What Should I Do if I Was Injured at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago?

Muhammad Ramadan | January 12, 2024 | Premises Liability

Visiting zoos is a favorite pastime for many families. With enclosures that seem secure, many people feel safe visiting animals in this environment since they can’t see them in their natural habitat. However, there have been many dangerous incidents involving injuries at zoos. These dangerous incidents include a visitor having his finger bitten off by a lion, a zookeeper being mauled to death, a killing by a whale, and a killing and injury to two others when a tiger escaped. 

From animal bites to slips and falls and other personal injury incidents, zoos can be a surprising location for serious injuries and even death. If you or your child is injured while visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, IL, below is a list of steps to protect your health and legal rights. 

1. Report the Incident 

Report the incident immediately to the zoo authorities. If you’re unsure where to report the incident, find the nearest zookeeper or other staff member. Tell them what happened, including the enclosure or other area where the incident happened and the animal involved. Write down the name of the person you reported the incident to and their job title. 

Ask for a copy of the accident report when it is available. If you think the incident involved criminal activity, call the police. 

2. Gather Evidence

All zoos, including the Lincoln Zoo, are responsible for maintaining their properties and making them safe for visitors. This includes using appropriate enclosures, providing sufficient training to staff, correcting hazards, and putting up adequate warning signs. If you see any of these areas lacking, try to gather this evidence near the time of the accident. 

If witnesses observe the incident, ask for their names and contact information. Take pictures or video of the accident scene, including any conditions that might have contributed to the accident. This may include a broken latch on an enclosure or poured liquid on the ground. Write down your version of events while your memory is fresh. 

3. Seek Medical Treatment 

Seek immediate medical attention to tend to any injuries you suffer. This may involve visiting the emergency room or your primary care doctor’s office. Inform your medical team of the attack and report any symptoms you are experiencing, including pain, visible injuries, limited range of motion, or other issues. 

Keep in mind that even if you don’t experience symptoms right away, you may still have been injured. Some symptoms are not immediately apparent. Also, the initial shock of the incident might mask them. 

As you progress with your treatment, follow your doctor’s orders and keep all your medical records.

Contact a Premises Liability Lawyer in Chicago

Finally, reach out to an experienced premises liability lawyer. Lawyers understand the various laws that may apply to your case. This includes the requirements of property owners, how to handle claims related to defective equipment, and the safety measures that need to be put in place. 

A lawyer can review your situation and explain whether you have a viable compensation claim. An attorney can also investigate the accident to determine who is responsible for it and work to preserve evidence. Your lawyer can also explain the time limit you have to make a claim. This will help ensure you are eligible for compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Contact Our Chicago Premises Liability Law Firm For Help Today

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, Illinois, and need legal help, contact our experienced premises liability lawyers at Attorneys of Chicago Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.

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