Can an Illinois Fatal Car Accident Be a Wrongful Death Case?

 Posted on March 21, 2024 in Blog Post

When your loved one is involved in a fatal car accident, the emotional trauma and loss of a family member can be overwhelming. Expenses related to your loved one’s passing can begin to add up, and you may be wondering if you can pursue a wrongful death case against the driver suspected to be at fault for the fatal car accident.

In many cases, the family of the victim involved in a fatal car accident may be able to seek compensation. A skilled Illinois wrongful death attorney can help you understand your options and guide you through this process.

The Illinois Wrongful Death Act

After a fatal car accident, the Illinois Wrongful Death Act gives the family of victims options for pursuing compensation and taking the responsible driver to court. This act typically applies in a case where the car accident was caused by a driver who was acting recklessly or with negligence, causing the accident that resulted in fatality to the victim.

Under the Wrongful Death Act, a surviving spouse or next of kin of the victim can file a lawsuit or claim. This legal action must be filed within the statute of limitations of an auto accident wrongful death action, which is typically two years after the date the accident occurred. In certain cases, this statute of limitations may be limited to one year after the date of the accident. An experienced wrongful death lawyer can help you navigate which situation applies to your claim.

Making a Wrongful Death Claim in Illinois

Making a wrongful death claim in Illinois can be complex, as you will need to provide evidence that the negligent or reckless actions of the other driver led to the car accident that claimed your loved one’s life. Obtaining police reports and witness testimony can help with this. You will also need to gather documentation and evidence of all expenses related to your loved one’s passing, including medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of future earnings.

As you start the process of making a wrongful death claim in Illinois, the assistance of a skilled attorney is essential. Your attorney can help you build a case and advocate for your family to receive the maximum compensation possible, in addition to working with insurance companies and protecting your rights in the courtroom.

Contact a Des Plaines, IL Wrongful Death Attorney

Dealing with the aftermath of a fatal car accident is difficult, and the assistance of a seasoned Park Ridge, IL wrongful death lawyer is vital as you consider a wrongful death claim. Attorney Patrick Quinn has extensive legal knowledge in the field of wrongful death cases, and he will fight for your right to receive maximum compensation for damages related to a fatal car accident.

Contact Quinn Law Group, LLC by calling 847-232-7180 for a free consultation.