If you or a loved one has been hurt in a slip and fall accident on someone else’s property, you’ll need a skilled Chicago slip and fall injury lawyer with experience in personal injury and premises liability law to determine if you have a valid slip and fall lawsuit. At The Kryder Law Group, LLC, Accident and Injury Lawyers, we have a proven track record of winning personal injury claims. Our slip and fall attorneys are dedicated to offering top-notch legal representation for clients who’ve suffered serious injuries due to someone else’s negligence.
What Illinois Laws Apply to Slip and Fall Injuries?
In Illinois, a slip and fall case falls under the umbrella of the Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130/1). This means that property owners have a legal responsibility to maintain their property in a safe condition for visitors and guests. If they fail to do so and someone is injured as a result, they can be held liable for any damages incurred by responsible party.
Does the Premises Liability Act Apply to Trespassers?
Nothing here changes the rules about child trespassers. Property owners or occupiers don’t have to keep adult trespassers safe, but they must avoid doing anything that would intentionally or recklessly harm a known trespasser, whether the accident occurred due to the property’s condition or activities going on there.
When Is a Slip and Fall Incident a Valid Personal Injury Claim?
For a slip and fall claim to count as a valid claim under personal injury law, certain factors must be present:
- Negligence: The property owner or manager knew about the hazard but didn’t fix it or give enough warning.
- Duty of Care: The property owner or manager had the responsibility to keep the place safe and prevent injuries to visitors.
- Actual Injury: The victim must have gotten physically hurt, like broken bones, spinal cord injuries (SCIs), traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or sprains.
- Proximate Cause: There needs to be a clear link between the hazard and the victim’s injuries.
Common Places for Slip and Fall Accidents in Chicago
Slip and fall accidents can happen just about anywhere, but some spots are more common than others:
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Spilled liquids and slippery floors
- Restaurants and Cafes: Uncleaned food and drink spills
- Shopping Malls: Wet floors near entrances or on cluttered walkways
- Sidewalks and Walkways: Cracked pavement and winter ice
- Workplaces: Wet or uneven floors in offices, warehouses, and factories
Who May Be Liable for a Slip and Fall Injury?
The owner or occupier of the property where the slip and fall happened can be held responsible for injuries the fall victims get on their premises. But sometimes, other parties might also share the blame, like:
- Property Managers: If they’re in charge of keeping the property safe
- Contractors: If they were hired to do maintenance or repairs that caused the hazard
- Government Agencies: If the injury happened on public property due to neglect or poor maintenance
Who Are the Most Common Victims of Slip and Fall Injuries?
Anyone can become a victim of a slip and fall injury, but some groups are at higher risk:
- Older Adults: As we age, our balance and coordination can decline, making us more susceptible to falling.
- Children: Curiosity and lack of awareness can lead children to dangers like open manholes or unsecured railings.
- Employees in Hazardous Work Environments: Workers in industries like construction or manufacturing may face hazardous conditions that can result in slip and fall injuries.
How Can a Chicago Slip and Fall Attorney Help Me?
If you believe you have a valid slip and fall injury claim, hiring a skilled attorney can greatly benefit your case. A Chicago slip and fall injury lawyer can help your premises liability case by:
- Investigating the Accident: Your lawyer will gather evidence like photos, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
- Calculating Damages: Your lawyer will assess the full extent of your losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering to determine full and fair compensation.
- Negotiating with the Insurance Company: Your lawyer will handle all communication with insurance companies.
- Representing You in Court: If necessary, your lawyer will take your case to court and advocate for a fair settlement.
Compensation for Slip and Fall Injuries
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. This can include:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Pain and Suffering
- Property Damage
Contact a Chicago Slip and Fall Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, don’t wait to seek legal help.
Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Chicago slip and fall accident lawyer who can listen to your case, determine the best course of action for you, and answer your questions.
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t collect personal injury lawyers’ fees unless we win your case.
So, when slip and fall accidents occur causing serious injury, don’t suffer alone – let us be your advocates in getting the justice and compensation you need.
(312) 223-1700