gathering evidence such as photographs, maintenance records, and witness statements to prove negligence. We will fight to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages you’ve incurred.

Preventing Staircase Accidents

While property owners are ultimately responsible for maintaining safe staircases, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Always use handrails when available, watch for uneven or broken steps, and avoid distractions like looking at your phone while using stairs. If you notice a hazardous condition, report it to the property owner or manager immediately to help prevent accidents.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a poorly maintained staircase, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Harrington & Harrington today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Uneven or Damaged Surfaces

Uneven or damaged surfaces, such as cracked sidewalks, broken pavement, uneven flooring, and potholes, are among the most frequent causes of slip and fall accidents. These hazards can be found in a variety of locations, including public sidewalks, parking lots, retail stores, office buildings, and residential properties. When property owners fail to address these issues, they create dangerous conditions that put pedestrians at risk of serious injury. Even a seemingly minor defect, such as a small crack or a slightly raised surface, can cause someone to trip and fall, leading to significant physical and financial consequences.

The Dangers of Uneven or Damaged Surfaces

Falls caused by uneven or damaged surfaces can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to life-altering conditions. Common injuries include:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: Tripping on a cracked sidewalk or uneven floor can lead to broken wrists, arms, ankles, or hips, especially when the victim tries to break their fall.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Falls on hard surfaces can result in concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which may have long-term effects on cognitive and physical abilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: A fall caused by a pothole or uneven flooring can damage the spine, leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, or even paralysis in severe cases.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and torn ligaments are common in slip and fall accidents and often require physical therapy and rehabilitation.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Sharp edges on broken pavement or jagged surfaces can cause deep cuts, which may require stitches or lead to infections.

Property Owners’ Responsibility

Property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. This includes repairing cracks, potholes, and other surface defects in a timely manner, as well as providing adequate warnings about hazards that cannot be immediately fixed. For example, a property owner might place warning signs or barriers around a damaged area until repairs can be made. When property owners neglect this duty, they can be held liable for injuries that occur as a result of their negligence.

Proving Liability in Uneven Surface Cases

To hold a property owner accountable for injuries caused by uneven or damaged surfaces, it must be shown that:

1. A Hazard Existed: There was a dangerous condition, such as a crack, pothole, or uneven surface, that posed a risk to pedestrians.
2. The Property Owner Knew or Should Have Known About the Hazard: The property owner was aware of the dangerous condition or should have been aware through regular inspections and maintenance.
3. The Hazard Was Not Addressed: The property owner failed to repair the hazard or provide adequate warnings in a reasonable amount of time.
4. The Hazard Caused the Injury: The dangerous condition directly led to the slip and fall accident and resulting injuries.

How Harrington & Harrington Can Help

At Harrington & Harrington, we understand the challenges that come with recovering from a slip and fall accident caused by uneven or damaged surfaces. Our experienced attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your fall, gathering evidence such as photographs of the hazard, witness statements, and maintenance records to build a strong case. We will work tirelessly to prove liability and secure fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Preventing Accidents on Uneven Surfaces

While property owners are ultimately responsible for maintaining safe walkways, pedestrians can take steps to protect themselves. Always watch where you are walking, avoid distractions like texting, and wear appropriate footwear with good traction. If you notice a hazardous condition, report it to the property owner or manager to help prevent accidents.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to uneven or damaged surfaces, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Harrington & Harrington today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Inadequate Lighting

Inadequate lighting is a common yet often overlooked hazard that can lead to serious accidents and injuries. Poor lighting in areas such as stairwells, parking garages, sidewalks, hallways, and other walkways can make it difficult for individuals to see potential dangers, such as uneven surfaces, obstacles, or wet floors. This lack of visibility significantly increases the risk of slips, trips, and falls, as well as other accidents. Property owners have a legal obligation to ensure that their premises are well-lit and safe for visitors. When they fail to meet this responsibility, they put others at risk of harm.

The Risks of Poor Lighting

Poor lighting can create dangerous conditions in a variety of settings. For example:

• Stairwells: Dim or non-functioning lights in stairwells can make it difficult to see steps clearly, increasing the likelihood of missteps and falls.
• Parking Garages and Lots: Insufficient lighting in parking areas not only makes it hard to see hazards like potholes or uneven pavement but can also create an environment where other dangers, such as criminal activity, are more likely to occur.
• Sidewalks and Walkways: Poorly lit sidewalks and pathways can obscure cracks, uneven surfaces, or debris, leading to trips and falls.
• Building Entrances and Hallways: Dim lighting in entryways or corridors can make it difficult to navigate safely, especially for individuals with limited mobility or vision impairments.

Injuries Caused by Inadequate Lighting

Accidents caused by poor lighting can result in a wide range of injuries, including:

• Fractures and Broken Bones: Falls due to unseen hazards can lead to broken wrists, arms, ankles, or hips.
• Head and Brain Injuries: A fall in a poorly lit area can result in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or concussions, which may have long-term effects on a person’s health and well-being.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Falling down stairs or tripping over unseen obstacles can cause serious spinal injuries, leading to chronic pain or even paralysis.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and torn ligaments are common in accidents caused by poor visibility.
• Cuts and Bruises: Tripping over unseen hazards can result in cuts, scrapes, and bruises, some of which may require medical attention.

Property Owners’ Responsibility

Property owners are required to maintain adequate lighting on their premises to ensure the safety of visitors. This includes installing proper lighting fixtures, replacing burnt-out bulbs, and conducting regular inspections to identify and address lighting issues. When property owners neglect these responsibilities, they can be held liable for accidents and injuries that occur as a result of inadequate lighting.

Proving Liability in Inadequate Lighting Cases

To hold a property owner accountable for injuries caused by poor lighting, it must be demonstrated that:

1. The Lighting Was Insufficient: The area where the accident occurred was poorly lit, creating a hazardous condition.
2. The Property Owner Knew or Should Have Known About the Issue: The property owner was aware of the inadequate lighting or should have been aware through regular inspections and maintenance.
3. The Hazard Was Not Addressed: The property owner failed to fix the lighting issue or provide warnings about the danger in a reasonable amount of time.
4. The Poor Lighting Caused the Injury: The lack of adequate lighting directly contributed to the accident and resulting injuries.

How Harrington & Harrington Can Help

At Harrington & Harrington, we understand the serious consequences that accidents caused by inadequate lighting can have on your life. Our experienced attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident, gathering evidence such as photographs of the poorly lit area, maintenance records, and witness statements to build a strong case. We will work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Preventing Accidents in Poorly Lit Areas

While property owners are ultimately responsible for maintaining proper lighting, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Always carry a flashlight or use your phone’s flashlight feature when walking in dimly lit areas, and pay close attention to your surroundings. If you notice inadequate lighting in a public or private space, report it to the property owner or manager to help prevent accidents.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to inadequate lighting, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Harrington & Harrington today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.