Woman sues Northwestern University after falling in entryway

A Cook County woman filed suit against Northwestern University claiming she was injured she fell on the university's campus in 2013.

Frances Larimer filed a complaint May 8 in Cook County Circuit Court against Northwestern University, claiming negligence.

The suit states, while Larimer was on the premises of Scott Hall, located at 601 University Place in Evanston, on May 17, 2013, the university breached its duty to exercise reasonable care in the maintenance of the building’s entryway and exterior steps and walkway. Northwestern is listed as the owner, operator and manager of the property.

According to the complaint, Larimer tripped and fell near the entryway’s step, landing or walkway, and allegedly sustained severe and permanent personal injuries.

The lawsuit cites Northwestern for improperly inspecting and maintaining its premises, failing to provide slip-resistant surfaces for pedestrians, neglecting to warn the plaintiff of dangerous conditions and failing to remedy the hazard in a timely manner.

The suit seeks compensation of more than $50,000, plus attorneys’ fees and costs. Larimer is represented in the case by Daniel O’Brien, of Winters Salzetta O’Brien & Richardson, in Chicago.

Cook County Circuit Court Case No. 15-L-4794