What to Do When Your Spouse is Killed in a Car Accident

 Posted on October 07, 2025 in Wrongful death

Losing a spouse in a car accident is the kind of sudden tragedy that keeps many of us awake at night. When it happens to you, you may initially be in disbelief. Figuring out what to do next can feel impossible. Even once you begin to accept what happened, grief can make it hard to think about your own needs. 

If this sounds like you, you should talk to a Park Ridge personal injury lawyer with Quinn Law Group, LLC. We have helped many people recover after losing a loved one to a car accident, and we appreciate the gravity of these cases. Attorney Quinn handles each case personally, providing support and guidance through this difficult time. Plus, we offer free consultations so you take no risk by talking to us.

What Should I Do First After Losing My Spouse in a Fatal Accident?

Serious car crashes are scenes of confusion and chaos. If you or other family members are injured, the first thing you need to do is get medical attention right away, even if you already left the crash site. Injuries are not always immediately apparent, and a medical evaluation can provide necessary proof of harm.

If you can, it is also important to gather basic information about the crash site, such as the names and contact information of witnesses, photos of the accident site, and the other driver’s insurance information. These steps help get some of the evidence that is critical in pursuing a wrongful death claim.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

In Illinois, the Wrongful Death Act gives certain family members the right to file a wrongful death claim when a loved one dies in a car accident. Spouses are generally eligible to pursue compensation for their loss, which may include damages for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and loss of companionship or support. Children and other close relatives may also have legal rights.

A personal injury attorney can help you decide if you can file a claim and ensure that all legal deadlines are met. In wrongful death cases, timing is critical because Illinois law sets a statute of limitations for filing. Missing this window can prevent you from seeking compensation.

How Is Liability Determined in a Wrongful Death Crash?

Proving that another party caused your spouse’s death is the most important part of a wrongful death case. Liability may mean that another driver was negligent, drove a defective vehicle, or drove in unsafe road conditions. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction, and expert testimony is often used to establish fault.

An attorney experienced in fatal car accident cases can gather and analyze this evidence. They can also work with accident reconstruction specialists or other experts to show how the crash occurred and who is responsible.

Contact a Park Ridge, IL Wrongful Death Lawyer

If your spouse has been killed in a car accident, it is important to get legal advice as soon as possible. Call a Glenview, IL personal injury attorney at 847-232-7180 to schedule your free consultation. At Quinn Law Group, LLC, we handle each case personally and can help you pursue the compensation you deserve while supporting you through this difficult time.