Bill would make it harder for bowlers to sue for Chicago slip and falls
The Chicago Sun Times is reporting that on Friday, the Illinois Senate passed a bill protecting bowling alley owners from lawsuits by people who slip and fall because of going outside in their bowling shoes.
The bill, which is awaiting Gov. Quinn's approval, would allow owners to warn people through posted signs that bowling shoes should be worn only inside the bowling alley. That way, if bowlers venture outside and accumulate rain or snow on their shoes and then slip while bowling, alley owners wouldn't be held responsible.
According to lawmakers, the bill protects bowling alley owners from lawsuits from patrons who leave the alley to and return with wet feet, creating a hazard that could result in slips or falls. The bill doesn’t legislate away plaintiffs' rights to sue when a property owner is negligent though. Chicago store owners still must inspect their property for potential dangers and either fix a problem within a reasonable time period or warn the public of those defects.
Comments about this post can be directed to the Chicago Slip and Fall attorneys at Shea Law Group. If you have been injured on another person’s property, please contact us for a free consultation.
