Chicago Slip-And-Fall Accident Attorneys
Last updated on March 4, 2025
If you’ve been injured from falling on someone else’s property, the owner may be liable for your injuries. Our attorneys at Eames Law Group are compassionate advocates for injury survivors. They are experienced in securing top verdicts, awards and settlements on behalf of injured workers and accident victims. Contact our experienced slip-and-fall attorneys to determine if you have a winnable case.
What Is Premises Liability?
A claim in premises liability can take on many different forms. The most common claim is for slip-and-fall injuries. If a property owner either knew or should have known of a defective condition on their premises, such as a spilled substance on the floor, but failed to remedy the situation, then said defect could create liability for the injury sustained.
Premises liability cases are extremely fact-specific, so confirming, reporting and preserving evidence is crucial in order to be able to present a compensable claim. Of course, it is common for the alleged defective condition to be cured very quickly after the property owner receives notice of the injury. For this reason, if you have been injured in an accident, and you believe you may have a cause of action for premises liability, you should immediately contact experienced legal counsel at the Eames Law Group to help you determine all possible liable parties, insurance companies and seek the appropriate damages for the injuries you sustained.
Common Types Of Premises Liability Claims
Premises liability claims arise when an injury is caused by an unsafe or defective condition on someone’s property. These claims can vary widely based on the nature of the hazard. Below are some common types of premises liability claims, along with examples of potentially defective premises conditions that may give rise to liability:
- Swimming pool accidents: Can occur due to inadequate supervision, lack of safety barriers or faulty pool equipment, leading to injuries or even drowning.
- Fallen trees or branches: Property owners may be liable if they fail to maintain or remove hazardous trees or branches, resulting in damage to property or injury to individuals.
- Animal attacks: If a property owner fails to restrain a dangerous animal or provide adequate warnings, they may be liable for injuries caused by an animal attack.
- Broken furniture: Defective or poorly maintained furniture can cause injuries to guests or customers if it collapses or malfunctions unexpectedly.
- Fires: Faulty wiring, lack of fire safety measures or failure to adhere to fire codes can lead to fires, which may result in serious injuries or property damage.
Each of these conditions requires careful consideration of the circumstances and the property owner’s duty to maintain a safe environment.
What Causes Most Slip-And-Fall Accidents?
Slip-and-fall accidents frequently occur due to various unsafe conditions. Here are some common causes:
- Wet or slippery floors: Surfaces may become slippery from spills, leaks or mopping, increasing the risk of falls if not promptly cleaned.
- Uneven surfaces: Tripping can occur on cracked sidewalks, holes or uneven floors, which may catch individuals off guard.
- Inadequate lighting: Poor lighting can obscure hazards or changes in floor levels, making it easier for people to trip or fall.
- Obstructed walkways: Items or debris left in walking paths can lead to tripping accidents.
- Adverse weather: Snow, ice or rain can create hazardous outdoor conditions, necessitating diligent upkeep to prevent slips.
These factors underscore the need for vigilant maintenance to reduce the risk of slip-and-fall incidents.
How Liability Is Determined In Slip-And-Fall Accidents
Determining liability in slip-and-fall accidents involves evaluating several key factors to determine whether the person or party who owns or occupies the property was negligent. Here are the primary considerations:
- Duty of care: Property owners have a legal obligation to ensure their premises are reasonably safe for visitors.
- Breach of duty: To prove liability, you must show that the property owner failed to uphold their duty of care.
- Knowledge of the hazard: Liability often hinges on whether the property owner knew, or should have known, about the dangerous condition. If the hazard was present but they did not address it, the owner might be negligent.
- Causation: You must show that the owner’s breach of duty directly caused the accident and resulting injuries.
By considering these factors, we assess liability in slip-and-fall cases to pursue fair and just outcomes.
Need Help With Your Case?
Before you talk to anyone, you should call our office and schedule a free consultation with our experienced lawyers to determine your rights and to ensure that you set up a case to receive the maximum compensation that you may be entitled to under the law. Please send us an email or call 312-319-8350 to schedule your completely free consultation.
