Fatal Car Accidents in Illinois: Legal Options for Surviving Family Members

 Posted on March 18,2022 in Wrongful Death

Over 900 individuals lost their lives in fatal car accidents in Illinois in the year 2019 alone. When a loved one dies in a tragic accident, the surviving family is often left with more questions than answers. Many families wonder if there is anything they can do to take legal action against the party who caused the fatal accident. Read on to learn about civil claims under the Illinois wrongful death statute and survivor statute.

Seeking Justice for a Loved One’s Death

Drunk driving, speeding, texting and driving, and countless other issues can lead to a fatal car crash. Sometimes, the at-fault party is not an individual but instead an auto parts manufacturing company or other entity. When someone is killed by another party’s negligent, reckless, or illegal actions, the surviving family may be able to seek justice through the civil court system through a survivor or wrongful death action.

Financial Compensation for Surviving Loved Ones

Losing a loved one in a preventable car crash, truck accident, motorcycle accident, or another type of accident causes not only terrible grief and suffering, but also significant financial strain. The surviving family may be left to deal with overwhelming medical debts and funeral costs. Individuals who lost a spouse are left to pay bills and raise children without their partner’s financial support or parental love and guidance. The types of damages available to surviving loved ones vary. Claims brought under the Illinois Survival Statute may allow the deceased person’s estate to recover compensation for:

• Medical costs
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Vehicle damage and other property damage

Claims brought under the Illinois Wrongful Death Statute may allow families to recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of the victim’s companionship, care, and support
• Loss of the victim’s financial support
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of parental guidance to the victim’s children

Contact a Lake County Fatal Auto Accident Lawyer

At Salvi & Maher, L.L.C., we know that a fatal accident can turn your entire life upside down. We can help you understand all of your legal options for holding the at-fault party accountable for your loss and pursuing financial compensation for your damages. Our skilled and compassionate Waukegan wrongful death attorneys know how to build a claim for damages and project our clients’ rights throughout the recovery process. Call our office today for a free, confidential initial case assessment at 847-662-3303.

Sources:

https://idot.illinois.gov/Assets/uploads/files/Transportation-System/Resources/Safety/Crash-Reports/crash-facts/2019%20Crash%20Facts.pdf

https://ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/075500050K27-6.htm