Can I Sue If I Am Injured at a Chicago Restaurant?

 Posted on September 30, 2024 in Premises Liability

Many people enjoy eating in the many fine restaurants in and around Chicago. Whether they choose small family-owned eateries or five-star establishments, diners expect to remain unharmed while on the premises. Restaurant owners are legally obligated to maintain safe facilities and serve safe foods and beverages. Unfortunately, not every restauranteur complies with these obligations.

If you suffer harm at a restaurant, you may be able to file a premises liability claim for compensation. This type of personal injury case can be tricky, but a competent attorney from Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC knows how to establish liability and hold the at-fault parties accountable.

What Obligations Do Restaurants Have To Keep Patrons Safe?

The Illinois Premises Liability Act  sets various expectations for property owners and occupiers. The responsible party should use reasonable care to keep invitees and licenses safe. For restaurants, reasonable safety precautions might include:

• Keeping all floors and outdoor walking surfaces clean and clear of spills, debris, or walking obstacles
• Providing adequate security
• Repairing broken pavement or flooring
• Installing and maintaining handrails on stairways
• Ensuring sufficient lighting
• Securing all lighting and decor items to prevent them from falling
• Following food safety best practices
• Informing diners about potential food allergies
• Keeping dining furniture and restaurant equipment in good repair
• Training and supervising servers and staff adequately

This lengthy list only includes some of the obligations of restaurant owners. If you are injured at a restaurant due to negligence, you might qualify for compensation. Your skilled lawyer from Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC can tell you if you are eligible during your free consultation.

What Kinds of Incidents Can Injure You at Restaurants?

Some common restaurant patron incidents include:

• Slip-and-fall accidents due to torn carpet, poor lighting, unmopped spills, slick surfaces, broken pavement, or loose flooring
• Scalding or burning due to extremely hot foods or plates or servers dropping hot items onto diners
• Food poisoning or allergic reactions
• Assaults
• Seating collapse
• Falling shelves, decor, or other heavy objects

These and other incidents can cause significant injuries, such as broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, bruises, cuts, and internal bleeding. Foodborne illnesses and allergic reactions can cause many symptoms or even lead to death.

What Would My Restaurant Injury Settlement Include?

Every situation is different, and Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC cannot answer that question until we examine case-specific factors. When there is evidence of negligence on the part of the restaurant owner, property owner, or other responsible party, you may qualify to receive damages for losses including:

• Medical treatment costs
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Inconvenience

Your legal team will assess your eligible damages and help you collect the highest amount available.

Call Our Chicago, IL Premises Liability Lawyers Today

The longer you wait to call Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC, the harder it may become to find supporting evidence for your claim against the restaurant where you were harmed. Your consultation is free, so there is no reason to wait. Call 312-236-6324 to discuss your case with our dedicated Chicago, IL personal injury attorneys now.