Slip and fall accidents do not seem extraordinarily dangerous or harmful. However, depending on the unique circumstances of the fall injuries can be as minor as a bruise or cut or as severe as a broken bone or spinal cord injury. There are various causes of slip and falls ranging from floor conditions to a lack of safety measures. If you were injured in a slip and fall accident work with a skilled Kane County slip and fall lawyer for assistance during the legal process.
What is a Slip and Fall Accident?
A slip and fall accident is an incident where a person slips or trips and falls, sustaining an injury. If the victim was on another person’s property at the time of the accident and was injured due to their negligence and failure to maintain a safe environment, the property owner may be liable. The injured party may file a premises liability claim against the property owner.
What is Premises Liability?
Premises liability is a legal theory that can hold property owners liable for monetary damages incurred from accidents or injuries on their property. Property owners have a responsibility to their guests, patrons, and clients to keep their property relatively safe from preventable dangers. If a person is legally on the property they are protected by premises liability.
For example, suppose a grocery store has a welcome mat at the entrance. Many shoppers have complained to the manager about the mat as it is loose and folds up, causing them to trip. About a month after the complaints start a man trips over the unsafe mat and falls, breaking his wrist. Because the grocery store owner has a responsibility to maintain a safe environment, knew about the hazard, and had ample time to resolve the issue, the owner can be held liable for the man’s injuries.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Slip and Falls?
Slip and falls can happen for various reasons depending on the location, weather, and condition of the property. Some common causes of slip and falls include the following dangers.
- Uneven floors
- Food and drink spills
- Leaks
- Icy pavement
- Bulging carpeting
- Loose mats and rugs
- Lack of handrails
- Loose floorboards or tiles
- Debris and clutter on floors
- Insufficient lighting
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
A statute of limitations is a legally enforceable time frame in which a victim of a crime or accident has to pursue legal action. Statutes of limitations will vary depending on the type of accident and the state you are in.
In Illinois, slip and fall accident victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit or claim for their injuries. In some instances where the injury did not make itself apparent immediately, victims may be allowed two years from the discovery of their accident to file.
Navigating legal processes and deadlines can be complex, so acquire help from an experienced attorney to ensure you are following proper procedures and doing everything you can to be awarded a fair settlement.
