If you slip and fall in a store or restaurant, you may be a little embarrassed but stand right back up and dust yourself off. However, this is not always the case. Slip and falls can result in serious injuries like broken bones or nerve damage. If you’re concerned about the statute of limitations for your slip and fall in Illinois, continue reading for more information. Contact an experienced Kane County slip and fall lawyer to discuss the details of your case and begin working toward receiving a settlement.
What is a Slip and Fall Accident?
A slip and fall is a type of accident where a person loses their footing or stumbles, resulting in them falling and injuring themselves. When a slip and fall occurs on someone else’s property it falls under premises liability law and you may be entitled to compensation if the accident resulted from some negligence of the owner.
You may slip and fall for a variety of reasons including wet or slippery floors, loose carpeting, icy sidewalks, missing handrails, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, loose floorboards, and more.
What is a Statute of Limitations?
You may have heard someone in real life or on television say that there is no statute of limitations when it comes to murder. This means that no matter how much time has passed, a person can be charged and convicted for their crime. A statute of limitations is the specific time after an event when legal action can be pursued. You must file a lawsuit or claim within that window. Accidents have statutes of limitations as well as crimes.
How Long Do I Have to File a Slip and Fall Claim?
Every state has its own laws when it comes to various statutes of limitations. In Illinois, the statute is two years. From the date of the accident, a victim has two years to begin their pursuit of compensation. If you fail to file a lawsuit or claim within two years, you lose your right to collect damages.
Though you have two years to file, it is recommended that you begin legal proceedings as soon as possible. The passage of time can impact the validity of evidence and memories. The more time that passes before you file a lawsuit or claim, the more likely that eyewitnesses will forget the details of the accident, making their testimony not as compelling. Additionally, evidence from the scene of the accident can be lost or tainted.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Slip and Fall Case?
You should find a trusted attorney to work with when dealing with the aftermath of a slip and fall. The complexity of the law can be overwhelming, and your lawyer will have the skills and experience to navigate the situation. They can analyze relevant evidence and information and communicate with insurance companies and judges to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
