Slips, falls, and Premise liability
Slips and falls are familiar sources of injury that can have harmful after-effects on one’s life. Now, you may get lucky; the worst to come out of it is a spilled lunch and some mild embarrassment. However, 1 in 5 workplace slip and fall accidents can leave damage to the body; a sprained ankle, a broken rib or leg, or even paralysis. This can severely impact your life and, if severe enough, may impede your ability to provide for yourself. However, if you’ve experienced a slip-and-fall accident on someone else’s property due to negligence, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
Premises liability is a legal concept that holds property owners or occupants responsible for specific injuries that occur on their premises. The underlying principle is that property owners must ensure a reasonably safe environment for visitors or guests. This duty extends to maintaining the property and warning visitors about potential hazards they may not be able to detect themselves.
Holding the property owner accountable can help you receive compensation for your injuries and related expenses. However, their insurance companies will not make it easy. They will look to minimize the property owner’s responsibility in the accident and maximize your’s. Different states have different fault systems. Illinois operates with a Modified Comparative Fault (51% Rule), which means you cannot collect any damages if you are 51% or more at fault for the accident. If you are going to seek damages, you need to be prepared.
Document everything you can about the accident, including testimony from any witnesses. Take photos of the site providing everything you can, from the condition of the grounds to your physical perspective and all other compositions that will be useful for your case. All of this needs to be gathered as soon as possible. The closer to the moment of the accident, the better, as conditions can quickly be changed, even in just a matter of minutes. It is important to also share the accident with the property owner, but do not provide details. Nor should you post about your accident on social media. At the very least, only do so after consulting your attorney. What you share online may be used against you by the defendant. Most importantly, remember to seek medical attention!
If you are the victim of a harmful slip and fall accident, it is possible to hold the property owner accountable. Our office has experience in dealing with and winning complex accident cases. Contact us today for a free consultation.