How Do I File a Wrongful Death Claim in Illinois?

 Posted on January 17, 2024 in Wrongful Death

When a loved one is a victim of negligence or injuries that lead to wrongful death, family members are left to deal with the trauma, emotions, and stress of losing their loved one. In cases where a person’s death is caused by negligence, medical malpractice, or other reckless actions, family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim to receive compensation for damages and medical bills. An experienced Illinois wrongful death lawyer can help you explore your legal options for compensation.

Negligence Can Lead To Wrongful Death

Wrongful death may occur in many different circumstances, including as a result of car accidents, negligence by hospital or nursing home staff, construction site accidents, slip and fall injuries, dog bites, or other personal injuries.

In general, wrongful death occurs when another individual or entity acts recklessly, negligently, or fails to ensure the safety of others when they have a responsibility to do so. This can lead to injuries, and when these injuries lead to death, wrongful death occurs.

The Illinois Wrongful Death Act further defines wrongful death and gives a statute of limitations for most wrongful death claims of two years. This means that you should work with an attorney to file a wrongful death claim as soon as possible to ensure you stay within this statute of limitations and that your case is pursued.

What to Prove in a Wrongful Death Case

Pursuing a wrongful death case in court can be complicated. You will need to prove that the wrongful death occurred as a result of someone else’s negligence or reckless actions. If you believe you have a wrongful death claim, start gathering all of the evidence of your claim as soon as you can. This evidence will be necessary to determine if your claim is valid, and your lawyer can utilize this evidence as proof in your wrongful death case.

Contact an Arlington Heights, IL Wrongful Death Lawyer

Family members and loved ones of a victim of wrongful death often deal with extreme emotions and stress. Medical bills, expenses, and pain and suffering are all part of the damages that a wrongful death may have. Family members of victims of wrongful death may be able to file a claim as a result of their loved one’s wrongful death, though these cases can be complicated to pursue.

If you are seeking compensation with a wrongful death claim, contact an experienced Cook County, IL wrongful death attorney at Adler Law Offices, LTD. Call 312-236-2700 for a free consultation.