In the tragic event that you have lost a loved one due to the negligence or wrongful act of another person, it is important to seek justice and hold those responsible accountable. Seek legal representation from an Orland Park wrongful death lawyer from our personal injury law firm who can help you navigate this difficult time and ensure that your family receives the financial compensation they deserve.
Do I Need a Lawyer in Orland Park to Prove a Wrongful Death?
What Is a Wrongful Death in Illinois?
A wrongful death happens when someone dies due to another person’s negligence or intentional harm. This can include car accidents, unsafe workplaces, trucking accidents, or medical mistakes. Under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/), the deceased’s family can file a claim to recover financial and emotional losses.
Who Can File an Illinois Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Not everyone can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Illinois. By law, only the personal representative of the deceased’s estate—typically a close family member like a surviving spouse, parent, or adult child—has the right to file a wrongful death claim after a fatal accident caused by someone else’s negligence. They file on behalf of all eligible family members affected by the loss. If you are unsure of your eligibility, consult with an experienced Illinois wrongful death attorney.
How Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Prove Wrongful Death?
For a personal injury claim to succeed, we need to prove four key facts:
- Duty of care: the responsible party had a duty to act safely and responsibly.
- Breach of duty: they failed to meet that duty through negligence or harmful actions.
- Causation: their actions directly caused your loved one’s death.
- Damages: the death resulted in measurable losses.
Common Types of Accidents That Cause Wrongful Death in Orland Park
Wrongful death occurs in a variety of situations:
- Car, truck, and motorcycle collisions
- Workplace accidents or unsafe working conditions
- Medical malpractice, such as surgical errors or misdiagnoses
- Slip-and-fall incidents caused by unsafe property conditions
- Defective or dangerous products
How Can an Orland Park Wrongful Death Lawyer Help?
Losing a loved one to fatal injuries is incredibly difficult, and navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. An experienced Orland Park wrongful death lawyer can help by guiding you through the legal system, gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if needed. They will work to secure the maximum compensation for you and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
Who Can Be Held Accountable for a Wrongful Death?
Anyone whose negligence or harmful actions caused the death could be held responsible in personal injury cases. This might include employers, drivers, property owners, doctors, or manufacturers of faulty products.
Who Cannot Be Held Liable for a Wrongful Death in Illinois?
Not all deaths qualify for a wrongful death claim. Illnesses from natural causes or unavoidable accidents without fault usually don’t apply. However, if negligence played a role, you might have a case for compensation.
What Is My Wrongful Death Case Worth?
The value of a wrongful death case depends on many factors, such as the amount of medical bills, lost income, funeral expenses, and the emotional suffering of surviving family members. While no amount of money can replace your loved one, compensation can ease financial burdens and provide some sense of justice.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Wrongful Death Case?
Wrongful death cases can take months to a few years, depending on the case’s complexity, available evidence, willingness to settle, and if it goes to court. While we strive for a quick resolution, our priority is to recover the compensation that you deserve under Illinois law.
Call Us
You don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to advocate for you and your family during this difficult time. Call us now for a free consultation.
(312) 223-1700