Government Property Slip and Fall and the 60-Day Notice Rule in Rhode Island

Public Sidewalks

The most common government property slip and fall involves a public sidewalk that a city or town was responsible for maintaining. Whether the hazard was an uplifted concrete panel, an icy surface that was not treated, or a damaged surface that was reported but not repaired, the claim goes against the municipality and triggers the 60-day notice rule.

Note: In some cases, the city imposes the clearance duty on abutting property owners rather than maintaining the sidewalk itself. If the abutting property owner, not the city, was responsible for the sidewalk condition, the claim may be against a private party rather than the municipality. See our page on the 8-hour sidewalk snow clearance rule for more on this distinction.

Public Parks and Recreation Areas

Falls in Rhode Island state and municipal parks, on park trails, at playgrounds, and at public recreational facilities trigger the 60-day notice rule. Hazardous conditions such as broken pavement, uneven ground, defective equipment, and unsalted walkways in winter all create liability for the responsible government entity.

Government Building Entryways and Parking Lots

Falls at the entrance to a government office building, in a municipal parking lot, or inside a government facility such as a courthouse or public school are subject to the municipal or state notice requirements depending on which entity owns and operates the facility.