Massachusetts Slip and Fall Injury on Commercial Property

In Massachusetts, slip and fall accidents on commercial property are one of the most common reasons for filing a personal injury claim. Serious injuries, expensive medical bills, and long recovery times can result from slip and fall accidents. Understanding your legal rights to protect yourself and your right to pursue compensation is essential. At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we’re here to guide you through personal injury claims involving slip and fall accidents.

What Is a Slip and Fall Accident on Commercial Property?

When someone loses their footing due to a hazardous condition on another party’s premises and is injured, this is known as a slip and fall accident. On commercial property, this might include:

• Wet or slippery floors
• Poor lighting
• Broken or uneven flooring
• Unshoveled ice or snow
• Loose mats or rugs
• Debris or spilled substances

In Massachusetts, property owners—including businesses, landlords, and store operators—have a legal duty to maintain safe premises for lawful visitors. Victims have the right to pursue a personal injury claim when they fail to do so and that negligence causes an injury. At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we have years of experience helping clients injured in slip and fall accidents on commercial properties throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Massachusetts Slip and Fall Injury and Premises Liability Law and Duty of Care

Massachusetts follows the legal principle of premises liability, which holds property owners responsible for maintaining reasonably safe conditions. Under Massachusetts law, commercial property owners owe a duty of reasonable care to individuals legally on their property to prevent injuries to visitors, such as:

• Customers at a retail store
• Tenants in commercial buildings
• Employees or contractors
• Guests or vendors

This duty includes the responsibility to:

• Regularly inspect the property for hazards
• Fix dangerous conditions promptly
• Warn visitors of known dangers

Duty of reasonable care means that property owners must take appropriate steps to keep their property safe and fix hazards they know about or should know about. Failure to uphold this duty may constitute negligence. If a property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to address it, they may be liable for any resulting injuries.

Key Legal Elements in a Massachusetts Slip and Fall Injury Case

To succeed in a Massachusetts personal injury claim for a slip and fall accident on commercial property, the injured party (plaintiff) must prove the following:

1. Duty of Care: The property owner owed a duty to keep the premises safe.
2. Breach of Duty: The property owner failed to fulfill this duty.
3. Causation: The unsafe condition directly caused the slip and fall accident.
4. Damages: The plaintiff suffered actual injuries and losses (e.g., medical bills, lost wages).

These cases often hinge on proving that the owner or property manager either created the hazard or knew about it and failed to act within a reasonable timeframe.

At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we build strong personal injury cases by proving every element needed to seek maximum compensation.

The Role of Comparative Negligence in Massachusetts

Massachusetts follows a modified comparative negligence rule under M.G.L. c. 231, § 85. The rule means that even if you were partially at fault for your accident, you could still recover damages if you were less than 51% responsible. If you were partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced according to your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are found to be 20% at fault and your damages amount to $50,000, you would be eligible to recover $40,000. 

This rule emphasizes the importance of consulting a personal injury attorney, who can help demonstrate that most of the fault lies with the property owner or manager.

What to Do After a Massachusetts Slip and Fall Injury on Commercial Property

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident, taking the proper steps immediately after your injury can significantly affect your ability to pursue a successful claim. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first. Get medical treatment right away and keep all records.
2. Report the Incident: Notify the property owner or manager and ensure they document the incident.
3. Document Everything: Take photographs of the scene, including the hazard that caused your fall, and gather witness contact information.
4. Avoid Making Statements: Be cautious about discussing fault at the scene or on social media.
5. Contact a Massachusetts Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced attorney can help you evaluate your case and protect your rights.

Common Injuries from Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can result in a range of injuries, including:

• Fractures (especially hips, wrists, and ankles)
• Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Torn ligaments or muscles
• Chronic pain and mobility limitations

These injuries can require long-term treatment, surgery, or rehabilitation—and, in some cases, may lead to permanent disability.

Losses Available for Recovery in a Slip and Fall Injury Claim

If you’ve been hurt in a Massachusetts slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Every case is unique, so it’s critical to have your case evaluated by a skilled personal injury attorney who understands Massachusetts law.

Why Choose Bottaro Injury Lawyers?

At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we have years of experience helping injured victims across Massachusetts and Rhode Island pursue justice after serious accidents. Our legal team:

• Understands Massachusetts premises liability laws
• Offers personalized, compassionate legal support
• Is available 24/7 for consultations
• Has a proven record of settlements and courtroom success

We take the burden off you so you can focus on your recovery. Whether the incident happened at a shopping center, office building, grocery store, or parking lot, we’re here to help you understand your rights and options.

Get a Free Consultation Today

If you’ve suffered injuries due to a slip and fall on commercial property in Massachusetts, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. Contact Bottaro Injury Lawyers today for a free and confidential consultation.

We’ll assess your case, explain your options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Call or text us at (401) 777-7777 or contact us here to schedule your consultation.