Slip and Fall at McDonald’s in Chicago

Helping McDonald’s Slip and Fall Victims in Chicago Seek Compensation for Their Injuries

At Slip & Fall Injury Lawyers, we represent people injured in a slip and fall at McDonald’s across Chicago. Whether you were a customer or an employee, a fall in a fast food setting can lead to serious injuries and costly medical bills. 

We’ve handled fall cases involving greasy kitchen floors, wet entryways, slippery drive-thru areas, and other dangerous conditions at McDonald’s restaurants throughout the state. We’re here to help you seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Our firm offers the legal support you need to move forward.

Slip and Fall Settlements & Verdicts Recovered by Our Chicago Law Firm

We’ve recovered millions for injured victims in slip and fall cases, including claims against major fast food chains like McDonald’s.

$2,600,000 Settlement – Marcus, a delivery worker, slipped on grease tracked from the kitchen into the back hallway of a McDonald’s on Chicago’s South Side. The floor had no warning signs, and cleaning logs showed staff had skipped routine inspections. Marcus tore ligaments in his knee and required surgery, followed by months of rehab. His inability to return to physical work and the store’s failure to correct a known hazard led to a $2.6 million settlement.

$1,500,000 Settlement – Henry, an 82-year-old customer, fell down a poorly lit stairwell leading to the restrooms at a McDonald’s in the West Loop. Our investigation revealed that the stairway and handrails violated local building codes and lacked required lighting. Henry suffered multiple fractures and lasting mobility issues. The combination of unsafe design, insufficient lighting, and his vulnerability as an older adult significantly increased the case value, resulting in a $1.5 million settlement.

$1,000,000 Settlement – Tanya tripped over an unsecured extension cord plugged into a wall outlet near the drink station at a McDonald’s on the North Side. The cord had been left stretched across a walkway during a store maintenance project. She fell hard on the tile floor, fracturing her hand and wrist. Surveillance footage and witness statements confirmed the setup was left unattended for hours. Her extended recovery time and clear evidence of store negligence led to a $1 million settlement.

Why Choose Us for Your McDonald’s Slip and Fall Case

At Slip & Fall Injury Lawyers, we’re known for our results in slip and fall cases involving national fast food chains—including corporate-owned and franchised McDonald’s restaurants across Chicago. 

With decades of experience and a strong track record, our team understands how to hold large companies accountable when slippery floors, wet entryways, or other hazardous conditions lead to preventable injuries. 

We’ve recovered over $500 million for injured clients and are recognized by Super Lawyers and Avvo for our legal skill and client advocacy. 

What Causes Slips and Falls at McDonald’s in Chicago?

Slip and fall accidents at McDonald’s in Chicago often happen because of overlooked hazards or poor maintenance. Common causes include slippery floors with no warning signs after mopping or spills, or grease tracked from kitchen areas into customer walkways. Other risks involve leaky drink machines, ice dispensers, or overfilled trash bins near self-service stations. 

Many injuries also occur near entrances where floor mats are missing or bunched up. Outside, uneven pavement, cracked curbs, and poorly maintained parking areas create slipping and tripping risks. When a facility fails to address these dangers, it may be liable for resulting injuries.

What Are Common Injuries Sustained in Slips and Falls at McDonald’s?

A slip and fall accident can result in a wide range of injuries, especially with hard tile floors and tight spaces. Victims often suffer broken wrists, arms, or hips when trying to brace themselves during the fall. Back injuries and spinal damage are also common, particularly in backward falls. 

Head trauma can occur from striking the floor, counters, or nearby fixtures, leading to concussions or even more severe outcomes. Others experience facial fractures, dental injuries, knee and ankle ligament tears, or soft tissue damage. These injuries often require ongoing medical care and may result in chronic pain.

What Damages Can Injured Victims Recover in Chicago?

If you were hurt in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for a range of losses. This includes medical bills, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation costs. You can also pursue damages for lost wagesand reduced future earning capacity if your injuries keep you from working. 

Non-economic damages may cover pain, suffering, and emotional distress. In more serious cases, compensation may include scarring, disfigurement, or disability. Additional expenses—such as transportation to appointments, in-home care, or mobility aids—can also be recovered through a successful slip and fall case.

What Is the Average Payout for Slip and Fall Accidents at McDonald’s?

According to Law.com‘s VerdictSearch, the average payout for a slip and fall accident at McDonald’s is $613,948, while the median settlement is $216,341. Payouts in these cases can vary widely depending on several key factors:

• Severity of injuries: Cases involving head trauma, broken bones, or surgeries typically result in higher compensation.
• Liability evidence: Clear proof that McDonald’s failed to clean a spill or maintain a safe area (such as surveillance footage or incident reports) strengthens the case.
• Medical expenses and lost income: The higher the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and missed work, the higher the potential settlement.
• Permanency of injuries: Long-term or permanent impairments (like chronic pain or limited mobility) increase damages for pain and suffering and future income loss.
• Negligence and notice: If it can be shown that McDonald’s staff knew—or should have known—about the hazard, the value of the claim often increases.
• Venue and jury tendencies: Outcomes may also differ depending on the court location, with some jurisdictions awarding larger verdicts than others.

Every fall accident is different, but these settlements show that serious injuries linked to dangerous conditions at McDonald’s can lead to significant financial recovery.

Example Slip and Fall Injury Cases Involving McDonald’s

$685,000 Verdict – Teen Suffers Long-Term Knee Damage After Slip at McDonald’s Drink Station

Antonia Bailey, 16, slipped on a wet floor near the drink machines at a McDonald’s in Conyers. Her attorneys proved that the franchise failed to place proper signs after mopping. Bailey underwent multiple knee surgeries and continues to experience pain. A jury awarded her and her mother a combined $685,000 for past and future medical costs, pain and suffering, and interest.

$486,402 Verdict – Head Injury and Concussion After Slipping on Milkshake at Texas McDonald’s

Steve Ballinger fell after slipping on a milkshake inside a McDonald’s. He suffered a concussion and broken finger, later developing lasting cognitive and emotional symptoms. The defense argued his symptoms stemmed from a prior head injury, but the jury found the restaurant mostly at fault and awarded Ballinger $486,402 after applying comparative fault and interest.

$261,000 Verdict – Multiple Surgeries After Slipping on Water Outside McDonald’s in Mall

Margaret Wahlen slipped on water near a McDonald’s in a shopping mall in El Cajon, California. She required four surgeries on her knee and shoulder. Although liability was disputed among multiple parties, including the mall and a janitorial company, the jury found McDonald’s 51% at fault and awarded Wahlen $261,000 in damages. Cross-claims between defendants remained unresolved.

Why You Need Legal Representation

Having legal representation after a slip and fall accident is essential. These cases often come with added challenges—McDonald’s may claim the location is franchised and not their responsibility, or delay providing clear answers. Surveillance footage can be deleted quickly if not preserved, and staff reports may be vague or downplay what happened. 

Corporate risk management teams are trained to shift blame. At Slip & Fall Injury Lawyers, we have experience handling claims against major fast food brands and know how to pursue both franchise and corporate liability to hold the right parties accountable.

How Common Are Slip and Fall Accidents at McDonald’s?

According to the National Restaurant Association, slips and falls are the leading cause of general liability insurance claims across the restaurant industry. This pattern is apparent within McDonald’s operations. For the 2012 program year, slip and fall incidents made up 53% of all general liability claims filed under the McDonald’s Insurance Program, accounting for 44% of every claim dollar paid. 

Where Do McDonald’s Restaurant Slip and Fall Accidents Occur in Chicago?

Slip and fall accidents at Chicago McDonald’s locations often happen in high-traffic locations and poorly maintained areas. We’ve seen cases near CTA stations like State & Lake and the Roosevelt Red Line, where constant foot traffic increases the risk of slips near entrances or drink stations. Busy drive-thru locations in neighborhoods like Englewood, Belmont Cragin, and Garfield Ridge often have uneven pavement or poorly lit parking lots. 

Urban storefronts in the Loop and West Loop face hazards from tracked-in water and cluttered service areas. On the North Side, McDonald’s restaurants near parks or schools frequently see fall accidents during peak hours. Common problem spots include front entrances, fry counters, bathroom hallways, and around self-serve drink machines. When these dangerous conditions aren’t addressed, both customers and employees are at risk for injuries.

What Laws Govern McDonald’s Slip and Fall Claims in Chicago?

Under Illinois Comparative Negligence Law (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), if you’re injured in a slip and fall that you’re partially at fault for, you can still recover damages, as long as you’re less than 50% responsible. Any award is reduced based on your share of fault, making it vital to build a strong case.

The Illinois Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130/) holds property owners, including McDonald’s, responsible for maintaining safe premises. If a slip and fall occurs due to an unsafe condition, the injured party may bring a premises liability claim to pursue compensation for their losses.

Chicago Municipal Code § 10-8-180 requires businesses, including McDonald’s restaurants, to clear snow and ice from adjacent sidewalks. Failure to do so may lead to accidents and expose the property owner or operator to liability for injuries caused by slippery conditions outside the restaurant.

In the case of Ward v. K Mart Corp., 136 Ill. 2d 132 (1990), the Illinois Supreme Court ruled that businesses may still be liable for obvious hazards if the injury was foreseeable. This is key in claims where conditions like spilled drinks or floor mats could cause injury, even if visible.

How Long Do I Have to Take Legal Action in Illinois?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, you generally have two years from the date of the slip and fall at McDonald’s to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to seek compensation, so it’s essential to act quickly and preserve evidence.

Who Is Legally Liable for a Slip and Fall at McDonald’s?

Liability for a slip and fall at McDonald’s depends on who controls the property and maintains safety. In many cases, the local franchise owner is responsible for day-to-day operations and conditions inside the restaurant. 

If the location is corporate-owned, McDonald’s Corporation itself may be liable. When the restaurant is part of a shopping center, the property owner could also share responsibility, especially for parking lots or sidewalks. 

Additionally, janitorial services or snow removal contractors may be liable if their failure caused a hazardous condition. Our firm investigates leases, service contracts, and ownership records to determine who should be held accountable.

Common Defenses in Slip and Fall Claims Involving McDonald’s

In slip and fall claims involving McDonald’s, the defense often argues the spill “just happened” and staff had no time to clean it, or that the area was marked with a sign. They may also claim the hazard was “open and obvious” or that the injured person wasn’t paying attention. 

We challenge these defenses by obtaining time-stamped surveillance footage, reviewing cleaning logs, and analyzing store protocols. Case law like Ward v. K Mart and Deibert v. Bauer Bros. helps counter foreseeability and distraction arguments, especially when the facility failed to act on known risks or violated safety procedures.

How to Build a Strong Slip and Fall Case Against McDonald’s

To build a strong case against McDonald’s, taking the proper steps immediately after the accident can make all the difference. 

First, report the fall to a staff member or store manager and make sure it’s documented. Request a copy of the incident report, if possible. Take photos or videos of the hazardous condition before it’s cleaned up. Note if any security cameras were nearby and where they were located. Keep the shoes and clothing you were wearing, as they may serve as evidence later. 

Most importantly, seek medical attention immediately—even if you feel okay—and contact a fall lawyer right away. Early legal involvement helps preserve evidence, protect your rights, and improve your chances of recovering all possible compensation.

How an Experienced Attorney Can Help

An experienced attorney can make a major difference in your slip-and-fall case at McDonald’s. At Slip & Fall Injury Lawyers, we start by determining whether the restaurant is franchise- or corporate-owned, which affects who is legally responsible. We immediately send preservation letters to secure surveillance footage and collect cleaning records and maintenance logs. 

Our team consults with safety experts and medical professionals to support your claim and document the full extent of your injuries. We handle negotiations directly with McDonald’s claims teams, and if needed, we’re prepared to take your case to Cook County court to fight for fair compensation.

FAQs

How much does a slip and fall lawyer cost?

We don’t charge any upfront fees. Our legal representation is provided on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay if we win your case and recover compensation on your behalf.

Can I sue McDonald’s if I fell at a franchise location?

Yes. Whether the location is owned by a franchisee or McDonald’s Corporation, you still have the right to file a slip and fall claim. Our team will investigate ownership, review contracts, and determine whether the franchise owner, corporate office, or both can be held liable based on the facts of your case.

How do I deal with the insurance company?

It’s best to avoid speaking directly with the insurance company without legal help. Their goal is to minimize payouts or shift blame. Our fall lawyers handle all communication, gather witness statements and medical records, and fight for fair compensation so you don’t have to deal with lowball offers or pressure tactics.

Book a Free Consultation

If you or a family member were injured in a slip and fall at McDonald’s in Chicago, don’t wait to get legal help. At Slip & Fall Injury Lawyers, we offer a free consultation to review your case and explain your options. You pay no upfront fees—we work on a contingency basis, meaning we only get paid if you win. 

Our team has a proven track record of holding McDonald’s and other fast food operators accountable for dangerous conditions. Contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney about your right to recover compensation.