Losing a loved one is devastating. When their death could have been prevented, the pain is even harder to bear. If someone you care about has died as a result of a slip and fall accident due to another party’s negligence, you need the help of an experienced attorney.
We are Slip and Fall Death Lawyers in Chicago and understand the emotional and financial strain wrongful death claims brought. We are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process!
Why You Need Our Slip and Fall Attorney in Chicago
The aftermath of a wrongful death is overwhelming. Emotions run high, and navigating the legal system can feel like an additional burden.
Our experienced wrongful death attorney can help you in the following ways:
- Understanding Your Rights – Our qualified attorney will explain your legal options. They will help you know if your loved one’s death meets the criteria for a wrongful death claim.
- Investigating the Incident – Our attorney will thoroughly examine the cause of the slip and fall, gather evidence, and interview witnesses. They will work with experts to build a strong case.
- Determining Liability – In slip-and-fall cases, liability often falls on property owners, managers, or other responsible parties. Our personal injury attorneys in Chicago will determine who is legally at fault and hold them accountable.
- Maximizing Compensation – While no amount of money can replace the loss of a loved one, pursuing a claim ensures that you receive fair compensation for your grief.
Understanding Slip and Fall Wrongful Death Cases and Law
Slip and fall accidents may seem minor, but they can result in severe injuries and, tragically, even death. In Illinois, wrongful death claims are governed by the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/).
It allows surviving family members to seek compensation when a loved one’s death is caused by negligence or misconduct.
Examples of negligent conditions leading to slip and fall fatalities include:
- Wet or slippery floors without proper warning signs
- Uneven sidewalks or poorly maintained walkways
- Faulty staircases or broken railings
- Lack of adequate lighting in public or private spaces
Property owners can and should be held accountable if they fail to maintain a safe environment and their negligence leads to a fatal accident.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents Leading to Wrongful Death
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere. They can happen on private properties, commercial buildings, or public spaces.
Some common causes that may lead to wrongful death claims include:
- Wet Floors: Spills left unattended or not properly cleaned up can create dangerous walking conditions.
- Poor Lighting: Insufficient lighting in hallways, staircases, or parking lots can lead to falls.
- Uneven Surfaces: Cracked sidewalks, loose carpeting, and uneven floorboards can cause tripping hazards.
- Lack of Warning Signs: Failing to warn others about wet floors, icy walkways, or construction zones can lead to accidents.
- Negligent Maintenance: Failure to maintain or repair hazardous conditions can lead to injury or death.
Steps to Take After a Fatal Slip and Fall Accident
The moments following a loved one’s fatal accident are overwhelming. But taking specific steps can protect your legal rights:
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident site, including hazards like wet floors, broken steps, or missing railings.
- Obtain Witness Information: Collect their contact details and statements if anyone witnessed the accident.
- Request Incident Reports: Ask for a copy of any reports filed by property management or authorities.
- Consult an Attorney Immediately: Illinois’ statute of limitations for wrongful death cases is typically two years from the date of death. Acting quickly ensures vital evidence is preserved.
Types of Damages in a Slip and Fall Wrongful Death Case
If you are considering filing a wrongful death claim, knowing what damages you may be entitled to is essential. In these cases, you could seek compensation for:
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Covering the financial burden of funeral and burial expenses.
- Medical Bills: Expenses related to your loved one’s medical treatment before death.
- Loss of Financial Support: If your loved one was the primary breadwinner, you may be entitled to compensation for future lost wages and benefits.
- Pain and Suffering: While this is a subjective area, compensation can be awarded for the emotional distress and grief caused by your loved one’s passing.
- Loss of Companionship: This can include compensation for the loss of love, guidance, and support the deceased provided to family members.
Why Choose Us for Your Wrongful Death Case?
At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we are committed to fighting for justice for families who have experienced the heartbreak of wrongful death. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Proven Track Record: We have successfully handled numerous slip-and-fall wrongful death cases and obtained millions in settlements for our clients.
- Personalized Service: We take the time to understand your unique situation and provide compassionate, individualized legal representation.
- Free Consultation: We provide free case reviews and feedback. This means you don’t pay anything for a consultation the first time.
Statistics That Matter
Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in the U.S. This includes both fatal and non-fatal falls, with older adults being mainly at risk.
- Slips and falls represent the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths in the U.S. after motor vehicle accidents. Source: National Safety Council – Injury Facts
- One in four older adults experiences a fall each year, with falls being the primary cause of injury-related deaths for this age group.
In Illinois, premises liability claims for slip and fall accidents have risen as property owners are held accountable for unsafe conditions. The Illinois Department of Public Health reports that fall-related injuries account for significant hospital admissions annually.
By understanding these sobering statistics, it’s clear that negligent property owners need to be held accountable. Especially in cases where a loved one’s death could have been prevented.
Get the Justice You Deserve, We’re Here to Help!
If you have lost a loved one due to a slip and fall accident, reach out to us for a free consultation. Our Chicago wrongful death lawyers will guide you through the legal process with empathy and commitment to securing the compensation.
Call Chicago Injury Lawyer today to schedule your consultation. Together, we can seek justice!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I file a wrongful death claim if the slip and fall happened on a public property?
Yes, even if the slip and fall occurred on public property, you may still file a wrongful death claim. However, government entities typically have unique rules and shorter deadlines for filing claims. It’s essential to work with an experienced attorney to navigate these complexities.
How can I prove that the property owner knew about the hazard before the accident?
In many slip and fall cases, proving knowledge of the hazard is crucial. Evidence like prior complaints about the same dangerous condition, maintenance records, or witness testimonies can help establish that the property owner was aware of the risk and failed to act.
Can I pursue a wrongful death case if the property owner’s actions were not intentionally malicious?
Yes. A wrongful death case does not require malicious intent. If the death occurred due to the property owner’s negligence or failure to maintain safe conditions, you can still pursue compensation.
