If you suffer an injury on a property belonging to someone else, you may be able to file a premises liability lawsuit. According to Illinois law, property owners have a responsibility to ensure their environments are free of defective or unsafe conditions. If a property owner knows or should know about a dangerous condition and neglects to remedy it, you could become a victim.
In this case, you can sue the property owner for negligence and get compensation for your injury. Here are some common examples of accidents and injuries that often lead to premises liability case.
1. Slip, trip and fall
Falling accidents are common and generally straightforward. Some hazards that cause slips, trips and falls include:
- Wet floors
- Defective staircases
- Loose carpets or rugs
- Accumulation of rain, snow or ice
- Hidden wiring or extension cords
- Loose floorboards
- Insufficient railing
If you are hurt because of these conditions and the owner fails to resolve them or warn you about them, you may have a legal claim.
2. Swimming pool accidents
Swimming pools are at many apartment complexes, hotels and recreational centers. Some pools do not have proper supervision or security. Both adults and children may suffer an injury at a swimming pool without proper oversight.
3. Inadequate security
All buildings should be safe and secure, but some are more prone to security risks than others. Cases involving inadequate security usually occur in offices, apartment buildings or hotels. Owners and managers of these properties have a responsibility to secure access and keep criminals out. If someone gets inside a building and assaults you, you may be able to bring a premises liability lawsuit against the owner if you can prove he or she did not properly secure the building.
Injuries can be frustrating and devastating, but thankfully you have legal options. Talk to a lawyer to figure out if you have a premises liability case.