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Slip and fall accidents are among Chicago’s most common — and preventable — causes of injury. Property owners have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe. When they don’t, you could be left dealing with painful injuries, expensive medical bills, and time away from work.
At Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., we know how devastating a fall can be. If you were injured because of a dangerous condition on someone else’s property, our premises liability attorneys can help you pursue full compensation.
Call (312) 236-2900 or fill out our online form to schedule your free, no-risk consultation.
Negligence Often Leads to Preventable Falls
Many slip and fall accidents in Illinois are caused by property hazards that should have been addressed or warned about. Our team has seen countless cases where quick action from a property owner could have prevented serious harm.
Common Slip and Fall Hazards:
- Wet, slick, or greasy floors
- Uneven pavement or broken tiles
- Spilled liquids, food, or debris
- Loose floorboards or torn carpeting
- Missing or broken handrails
- Poor lighting in stairwells or walkways
- Uncovered or improperly covered holes
Falls Can Happen Anywhere — Inside or Out
From icy sidewalks to grocery store aisles, slip and fall accidents can happen in virtually any setting. No matter where your fall occurred, we’ll investigate who was responsible.
Typical Locations Include:
- Grocery and retail stores
- Restaurants, gas stations, and convenience stores
- Apartment buildings and rental properties
- Office buildings and medical facilities
- Sidewalks, parking lots, and garages
- Public parks and recreational spaces
- Theaters, gyms, and stadiums
Even Minor Falls Can Lead to Long-Term Complications
Not all slip and fall accidents result in a few bumps and bruises. Some lead to life-altering injuries that require surgery, long-term care, and months of recovery. Some of the most common injuries after a fall include:
Broken Bones
Broken bones are among the most frequent injuries in slip and fall accidents. Wrists, hips, arms, and ankles are especially vulnerable, depending on how you land. A simple fracture may require a cast and several weeks of healing, but more complex breaks might need surgery to insert pins, plates, or screws. Recovery could also involve months of physical therapy.
Soft Tissue Injuries
These injuries may include sprains (ligament injuries), strains (muscle/tendon injuries), and complete tears. While minor sprains may heal with rest and ice, severe soft tissue injuries can require surgery, physical therapy, and months away from work or regular activities. These injuries can also cause chronic pain, weakness, or instability in the affected joint.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
A sudden blow to the head during a fall can lead to a concussion or more serious brain injury, even if there’s no visible wound. Symptoms can range from headaches, dizziness, and nausea to memory problems, mood changes, and cognitive decline. In extreme cases, a fall-related TBI can lead to coma, long-term care needs or wrongful death.
Spinal & Back Injuries
The force of a fall can damage vertebrae, discs, or soft tissues in the back. Common injuries include herniated discs, compression fractures, spinal stenosis, and chronic back strain. These injuries may cause persistent pain, numbness, or tingling in the limbs, and in some cases, lead to reduced mobility or permanent physical limitations.
Spinal Cord Damage
Falls are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries, especially in older adults. If the spinal cord is bruised, severed, or compressed, it can result in partial or complete paralysis; either paraplegia or quadriplegia, depending on the injury location. Spinal cord injuries almost always require a lifetime of medical care and significant changes to the injured person’s quality of life.
Who’s Liable for a Slip and Fall Accident?
Illinois law requires property owners to maintain reasonably safe conditions for visitors. They may be liable for your injuries if they knew — or should have known — about a dangerous condition and failed to fix or warn you.
When Property Owners May Be Liable:
- They failed to correct a known hazard
- They ignored a reported maintenance issue
- They created the hazard themselves
- They failed to inspect their property regularly
Other Liable Parties Might Include:
- Business tenants
- Contractors or maintenance companies
- Property management firms
There are exceptions, such as “open and obvious” hazards or “latent defects” hidden from the property owner. An experienced attorney can identify the responsible party and build a strong case for compensation.
From Investigation to Litigation — Staver is With You at Every Step
When you hire Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, we get to work immediately. From the first call to the final resolution, our team is focused on building a strong case for the compensation you deserve:
Step 1: Investigate the Scene
Our team immediately begins gathering evidence to understand how your fall happened and who is responsible. We’ll document the scene, obtain video footage if available, speak with witnesses, and review any relevant property records.
Step 2: Identify the Liable Party
Once we understand what caused your fall, we determine who had the legal responsibility to prevent it. That could be a property owner, a commercial tenant, a maintenance company, or even a contractor. We work to identify all sources of potential liability and insurance coverage.
Step 3: File Your Claim
After we’ve built a strong foundation, we’ll send a formal demand letter to the at-fault party and their insurance provider. From there, we begin negotiating toward a settlement that reflects the fall’s impact on your life.
Step 4: Prepare for Litigation (If Needed)
If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we won’t hesitate to file a lawsuit on your behalf. We’ll guide you through the discovery process and continue pushing for a resolution. If necessary, we’ll take your case to trial and present a compelling argument, because we’re committed to getting you the best possible outcome.
Compensation After a Slip and Fall
A slip and fall claim can cover more than just your immediate medical bills. We fight for the full value of your financial and personal losses.
You May Be Eligible to Recover:
Real Results for Real Clients
- $215,000 for a woman injured when a stairway collapsed
- $485,000 for a senior who tripped over a plywood board covering a hole
These results are just a sample of what we’ve accomplished for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slip and Fall Accidents in Chicago
How long do I have to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Illinois?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, there are exceptions, so talk to an attorney as soon as possible.
What if I was partially at fault for my fall?
Illinois follows modified comparative negligence. If you were less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, though your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation.
How much is my slip and fall case worth?
Your case value depends on your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and other factors. A lawyer can evaluate your claim and help you pursue the maximum compensation.
Can I sue a store or business for a slip and fall?
Yes, if the business failed to maintain safe conditions or ignored a hazard, they may be liable for your injuries. We regularly handle claims against grocery stores, restaurants, and other commercial properties.
Call a Staver Slip and Fall Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a slip and fall in Chicago, don’t wait to explore your options. Evidence disappears fast — and so does your chance to recover what you’re owed.
Call Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. at (312) 236-2900 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. You’ll get the answers you need and the representation you deserve.
