Illinois premises liability law governs slip and fall cases. Property owners fight these claims aggressively — knowing the rules and acting quickly is essential.
Statute of Limitations
Illinois statute of limitations for slip and fall claims: 2 years from the date of the incident. Illinois has a 2-year statute of limitations for slip and fall claims (735 ILCS 5/13-202). Claims against Illinois government entities require a notice under the Local Governmental and Governmental Employees Tort Immunity Act — typically within 1 year for local government and subject to specific procedural requirements.
Illinois premises liability is governed by the Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130/1 et seq.) which replaced the common law invitee/licensee distinction with a reasonable care standard for all lawful visitors. Illinois property owners must exercise ordinary care in the maintenance of their property.
Illinois-Specific Tip
Illinois has a 2-year statute of limitations for slip and fall claims (735 ILCS 5/13-202). Claims against Illinois government entities require a notice under the Local Governmental and Governmental Employees Tort Immunity Act — typically within 1 year for local government and subject to specific procedural requirements.
📊 Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of emergency room visits in Illinois.
Report the incident to the property manager immediately and get a written incident report
Photograph the hazard, surrounding conditions, lighting, and signage
Send a written request to preserve all surveillance footage — most businesses overwrite within 24-72 hours
Get witness contact information
Seek medical attention within 24 hours
Do NOT sign anything from the property owner or their insurer
Preserve your footwear and clothing — they are evidence
Contact a Illinois premises liability attorney before speaking with the property's insurance company
2 years from the date of the incident. Illinois has a 2-year statute of limitations for slip and fall claims (735 ILCS 5/13-202). Claims against Illinois government entities require a notice under the Local Governmental and Governmental Employees Tort Immunity Act — typically within 1 year for local government and subject to specific procedural requirements.
You must generally prove the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to fix it or warn you. Illinois premises liability is governed by the Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130/1 et seq.) which replaced the common law invitee/licensee distinction with a reasonable care standard for all lawful visitors. Illinois property owners must exercise ordinary care in the maintenance of their property.
Illinois slip and fall settlements depend on injury severity and strength of liability. Minor injuries may settle for $10,000-$50,000. Serious injuries including fractures, spinal injuries, or traumatic brain injuries can be worth $100,000 or more.
No upfront cost. Contingency fees — you only pay if you win.
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