Is Your Slip & Fall Your Fault?

Slip-n-Fall Attorney – Liability for Victims in RI and MA

If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, it is easy to point the blame at yourself. You are the one who fell, after all, so aren’t you really the one who is responsible?

In many cases, the answer to this question is a resounding “no.” There are numerous factors that can lead to slip-and-fall accidents that are completely beyond the victim’s control. From wet floors in supermarkets to defective ladders on construction sites, there are dangerous – and often hidden – conditions that can lead to sudden, unexpected, and unavoidable falls.

Never Assume that an Accident is Your Fault

As Rhode Island and Massachusetts slip and fall attorneys, we tell people never to assume that they are at fault in an accident. When it comes to seeking compensation for injuries and damage to personal property, “fault” is a complex legal term that requires a thorough understanding of the laws involved in personal injury litigation. While it is true that you were the one who fell, this does not mean that you were at fault in causing your injuries.

Some common scenarios where someone other than the victim can be at fault for a slip-and-fall accident include:

  • Slipping on black ice and untreated walking surfaces during Massachusetts and Rhode Island winters
  • Falling under inadequate supervision in a nursing home
  • Falling on the job due to lack of training or inadequate safety precautions

Again, these are just a few examples. There are countless other situations where someone other than the victim will be considered the at-fault party for a slip and fall injury. If you forego hiring a lawyer because you assume that you are to blame for your injuries, you may end up paying for someone else’s negligence for years down the road.

Recovering Compensation Even If You Were Partially to Blame

Another important reason not to assume that you are to blame is that, even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to partial financial compensation. This is true in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island, though the laws are slightly different in each state.

Investigating Slip-and-Fall Injuries

To find out if you may be entitled to compensation for a fall-related incident, it is important to seek medical attention right away. A doctor will be able to diagnose and help identify the cause of your injuries. In addition to seeing a doctor, you should:

  • Report the incident to your employer (if the incident occurred at work) or to the property manager
  • Take photos of your injuries in the area where the accident occurred
  • Get contact information from any witnesses

When you contact the Bottaro Law Firm, LLC, a member of our experienced legal team will be able to walk you through the process and help ensure that you preserve your chances of obtaining maximum compensation.

Contact the Bottaro Law Firm, LLC Today

Members of our team are available 24/7 to take your call. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a slip-and-fall accident in Massachusetts or Rhode Island, contact us today for a free consultation.