Although autumn leaves provide a beautiful fall backdrop, they can be dangerous when they’re wet. Just like icy or snowy conditions, wet leaves can cause slip and fall accidents. Here is what you need to know about getting compensated for your slip and fall injury due to wet leaves.

Understanding Slip & Fall Accidents From Wet Leaves

What Type of Damages Can You Pursue?

The same types of compensation for personal injury claims apply to slip and fall injuries on wet leaves. Examples of damages you may be awarded include pain and suffering, lost wages, medical bills, and diminished quality of life. But to pursue damages, you need to provide proof that the accident was due to the property owner's negligence.

What Proof Is Needed to File a Claim?

You can provide documentation showing that the property owner was responsible for your injuries. Write everything that took place before, during, and after the accident in a journal. If you can, take photos of the scene and gather the contact information of any witnesses. 

Are Property Owners Liable for Slip & Fall Accidents?

The premises liability law holds property owners responsible for cleaning up leaf pileups. They are expected to take steps and ensure that no one gets injured because of a hazard on their property. 

A homeowner is guilty of negligence if someone slips and gets injured because of wet leaves that have accumulated on their property. However, it’s not always simple to prove that the owner did not take reasonable care in making their premises safe. In such instances, an attorney's expertise is often needed to help with the case.

How Can a Lawyer Help With a Slip & Fall Claim? 

In Massachusetts, you have until three years after the incident to file a slip and fall lawsuit. As such, it’s best to hire an attorney and start the claims process as soon as possible. Also, several legal rules and laws can affect your case, possibly leading a lower financial settlement than what you are hoping for. Under the modified comparative negligence rule in Massachusetts, damages will be reduced in accordance with the percentage of your fault. You won’t get any settlement if you are more than 50 percent responsible for your accident. A lawyer can advise you what steps to take so you can receive the best outcome for your case.   

Slip and fall injuries are sometimes severe or even life-threatening. If you are hurt because of wet leaves on another person’s property, the lawyers at Bellotti Law Group, P.C. in Boston, MA, will expertly fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. They handle personal injury and premises liability cases. Call (617) 778-1000 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to browse their services.