Chicago Icy Sidewalk Injury Lawyer

One of the detriments of living in a northern city such as Chicago is the brutal winters. Cold and snowy weather often leads to the accumulation of ice on sidewalks and other surfaces. Despite taking precautions and wearing proper footwear, slips and falls still happen on icy sidewalks.

We will discuss the liabilities of icy sidewalks, what to do if you experience a fall, and how to seek legal restitution with a Chicago icy sidewalk injury lawyer.

Dangers of Slippery Sidewalks

The severity of a slip-and-fall accident on the ice usually depends on the age and physical condition of the person. Minimally, a person in Chicago might end up missing a day of work after an icy sidewalk accident – for some people, they might be out for weeks, or even permanently if they suffer a traumatic brain injury or paralysis. Injuries that happen because of falls on icy sidewalks include:

• Abrasions and lacerations
• Bone fractures
• Bruises
• Contusions
• Sprains and strains

Though most victims physically recover from their injuries, a severe fall can result in psychological problems. Hundreds of fatalities also occur from these dangerous falls.

Who is Liable for a Fall on an Icy Sidewalk?

Injuries from these icy sidewalk falls often result in temporary or permanent liabilities. The potential for loss of wages, injuries, and even fatalities set the stage for aggressive regulation requiring businesses and residents to maintain their sidewalks reasonably. If a person slips on the ice in front of a Chicago store, the owner is liable for the costs associated with the fall. Employers should train workers to keep the sidewalks safe for customers and pedestrians.

Fall victims must file a civil injury lawsuit within the Illinois compiled statute of limitation of two years. Exceptions apply when there is criminal intent or reckless behavior surrounding the fall. If the defendant is a local government agency, that will also extend the statute of limitations. Working closely with legal counsel for complicated cases requiring extended deadlines is advisable to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Steps to Take if Injured from a Fall on an Icy Sidewalk

Falling on the ice can come as quite a shock. Some people may even suffer slight embarrassment and instinctively get up as quickly as possible, but falls can result in various injuries that are not always immediately apparent. If you fall, especially in icy conditions, follow these steps:

• If you feel okay to rise, do so very slowly. In inclement or freezing weather, you should also avoid hypothermia and frostbite.
• Seek medical attention promptly. If it’s an emergency where you suffer a sprain, break, or hit your head, call 911 immediately, report the incident to the authorities, and request paramedics or an ambulance. If your fall didn’t require emergency services, go to a physician or Urgent Care Center to get a thorough checkup surrounding the fall.
• Notify the property owner of the accident and provide them with the date and time and other details of the incident.
• Document the accident scene, including photographing the conditions of the sidewalk and subsequent injuries, such as noticeable bruising. If criminal activity occurred, you may also want to get statements from witnesses.
• Contact a personal injury lawyer to see what kind of restitution you may receive. In addition to medical costs, you could receive a settlement for lost income and pain and suffering.

It is important to think about the legal ramifications immediately after a fall so a lawyer has ample time to prepare.

Get Help From a Chicago Icy Sidewalk Injury Attorney

For over 90 years, the legal team at McCready Law has helped clients get the settlement they deserve for injury cases. We communicate closely with our clients and promptly answer phone calls and questions. Our success record proves that our clients receive the settlements they deserve to get their lives back to normal.

If you seek legal help regarding an icy sidewalk accident in Chicago, don’t hesitate to contact us here for a no-obligation consultation.