Slip and fall injuries are more than just embarrassing—they can lead to serious, life-changing injuries. If you’ve been hurt on someone else’s property in Chicago, taking the wrong steps after a fall can significantly weaken your case.
At Mannis Law, we’ve helped countless clients in Illinois hold property owners accountable for unsafe conditions. Here are the top mistakes to avoid after a slip and fall, and how to protect your right to fair compensation.
❌ Mistake #1: Failure to Report the Incident Immediately
Always report your fall to the property owner, manager, or store supervisor right away. Ask for a copy of the incident report if possible. Without this documentation, insurers may doubt your claim even happened.
❌ Mistake #2: Failing to Document the Scene
If you’re physically able:
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Take photos of the hazard (wet floor, broken step, ice, etc.)
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Snap pictures of your injuries, the surroundings, and any warning signs (or lack of them)
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Get contact info from witnesses who saw the fall
Waiting too long can result in evidence being cleaned up or lost.
❌ Mistake #3: Saying Too Much (or Admitting Fault)
Avoid phrases like:
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“I wasn’t paying attention”
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“I’m clumsy”
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“It’s not a big deal”
Even casual comments can be used to reduce or deny your claim. Stick to the facts when speaking with property staff or insurers
❌ Mistake #4: Skipping Medical Treatment
Some injuries (like head trauma or soft tissue damage) may not show symptoms right away. Always seek medical care and follow up with treatment. Gaps in care can hurt your case and delay healing.
❌ Mistake #5: Handling the Claim Alone
Insurance companies often blame the victim or downplay your injuries. A skilled slip and fall attorney can:
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Prove negligence by the property owner
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Gather and preserve crucial evidence
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Handle negotiations and paperwork
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Help you get the maximum compensation
🏙️ Chicago Property Owners Have a Duty
Whether you fell in a grocery store, apartment building, restaurant, or on a public sidewalk, property owners in Illinois are legally required to maintain safe conditions. If their negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to:
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Medical expenses
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Lost wages
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Pain and suffering
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Long-term disability damages
💼 Work with an Experienced Chicago Slip and Fall Lawyer
At Mannis Law, we’ve handled slip and fall claims across Chicago and Cook County for over 25 years. We offer:
✅ Free consultations
✅ No fees unless we win
✅ Personal attention and prompt communication
📞 Contact Us Today
Call 312-704-4300 or visit www.mannis.com to discuss your slip and fall case with a trusted Chicago premises liability attorney.