1. Proving Liability is Difficult

• • • In a slip and fall case, you must prove negligence—that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to fix it.
    • Property owners and insurance companies often argue that the accident was your fault or that the hazard was not foreseeable. A lawyer gathers evidence to counter these claims.

2. Dealing with Insurance Companies

• • • Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts and may deny or undervalue your claim.
    • A slip and fall attorney knows how to negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive fair compensation.

3. Understanding Illinois Premises Liability Laws

• • • In Illinois, premises liability laws govern slip and fall cases, but proving negligence depends on factors like:
      • Whether you were an invitee, licensee, or trespasser on the property.
      • Whether the property owner had reasonable time to fix the hazard.
      • If proper warning signs were present.
    • An attorney ensures your case is built according to Illinois law.

4. Gathering Crucial Evidence

• • • A lawyer will help collect and analyze:
      • Surveillance footage
      • Witness statements
      • Incident reports
      • Medical records
      • Expert testimony (e.g., safety specialists)
    • This evidence strengthens your case and prevents property owners from destroying key records.

5. Maximizing Compensation

• • • Slip and fall injuries can lead to medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term disability.
    • A lawyer ensures you pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.

6. Meeting Legal Deadlines

• • • In Illinois, the statute of limitations for a slip and fall lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident.
    • If you miss this deadline, you lose your right to compensation. A lawyer ensures all paperwork is filed on time.

7. No Upfront Costs

• • • Most slip and fall attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.

Since slip and fall cases can be difficult to prove without proper legal guidance, hiring an attorney increases your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured, contact Larry Kraut today to start your case right away!