Accidents happen and in New England, the risk increases for some types of injuries during the winter months. It’s important to remember, though, that if you are injured due to someone else’s negligence or carelessness, you may be entitled to legal compensation.

Types of Wintertime Personal Injury Risks

There are a few types of legal personal injury cases, including automobile accidents, injury claims (for things like slips and falls), medical malpractice and workers compensation. We often see a spike in auto accidents in the winter when snow, ice and poor visibility affect driving conditions, but there are other wintertime personal injury risks as well.

Homeowners and business owners are responsible for keeping their properties in safe condition. If snow or ice builds up on steps or walkways and you are injured in a fall as a result, you may be able to seek compensation for medical bills, and pain and suffering. The same is true if you are injured by a buildup of snow and ice falling on you from a roof or awning.

What to Do if You’re Injured

If you are hurt due to someone else’s negligence, you should speak with a personal injury attorney as soon as you can. Massachusetts and other states have statutes of limitations that impact how long after an injury you can file a claim.

While personal injury law is complex, in a nutshell, you need to prove that another person had a duty to avoid harming you, you were injured, and you sustained injuries and incurred medical bills and lost wages.

Because the process can be complicated, your best bet is to retain an attorney who is experienced in personal injury law. We can help you determine if you have a case and guide you through the entire process, including preparing the case and filing it in court. About 95 percent of all personal injury cases are settled without a trial.

We hope you enjoy a safe and healthy winter, but should trouble arise, don’t hesitate to reach out.