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Snow, ice, rain, and sleet are all part of Chicago’s weather, and the dirt and debris that come with precipitation can leave floors slippery. Property owners are responsible for removing the liquid or displaying warning signs to prevent people from experiencing wet floor accidents in Chicago.
Wet floor accidents may fall under premises liability laws that hold property owners accountable for maintaining a reasonably safe environment for visitors. If property owners fail to remove spills or puddles promptly, they may be liable for damages resulting from a slip-and-fall accident. A seasoned slip and fall lawyer could review your case and discuss your legal options for compensation.
Property owners have a legal responsibility to keep their properties hazard-free. Commercial properties such as restaurants or stores must clear spills or accumulated liquids from their floors. Property managers of residential buildings, such as apartments and condominiums, should ensure that entries, hallways, and stairwells remain dry, or post warning signs to alert occupants to potential hazards. Private property owners are equally responsible for keeping their residences free of risks. If a Chicago property owner’s failure to address wet floors causes an accident, they could be liable for resulting injuries.
To receive compensation in a slip-and-fall case, injured parties must prove the property owner or manager was negligent, resulting in the accident that caused harm. For example, poor lighting can make it difficult to see liquids on tiles or flooring, and parking lots lacking adequate lighting can hide grease-filled potholes or other obstructions that can cause a slip and fall. A victim of a wet floor accident in Chicago should do the following:
An experienced attorney could help victims gather the necessary evidence to pursue the compensation they deserve.
Parties injured in a Chicago wet floor accident may receive compensation for medical expenses and lost wages due to their injury.
Medical expenses may include hospital stays, doctor visits, and physical therapy services, as well as diagnostic tests, prescriptions, and other medical costs related to the injury. Compensation can encompass current and future medical expenses if the injury requires ongoing medical treatment.
If victims miss work because of their injuries, they could recover lost wages. To support compensation requests, they should retain all paycheck stubs and salary information.
Injuries requiring time off from work can make healing difficult. Worrying about unpaid bills and lifestyle disruptions add to the stress of physical injuries. Because of this, victims could receive compensation for mental and emotional distress.
Injured parties have two years to file a claim to receive compensation for their losses. However, the longer they wait, the more challenging proving negligence can be, as witnesses may relocate or property ownership may change. An experienced lawyer could help protect your rights if contacted promptly.
While wet floors may be part of the Chicago landscape, wet floor accidents in Chicago should not. If you have suffered injuries because someone else failed to maintain a safe environment, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A skilled attorney from McCready Law could explain your legal options, discuss possible legal strategies, and help you pursue compensation. Contact us today.