Premises Liability
Attorneys Serving the Chicagoland Area
Injured on Someone Else’s Property? Let’s Talk.
When you’re invited onto someone’s property—whether it’s a store, apartment complex, or public space—you have the right to expect that space to be safe. If unsafe conditions lead to a fall, injury, or accident, you may be entitled to compensation under Illinois premises liability laws.
At Stiberth, Scarlati & Boudreau, LLC, we help injured individuals throughout Elgin and the greater Chicagoland area pursue fair compensation for accidents caused by property owner negligence. From slip-and-falls to falling objects, we’re here to investigate what happened, hold the responsible party accountable, and help you move forward with confidence.
Types of Premises Liability Cases We Handle
Premises liability doesn’t just mean slipping on a wet floor. It can apply to any injury caused by dangerous conditions on private, commercial, or public property.
Slip, Trip & Fall Accidents
Wet floors, uneven sidewalks, loose carpets, icy walkways, or poor lighting.
Falling Objects
Merchandise or unsecured items that fall from shelves or overhead storage.
Unsafe Stairways or Handrails
Broken steps or missing safety features in stairwells and walkways.
Negligent Security
Injuries or assaults due to a lack of proper lighting, security staff, or cameras.
Child Injuries & Dangerous Conditions
Unfenced pools, open hazards, or attractions that pose risk to children.
Construction Site Hazards
If you’re injured near or on a construction site due to inadequate warnings or barriers.
What Property Owners Are Responsible For
Illinois law requires property owners to maintain reasonably safe premises for visitors. That includes:
Fixing known hazards in a timely manner
Providing proper warnings for unsafe areas
Conducting regular maintenance and safety checks
Taking steps to protect visitors from foreseeable harm
If an owner knew—or should have known—about a danger and failed to act, they may be liable for your injuries. We’ll help you gather the evidence needed to make your case.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions About Premises Liability
How do I prove a property owner was responsible for my injury?
You must show that the owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to fix it or warn you. We investigate thoroughly to document the hazard, its cause, and whether proper steps were taken to prevent injury.
What if I fell but didn’t report it right away?
You should report the incident to the property owner or manager as soon as possible—but even if you didn’t, you may still have a valid claim. It’s important to seek medical attention immediately and document your injuries.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
In Illinois, you can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% at fault. Your compensation may be reduced based on your level of responsibility.
Is there a time limit to file a premises liability claim in Illinois?
Yes. You generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. If the accident occurred on government property, shorter deadlines may apply. Don’t wait—talk to an attorney as soon as possible.