If you have lost a loved one in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence in Cicero, we can help. The wrongful death attorneys at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers provide legal representation to families of people killed because of someone else’s negligence in Cicero and throughout Illinois. Contact us to speak to a Cicero wrongful death lawyer about your possible wrongful death suit today.
What Is a Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the misconduct or negligence of another party. It’s a legal concept that allows the deceased’s estate or family members to file a lawsuit against those responsible.
This type of claim seeks compensation for the survivors’ loss, including funeral expenses and the loss of income and companionship.
What is NOT Considered Wrongful Death?
Not all unexpected deaths qualify as wrongful deaths legally. For instance, fatalities resulting from natural causes, such as disease or age-related issues, do not fall under this category.
Common Types of Accidents that Cause Wrongful Death in Cicero
In the tragic circumstances of a wrongful death accident, the family of the deceased person may be entitled to seek justice. Types of wrongful death accidents may include:
- Car and motorcycle crashes
- Trucking accidents
- Construction accidents
- Slip and fall incidents
- Medical malpractice
- Nursing home abuse
- Faulty or dangerous products
Who Can Be Held Accountable for a Wrongful Death?
Several parties can be held liable in a Cicero wrongful death case, depending on the circumstances. This includes:
- individual perpetrators,
- employers,
- companies, or
- governmental entities.
For instance, a car manufacturer could be accountable for a defective vehicle part, while a property owner might be responsible for fatal hazards that lead to a slip and fall incident.
Types of Compensation for Wrongful Death Cases
In wrongful death cases, families may receive compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages, and loss of companionship.
Compensation from the Wrongful Death Act
The initial charge in a wrongful death lawsuit is termed wrongful death and is submitted under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/0.01, et al.). The Wrongful Death Act seeks to recover damages for:
- Grief
- Sorrow
- Mental suffering
Survival Act Compensation
In a wrongful death claim, the second count claims damages for survivorship as stipulated in the Survival Act (755 ILCS 5/27-6). The Survival Act can seek damages for:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of a normal life
- Lost wages
- Medical bills
- Funeral expenses
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In Illinois, the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit is primarily granted to the personal representative of the decedent’s estate. This can include family members such as the deceased’s spouse, parent, or children.
If no personal representative was named, a court may appoint one and is typically nominated by an interested party. The claim is filed for the benefit of the surviving family members and the estate, seeking compensation for the tragic loss and associated costs.
What Is My Case Worth?
Determining the value of a wrongful death lawsuit in Cicero is complex. Factors include lost wages, medical and funeral expenses, and family members’ pain and suffering, all requiring careful legal evaluation.
Contact a Cicero Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
Coping with the loss of a loved one is an unimaginable hardship, and pursuing legal action can be overwhelming.
With a proven track record in wrongful death lawsuits, The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers stands ready to advocate for your rights and seek compensation you and your family deserve.
Free Consultation
Our wrongful death lawyers have experienced helping grieving family file wrongful death claims. Contact us for a free consultation today with a Cicero wrongful death attorney to determine if you have a valid wrongful death claim.