Des Plaines Slip & Fall Lawyer

Reclaim Justice After Des Plaines Slip-and-Fall Accidents

A slip-and-fall may seem minor, but for many victims, it marks the beginning of a painful and expensive recovery. In Des Plaines, where older buildings, high foot traffic, and harsh winters combine, property owners are legally obligated to maintain safe premises. When they fail to do so, victims can face broken bones, head injuries, spinal trauma, or worse.

At SJ Injury Law, we help injured individuals throughout Illinois and Wisconsin recover compensation for falls caused by unsafe property conditions. Led by Attorney Keith Shindler, who has secured more than $155 million for his clients, our firm fights to hold negligent property owners accountable. We understand the devastating physical and financial toll these incidents take,  and we work tirelessly to ensure victims receive justice under Illinois law.

Where Slip And Fall Accidents Commonly Occur In Des Plaines

Des Plaines’ mix of residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, and commuter routes creates numerous opportunities for slip-and-fall accidents. Hazards are frequently reported in:

• Retail Stores and Restaurants along Lee Street, Rand Road, and Touhy Avenue, where spills, clutter, or wet floors are often left unmarked.
• Apartment Complexes and Condominiums, especially in older developments near Mount Prospect Road and Oakton Street, where poor lighting and broken stairs are common.
• Sidewalks and Parking Lots during the winter months, when untreated ice and snow create treacherous conditions.
• Public Buildings, such as libraries, schools, or offices, where maintenance lapses lead to avoidable hazards.

We investigate every detail, from maintenance policies to prior complaints, to prove negligence and secure the evidence necessary for a strong claim.

Local Hospitals And Courts Serving Des Plaines

Injured victims in Des Plaines are often treated at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge or Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights. Both provide trauma and orthopedic care essential to recovering from fractures, concussions, and spinal injuries. These hospitals’ medical documentation is also a key part of proving damages in court.

Slip and fall claims from Des Plaines are generally filed in the Cook County Circuit Court – Third Municipal District (Rolling Meadows Courthouse). Our firm’s experience in this court system enables us to move cases efficiently and anticipate the defense strategies of large property management and insurance companies.

Illinois Law On Slip And Fall Liability

Slip and fall claims are governed by the Illinois Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130). This law requires property owners and occupiers to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition and to warn visitors of known dangers.

To prove a case, the injured person must show that:

1. A dangerous condition existed.
2. The owner knew or should have known about it.
3. The hazard caused the injury.

Victims generally have two years to file a lawsuit under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, though claims involving public entities may have shorter deadlines. Illinois also follows modified comparative negligence (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), meaning you can recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault, but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

In winter cases, Illinois courts distinguish between “natural” and “unnatural” accumulations of ice and snow. While property owners are not typically liable for natural accumulations, they can be held responsible for unnatural accumulations caused by negligent plowing, poor drainage, or misdirected downspouts.

Common Causes Of Slip And Fall Accidents

• Wet or freshly mopped floors without warning signs.
• Cracked pavement or uneven sidewalks.
• Leaks or spills in grocery stores or restaurants.
• Snow or ice left untreated in parking lots.
• Poor lighting in stairways or hallways.
• Worn carpeting or loose floor mats.

Each of these hazards can lead to serious injuries that require hospitalization or long-term therapy. We gather maintenance records, witness statements, and video surveillance to establish how long the hazard existed and whether the owner ignored clear warning signs.

Common Injuries In Slip And Fall Cases

Slip and fall victims often suffer injuries that affect mobility and quality of life, including:

• Hip and Pelvic Fractures – Common among older adults and frequently requiring surgery.
• Head and Brain Injuries – Concussions and traumatic brain injuries caused by sudden impact.
• Spinal Cord Injuries – Herniated discs, nerve compression, and chronic pain.
• Broken Wrists and Ankles – Caused by instinctively bracing during a fall.
• Shoulder and Knee Injuries – Torn ligaments and rotator cuff damage.

These injuries can prevent victims from returning to work or performing normal daily activities. At SJ Injury Law, we work closely with orthopedic specialists and rehabilitation experts to demonstrate how your injury affects your earning capacity and long-term independence.

Damages Available Under Illinois Law

Victims of slip and fall accidents in Des Plaines may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses – Hospitalization, surgery, therapy, and future treatment costs.
• Lost Income – Wages lost during recovery and reduced future earning potential.
• Pain and Suffering – Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury.
• Loss of Normal Life – The inability to enjoy everyday activities and relationships.
• Permanent Disability or Scarring – Compensation for visible injuries or reduced mobility.
• Wrongful Death Damages – Funeral and burial expenses, and the loss of financial or emotional support in fatal fall cases.

We build comprehensive damage models with input from financial and medical experts to ensure full recovery for our clients.

Why Victims Need Legal Representation

Slip and fall cases are rarely simple. Property owners often argue they lacked notice of the hazard or that the danger was obvious. Insurers may claim that the victim was distracted or not watching their step. Without a skilled attorney, these defenses can derail even legitimate claims.

At SJ Injury Law, we take immediate action, such as preserving evidence, sending notice to property owners, and securing expert inspections. Our experience with Illinois premises liability law ensures that your case is built correctly from day one, maximizing your leverage in settlement negotiations or at trial.

Why Choose SJ Injury Law

Choosing SJ Injury Law means choosing a team with proven results and personal dedication. Attorney Keith Shindler has helped clients recover more than $155 million across Illinois and Wisconsin. We know the Des Plaines area, its local courts, and the common defense tactics used by property owners and insurers.

Clients communicate directly with their attorney, not a case manager, and receive personalized updates on their case. We also proudly serve Spanish-speaking clients – Se Habla Español.

Our motto reflects our mission and our results – Let Us Help You Claim Your Justice^®!

Frequently Asked Questions About Des Plaines Slip And Fall Claims

How Long Do I Have To File A Claim?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, most slip and fall claims must be filed within two years of the accident. Government claims have shorter deadlines.

What If I Were Partly At Fault?

You can still recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault, though your award is reduced by your fault percentage under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116.

What If The Fall Happened On Ice Or Snow?

You may have a case if the ice was caused by an unnatural accumulation, such as poor drainage or negligent snow removal.

Will My Case Go To Trial?

Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare each claim as if it will be presented to a jury to ensure the best outcome.

What Does It Cost To Hire SJ Injury Law?

We work on a contingency basis, meaning there are no upfront fees and you pay only if we win your case.