Slip and fall accidents are a common type of incident that can occur while in public places or at work. These events can present many challenges and complications for victims who have been affected by the negligence of property owners.
A slip and fall accident lawyer in Chicago can walk you through your options and help you file a claim to recover what you’ve lost.
Therman Law puts our clients first and ensures that they don’t have to handle their case alone. We provide compassionate, trustworthy, and responsive service so you can be sure to get the help you need.
A Chicago personal injury lawyer will advocate for you and make sure that property owners are held accountable for their actions when you have been wrongfully injured. They will fiercely fight for you.
Common Reasons for Slip and Fall Accidents in Chicago
Slip and fall accidents are the result of negligent actions by property owners. They’re responsible for making sure that surfaces remain in good condition so that visitors can have a safe experience when they’re on the property. Premises liability issues, such as slip and falls, unfortunately occur all too frequently and are among the three types of common personal injury cases in Chicago.
Most often, slip and fall accidents are caused by slippery surfaces, uneven or torn carpeting, and poor lighting. Even poor security measures can increase the chance of these accidents occurring.
When owners do not fix these issues or maintain them regularly, they can be liable for causing preventable accidents that endanger patrons.
Individuals can suffer serious injuries in a slip and fall accident. Broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and hip injuries are commonly associated with this type of accident and can have profound effects on the rest of your life.
Some slips and falls may even result in fatalities. Medical advice should be followed closely to improve your prognosis and recovery.
What You Can Do After a Slip and Fall Accident to Protect the Outcome of Your Case
After a slip and fall accident, you will need to seek medical attention and file a claim. However, it is important to use the intervening time to collect evidence and information that will help you resolve your case in a timely manner and avoid challenges with the insurance company. These steps are also important for securing maximum compensation.
When collecting evidence, you will need to be sure to keep all medical records and bills documenting treatment and expenses. You should also get witness statements and pictures of your injuries and the scene of the accident to further support your claim. You will also need to exchange insurance information with the property owner so you know which insurance company to file your claim with.
Before submitting your accident claim, consult a Chicago slip and fall accident attorney who can help you make sure everything is in order and that you have a strong claim.
They will help you handle the logistics, fulfill all legal requirements, and advocate for you as they negotiate your settlement. Insurance companies often respond better when you have an experienced lawyer on your side.
A Chicago Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer Helps You Understand and Navigate Liability Matters in These Cases
Property owners owe patrons and visitors to their property a duty of care. If they have knowledge of an existing hazard or have reason to believe a potential hazard may exist, then they breach their duty, which can result in an accident. If they are deemed liable, then Chicago property owners must pay for the victim’s damages.
It’s important to be aware that under premise liability laws, there are different categories of guests and they are each owed a different level of care. For example, invitees are patrons of an establishment for business and are owed the most care. Licensees have special permissions to access the property and are owed a reduced level of care. And in most situations, trespassers aren’t owed any duty of care.
Furthermore, if victims contribute to an accident in some way, they can be held partially at fault for the event. However, as long as they’re 50% or less at fault, they may still recover compensation for injuries and losses, per 735 ILCS 5/2-1116. In these situations, compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault the victim was responsible for causing. A lawyer can provide clarity on available options.
Compensation Provides Financial Assistance for Losses Caused by Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall injuries can be very costly. From medical expenses to a reduction in income, many victims have a hard time managing the realities of an unexpected injury like this.
The compensation from a personal injury claim can provide relief to injured individuals so they can get the support they need without worrying about how to cover costs. Losses that can potentially be recovered include:
- Medical expenses
- Equipment, accommodations, rehabilitations, and assistive resources
- Loss of income
- Damage to personal belongings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Diminished quality of life
- Loss of companionship or consortium
If you’re unsure what expenses you can claim in an injury case, consult a lawyer right away. They will make sure that no loss is left out and that they’re all calculated properly, so you know how much you may be able to recover through compensation. With a lawyer’s negotiation skills, you can be confident that you will receive the maximum amount of compensation for your losses in your case.
Therman Law is Ready to Fight for You After a Slip and Fall Accident in Chicago
Therman Law has extensive experience fighting for clients like you when you have been the victim of negligence. We are equipped to handle numerous situations and provide exceptional service, so you know you are in good hands.
A slip and fall accident attorney in Chicago will keep your best interests and well-being in mind from start to finish. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
