Chicago Fatal Vehicle Accident Lawyer
Losing a loved one in a vehicle collision caused by someone else is devastating. At Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC, our compassionate team is ready to help. When you need a Chicago car accident lawyer, we can conduct a complete investigation into the incident and handle every aspect of filing the claim on your behalf. You need to focus on being with your family and moving forward. Let us focus on your wrongful death vehicle accident claim.
Common Causes of Fatal Vehicle Collisions in Chicago
Fatal vehicle collisions in Chicago can occur due to various reasons. Understanding these common causes can help in preventing future accidents and building a strong case if negligence is involved. According to data from the Illinois Department of Transportation, the leading causes of fatal accidents include:
- Speeding. Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react and increases the severity of collisions.
- Distracted driving. Activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car technologies divert attention from the road.
- Driving under the influence. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction times, significantly increasing the risk of fatal accidents.
- Reckless driving. Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, and ignoring traffic signals can lead to deadly crashes.
- Weather conditions. Adverse weather, such as rain, snow, and fog, can make roads treacherous and visibility poor.
- Vehicle defects. Mechanical failures or defective car parts can cause loss of control and fatal accidents.
What Type of Claim Do You Need to File?
When a fatal vehicle accident occurs, the surviving family members and the estate of the deceased may need to file a wrongful death claim. This type of claim seeks to hold the negligent party accountable and provide financial compensation to the victims’ family. The claim can cover various aspects, including funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
To file a wrongful death claim, you must establish that the other party’s negligence directly caused the fatal accident. This involves gathering evidence such as police accident reports, eyewitness statements, and expert testimony.
Types of Compensation That May Be Available
Compensation in a wrongful death claim can be divided into economic and non-economic damages, also known as special and general damages.
Economic (Special) Damages
- Medical expenses. Covers costs incurred before death due to the accident.
- Funeral and burial costs. Expenses related to the burial, funeral, or cremation.
- Loss of income. Compensation for the future income the deceased would have provided.
- Loss of benefits. Covers benefits like health insurance or pension that the deceased would have provided.
Non-Economic (General) Damages
- Pain and suffering. Compensation for the emotional and psychological affect of losing a loved one.
- Loss of consortium. Compensation to a spouse for the loss of companionship, affection, and support.
- Loss of parental guidance. Covers the impact on children who have lost a parent, including the loss of guidance and nurturing.
An experienced attorney will help quantify these damages and present a case to help you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Time Limit for Filing a Claim After a Fatal Car Collision in Chicago
In Illinois, the legal limitation for filing a wrongful death claim is generally two years from the date of the deceased’s death. Failing to file within this specified timeframe can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
However, certain circumstances can affect this timeframe. For instance, if the claim involves a government agency or entity, the filing deadline may be shorter. Additionally, if the discovery of the cause of death occurs later, the statute of limitations may be extended.
Contact a Fatal Vehicle Accident Lawyer Today
Navigating the aftermath of a fatal vehicle accident can be overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. At Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC, our dedicated team is here to help you through every step of the process. We will work hard to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (312) 321-8414 for a free consultation and let us help you on your road to recovery.