What Are Common Causes of a Slip and Fall Accident?

 Posted on April 09, 2024 in Premises liability

Slip and fall accidents are exactly what they sound like – they occur when someone slips over a hazardous or improperly maintained area and falls, often resulting in serious injuries to the neck, head, and back. Suppose you have been injured after a slip and fall accident. In that case, you may be able to pursue a compensation claim to recover the cost of your injuries and additional damages, like pain and suffering. An Illinois premises liability lawyer can help you understand your options.

Causes of a Slip and Fall Accident

Slip and fall accidents can occur virtually anywhere, including apartment complexes, stores, restaurants and bars, sports venues and entertainment arenas, and public roads or sidewalks. There are many reasons a slip and fall accident may occur in any of these areas, though some are more common than others, such as the following:

• Wet or slippery floors, especially in stores or areas where there is no posted signage
• Uneven surfaces such as sidewalks with large cracks, potholes on roads and in parking lots, improperly maintained floors, or rugs and mats that are loose and uneven
• Loose cords and wires left in walking areas
• Walkways full of clutter or large items
• Inadequate lighting that does not properly light up a walkway, room, or outdoor path
• Damaged handrails, banisters, or stairs that buckle or give way as someone leans on them for support

It is important to note that the injuries from this type of accident can be severe, such as broken bones, neck and spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. In major cases, an individual may also have internal bleeding, nerve damage, or a permanent disability after a slip and fall accident.

Who Is At Fault for a Slip and Fall Accident?

In Illinois, slip and fall accidents generally fall under the Illinois Premises Liability Act. According to this act, the property owner of an establishment has a duty to ensure that their space is properly maintained and that any areas of potential slipping hazard are highlighted. Acting negligently or recklessly in a way that causes someone legally on the property to suffer a slip and fall accident may make them liable for any injuries that occur.

Contact a Des Plaines, IL Premises Liability Lawyer

Dealing with the aftermath of a slip and fall accident can be difficult, and the injuries obtained in this type of incident may be extensive. A skilled Park Ridge, IL premises liability attorney can help advocate for your rights as you pursue a claim for compensation. Attorney Patrick Quinn has a strong record of success in fighting for clients to receive maximum compensation for their injuries. Contact Quinn Law Group, LLC at 847-232-7180 for a free consultation.