Slip and Fall Frequently Asked Questions in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for a personal injury lawsuit arising from a slip and fall accident on someone else's property is three years from the date of the accident. This means you have three years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit against the property owner. It is important to note that this time period may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. For example, if you slip and fall on a public way, like a sidewalk, you must notify the public entity (city/town/state) within 30 days of your injury. It is always best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to determine the applicable time frame for your slip and fall incident.

It is generally recommended to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a slip and fall accident in Massachusetts, as it is important to document the injuries and the link between the accident and the injuries.

It is important to note that the longer you wait to seek medical attention, the harder it may be to link your injuries to the slip and fall accident, which may make it more difficult to prove your case in court. Additionally, some injuries may not become apparent immediately after the accident, so it is important to be aware of any symptoms or changes in your health that occur after the accident.

Also, an insurance company may challenge the authenticity of the injuries or the link between the accident and the injuries if you wait too long to seek medical treatment.

So, it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible after a slip and fall accident and continue to seek medical attention for any injuries or symptoms that develop.

The value of a slip and fall case in Massachusetts will depend on a variety of factors, such as the severity of the injuries sustained, the amount of medical expenses incurred, and the amount of lost wages or income.

There is no fixed formula for determining the value of a slip and fall case in Massachusetts. However, some common damages recovered in slip and fall cases include:

• Medical expenses, including costs for hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, and medication.
• Lost wages or income if the victim is unable to work.
• Pain and suffering, which is a subjective measure of the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Permanent injuries, such as scarring or disfigurement.
• Loss of consortium, which is a claim for the loss of companionship, love, and support of a spouse or partner.

An experienced slip and fall attorney can help to determine the value of a case based on the facts of the accident, and the injury sustained.

It is worth noting that settlements or jury awards can vary widely depending on the facts of each case, and there is no way to predict with certainty what a case might be worth. It is best to discuss your unique situation with an attorney experienced in handling slip and fall cases to get a better understanding of what your case might be worth.