Massachusetts Premises Liability,
Slip and Fall, and Dog Bite Attorneys
Serving clients throughout Massachusetts, including Boston, Worcester, and surrounding communities
When Property Owners
Fail to Keep You Safe
No Fee Unless We Win Your Case
Property owners have a legal duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions for visitors. When they fail to do so, and someone is injured as a result, they may be held liable for the harm caused.
At the Law Offices of Sullivan & Hartley, P.C., we represent individuals across Massachusetts who have been injured due to unsafe property conditions or animal attacks. We investigate what happened, identify who is responsible, and pursue full compensation for your injuries and losses.
Types of Premises
Liability Cases
Slip and Fall Accidents
Falls caused by wet floors, ice, uneven surfaces, or unaddressed hazards can lead to serious and sometimes long-term injuries.
Unsafe Stairways and Walkways
Broken steps, missing handrails, and poorly maintained walkways create dangerous conditions for visitors.
Inadequate Lighting & Property Maintenance
Poor lighting and lack of routine maintenance can increase the risk of preventable accidents.
Snow and Ice Accidents
Massachusetts property owners must take reasonable steps to address snow and ice hazards within a reasonable timeframe.
Dog Bites and Animal Attacks
Property owners may be held responsible for injuries caused by dogs or other animals, even in situations involving friends, neighbors, or family members.
Do You Have
a Premises Liability
Claim in Massachusetts?
Not every accident on someone else’s property results in a valid legal claim. To pursue a claim, several legal elements must be established. Each case depends on the specific facts, which is why a detailed evaluation is important.
A Property Owner Had a Duty to Keep the Area Safe
A Dangerous Condition Existed
The Hazard Was Not Properly Addressed
The Hazard Caused Your Injury
You Suffered Measurable Damages
How We Build
Your Premises Liability Case
A strong case depends on quickly identifying hazardous conditions and preserving evidence before it is altered or removed.
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Documenting the Scene
Establishing Property Owner Negligence
Witness Statements and Supporting Evidence
We collect photographs, incident reports, maintenance records, and any available surveillance footage.
We evaluate whether the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to correct it.
We gather witness accounts and, when necessary, consult experts to help establish how the injury occurred.
Where Premises
Liability Accidents Occur
Each location carriers specific safety responsibilities for property owners.
Grocery Stores and Retail Shops
Apartment Buildings and Rental Properties
Restaurants
and Bars
Parking Lots and Garages
Office Buildings
Private Homes
Compensation Available
You may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical Expenses (current and future)
Lost wages & reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Rehabilitation and ongoing care
Scarring or permanent injury
Common Injuries
in Premises Liability Cases
Some injuries may worsen over time, making early medical evaluation important. Injuries caused by unsafe property conditions can range from moderate to severe and may include:
Fractures and broken bones
Head injuries and concussions
Back and neck injuries
Soft tissue damage
Lacerations and scarring
Infections from animal bites
Long-term mobility issues
Why Work With Law Offices of Sullivan & Hartley, P.C.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation
We look beyond the immediate injury to understand the full impact on your health, work, and future.
Multidisciplinary Experience
Our ability to handle personal injury, workers’ compensation, and disability-related matters allows us to identify additional paths to recovery.
Client-Focused Approach
We prioritize clear communication, practical guidance, and consistent support throughout your case.
Premises Liability Frequently Asked Questions
Property owners are required to maintain reasonably safe conditions for visitors. Liability depends on whether the owner acted reasonably in identifying and correcting dangerous conditions.
Dog bite claims may allow recovery even if the animal had no prior history of aggression, depending on the circumstances.
Massachusetts comparative negligence laws may also apply, which can affect compensation if fault is shared.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, prompt evaluation helps protect your health and documents your claim.
Report the Incident: Notify the property owner, manager, or business and ensure an incident report is created if possible.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazard, your injuries, and the surrounding area before conditions change.
Avoid Giving Statements to Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim. It is important to understand your rights before speaking with them.
Contact an Attorney Early: Early legal guidance helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
Many dog bite cases involve someone the victim knows, which can make the situation emotionally difficult.
In most cases, claims are handled through the dog owner’s homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policy, not against the individual personally. We handle these matters carefully while pursuing full compensation for your injuries.
Compensation is typically pursued through the property owner’s insurance policy.
Have you been injured due to unsafe property conditions?