Slip and Falls in Winter: Who’s Liable for Snow and Ice Accidents?

The Law Offices of Morton J. Shuman, P.C. • February 3, 2025

Massachusetts winters may be beautiful, but they also bring along a hidden danger of potential slip and fall injuries. Icy, slippery sidewalks and parking lots are often to blame, particularly as snow and ice build up, creating risky conditions for anyone walking outside. If you’ve suffered a fall during the winter months, you might be wondering: Who is responsible for the injuries I sustained in a slip and fall accident?

Liability for Snow and Ice Accidents in Massachusetts

Massachusetts law requires property owners to maintain safe premises, which includes addressing snow and ice accumulation. However, winter slip and fall cases can be tricky, as they often hinge on whether the property owner took reasonable steps to prevent accidents.


In general, property owners must clear walkways of snow and ice in a timely manner. However, there are nuances to consider:


  • Residential Property Owners: Homeowners are expected to shovel their driveways, sidewalks, and steps, but they are typically only liable if a guest or visitor is injured due to their failure to clear hazardous conditions.
  • Commercial Property Owners: Businesses have a higher duty of care, as they are open to the public. They must maintain their premises to ensure that customers and clients do not face hazardous conditions. If you slip and fall on a business property, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim if they neglected snow removal or failed to treat ice properly.
  • Municipalities and Government Property: In some cases, government entities can also be held liable for maintaining public roads, walkways, and parking lots. However, claims against municipalities can be more complex due to government immunity laws.

When Does Liability Apply?

Under Massachusetts law, property owners are generally only liable for slip and fall accidents if they have notice of the dangerous conditions. This means that in cases involving snow and ice, the property owner must either have known about the hazardous conditions or should have known if they had taken reasonable steps to inspect their property.


For example, if ice has been building up for several days and the property owner has not yet addressed it, they could be considered negligent. On the other hand, if a person slips immediately after a snowfall and there hasn’t been enough time for the property owner to clear the ice or snow, it may be more difficult to hold them accountable.

Why Timing Matters After a Slip and Fall Accident in Massachusetts

After a slip and fall accident in Massachusetts, timing is critical. You need to report the accident as soon as possible to document the conditions and make your case. It’s also important to seek medical treatment immediately to avoid complications with your claim.


For more details, read our blog on Why Timing Matters After a Slip and Fall Accident in Massachusetts.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Slip-and-Fall?

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident due to ice or snow, a lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of liability. Our experienced team at The Law Offices of Morton J. Shuman, P.C. specializes in personal injury cases, including slip and fall accidents, and can help determine whether you have a viable claim.


If you’re unsure whether you need legal representation, check out our blog on Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Slip-and-Fall?, where we outline how a lawyer can assist in securing compensation for your injuries.

Understanding Liability in Snow and Ice Slip and Fall Cases

If you’ve suffered an injury in a slip and fall accident due to snow or ice, understanding liability in Massachusetts is crucial for your personal injury claim. Property owners are responsible for maintaining safe conditions, but the specifics of your case will determine if they were negligent. If you’ve been injured, contact our office today to discuss your case and determine the best course of action.

Lawyer in suit writing, with scales of justice and gavel on desk.

Personal Injury Attorney in Framingham You Can Trust

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Denied Workers’ Compensation Claims: What to Do Next

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Can You File a Claim if a Dog Injures You Without Biting?

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Construction Site Accidents: Protecting Workers in Massachusetts

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