Falling on Ice? What Cape Cod Residents Need to Know About Personal Injury Claims

Winter on the Cape is beautiful, but it brings serious hazards. When temperatures drop and snow piles up, icy walkways and parking lots become a daily reality. Unfortunately, slips and falls are incredibly common during these months, and the injuries sustained can be severe. If you’ve taken a spill on someone else’s property due to untreated ice, you might be wondering about your rights. Speaking with a personal injury attorney Plymouth is often the first step in understanding whether negligence played a role in your accident. At The Law Offices of John C. Manoog III, we help residents navigate these slippery situations.

Understanding Premises Liability in Winter

When you visit a store, an apartment complex, or even a private residence, you have a reasonable expectation of safety. Property owners in Massachusetts have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors.

The “Reasonable Time” Rule

Property owners aren’t expected to catch every snowflake before it lands. However, they must address hazards within a reasonable timeframe.

• Snow Removal: Clearing driveways and walkways after a storm ends.
• Ice Treatment: Salting or sanding surfaces to prevent refreezing.
• Lighting: Ensuring dangerous areas are visible at night.
• Warning Signs: Placing “wet floor” or “icy patch” signs where immediate removal isn’t possible.
• Gutter and Roof Maintenance: Preventing runoff that can freeze on walkways.

Under the Massachusetts Court System, property owners cannot simply ignore natural accumulation if it creates a hazard. If a landlord or business owner leaves ice untreated for days and you get hurt, they may be liable for your injuries.

Why Documentation Matters

If you are injured, your priority is your health, but your second priority should be gathering evidence. Ice melts, and conditions change rapidly. Without prompt documentation, proving that a specific hazard caused your fall becomes significantly more challenging. Acting quickly to preserve evidence is therefore essential for a successful claim.

1. Take Photos: Immediately photograph the ice patch, the surrounding area, and your injuries.
2. Report It: Make sure the property owner or manager knows what happened right away.
3. Witnesses: Get names and numbers of anyone who saw the fall.

Consulting a personal injury attorney Plymouth MA quickly ensures that this evidence is preserved effectively before it disappears with the next thaw.

Severity of Ice-Related Injuries

Falls on ice aren’t just embarrassing; they can be life-altering. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that falls are a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries. Common winter injuries include:

• Concussions and Head Injuries: Even a seemingly minor slip can result in significant head trauma.
• Fractured Hips or Wrists: According to the National Library of Medicine, over 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling, often by falling sideways.
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: These serious injuries can lead to chronic pain and long-term disability.

A skilled personal injury lawyer Plymouth MA can help calculate the true cost of these injuries, including future medical bills and lost wages.

Protecting Your Rights After a Fall with The Law Offices of John C. Manoog III

Navigating insurance claims alone while recovering from an injury is overwhelming. Having a knowledgeable personal injury attorney Plymouth on your side changes the dynamic. At The Law Offices of John C. Manoog III, we investigate the circumstances of your fall, check weather records, and hold negligent property owners accountable.

If you’ve been hurt on the Cape this winter, don’t assume it was just bad luck. Contact us today to discuss your case and see how we can help you get back on your feet.