A slip and fall accident can happen on icy sidewalks

Massachusetts businesses are responsible for maintaining their property in a way so that it will not be a hazard to those who visit their businesses. Even though this can be a daunting task at times, it is the business’s responsibility to protect its patrons while they are on site. Failure to do so can lead to a slip and fall accident as well as other types of injuries.

As winter approaches, many businesses will find it necessary to place mats at their entrance for customers to remove snow from their shoes. Additionally, mops will likely be needed for snow and ice that gets tracked into the business. These simple steps can help to minimize the likelihood of someone slipping on a wet floor.

Another area of concern during winter months is the sidewalk in front of the business. Snow and ice can quickly accumulate. This is an area that is important to keep shoveled and cleared.

In January 2015, a couple was visiting their local shopping center. While walking along the center’s sidewalk, the husband slipped, fell and suffered injury. This couple has now filed suit against the shopping center’s manager and the property owner. They claim that the owner and management team did not adequately maintain their sidewalks and allowed ice and water to remain on them.

Snow and ice are a fact of life during winter in Massachusetts. While the majority of businesses and property owners are diligent in making sure that their property is maintained so that a slip and fall accident will not occur, these accidents do happen. If one is injured in such an accident, there may be legal recourse.

Source: cookcountyrecord.com, “Shopping center manager, owner accused of negligence in connection with fall“, Louie Torres, Nov. 17, 2016