September 22, 2025 | Personal Injury
Wrigley Field is one of the most iconic ballparks in the country, drawing millions of fans every year. But with large crowds, food vendors, and the natural risks of baseball games, accidents can and do happen. If you are asking, “What are my legal options if I get injured at Wrigley Field in Chicago?” The answer depends on how the injury occurred, who is responsible, and what steps you take afterward.
Common Causes of Injuries at Wrigley Field
Large stadiums like Wrigley Field present a variety of potential hazards.
Some of the most common include:
- Slip and fall accidents: Wet steps, spilled drinks, or uneven walkways can cause serious falls
- Foodborne illness: Improperly stored or handled concessions may lead to food poisoning
- Flying objects: Foul balls, bats, or even equipment can strike unsuspecting fans
- Escalator and stairway accidents: Overcrowding or poor maintenance can lead to falls and injuries
- Fights or assaults: Inadequate security or overserved patrons may create dangerous situations
Each of these scenarios can result in significant injuries, from broken bones to concussions or long-term medical issues.
Premises Liability and Stadium Responsibility
Under Illinois premises liability law, stadium owners have a duty to keep their property reasonably safe for visitors. This means they must repair hazards they know about or should know about through regular inspections. If the stadium fails to address unsafe conditions, it may be held responsible for any injuries that result.
Examples include failing to clean up spills promptly, ignoring broken seating, or not repairing handrails on stairways. If these hazards cause an injury, you may be able to file a claim against the stadium for damages.
The Baseball Rule and Its Limits
One of the most debated legal issues in stadium cases is the “baseball rule.” This rule generally protects stadiums from liability for injuries caused by foul balls or flying bats, since those risks are considered an inherent part of the game. Fans are deemed to assume certain dangers simply by attending.
However, the baseball rule is not absolute. If protective netting or barriers are missing in areas where they are reasonably expected, or if warnings are inadequate, the stadium may still be liable. For example, if you were sitting in a section without appropriate safety netting and were struck by a foul ball, you may have grounds for a claim.
Third-Party Liability
Not all injuries are directly tied to stadium ownership. Sometimes responsibility lies with third parties working at Wrigley Field.
These can include:
- Food vendors: Responsible for safely preparing and storing food and drinks
- Contractors: In charge of escalator, elevator, or other maintenance
- Security companies: Tasked with handling fights, rowdy fans, or unsafe conditions
If a third party fails to act reasonably and someone is injured, they may share liability with the stadium. This means multiple defendants could be responsible for paying damages.
What to Do After an Injury at Wrigley Field
Taking the right steps after an injury can strengthen your case.
If you are hurt, you should:
- Report the incident to stadium staff or security right away
- Take photographs of the hazard, your injuries, and the surrounding area
- Gather contact information from witnesses who saw what happened
- Seek prompt medical attention and keep detailed records of treatment
- Save bills, receipts, and evidence of lost wages connected to the injury
These actions document what happened and make it easier to prove your claim later. Without strong evidence, it may be harder to hold the responsible party accountable.
Types of Damages You Can Recover
Victims of stadium injuries may be able to pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic losses.
Potential damages include:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, follow-up care, and rehabilitation
- Lost income if you miss work due to your injuries
- Reduced earning capacity if you are left with long-term limitations
- Pain and suffering, including both physical and emotional harm
- Out-of-pocket costs, such as transportation to medical appointments
The value of a claim depends on the severity of the injury and the strength of the evidence showing liability.
Contact the Chicago Premises Liability Lawyers at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for Help Today
What are my legal options if I get injured at Wrigley Field in Chicago, depends on the cause of the accident. You may file a premises liability claim against the stadium, pursue action against a third party, or seek compensation through your own insurance. In some cases, multiple parties may be responsible.
If you’ve been injured at Wrigley Field, Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers is here to help. Our Chicago premises liability attorneys can help you navigate Illinois law, meet filing deadlines, and recover the damages you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
We serve Cook County and its surrounding areas:
Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
5351 West Belmont Avenue
Chicago, IL 60641
(312) 635-5400
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