A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil action brought by surviving family members against the person, corporation, or entity responsible for causing a loved one’s death through negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct.
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Unlike criminal cases, which punish wrongdoers through fines or prison, wrongful death lawsuits focus on compensation for survivors and accountability for negligence.
In Illinois, wrongful death claims can cover medical bills, funeral expenses, loss of income, loss of companionship, and even the emotional suffering of survivors. Filing a claim is not about “putting a price” on someone’s life. It’s about holding negligent parties financially responsible for the harm they caused.
Losing someone you love due to another party’s negligence is more than a tragedy. It’s a legal wrong that demands accountability. Call the wrongful death lawyers at Ankin Law in Chicago at 312-600-0000 to discuss your legal options. Consults are free.
Why Chicago Families File Wrongful Death Claims
Families in Chicago pursue wrongful death claims because they need two things: accountability and financial security. When a loved one’s life is cut short by negligence, survivors are left with crushing medical bills, funeral costs, and the sudden loss of income and companionship. Filing a claim is often the only way to protect their future and demand justice.
Whether it’s a fatal car accident on I-90, medical malpractice in a hospital, or unsafe working conditions on a construction site, wrongful deaths occur across Chicago and Cook County every day. Each case leaves behind a family that deserves answers—and the law provides a path to get them.
What Is the Purpose of Filing a Wrongful Deal Claim?
Illinois law recognizes the right of surviving spouses, children, and sometimes parents to pursue financial compensation when a wrongful act leads to death. These lawsuits serve three purposes:
- Accountability: Making sure negligent corporations, hospitals, and individuals face real consequences.
- Compensation: Providing financial relief for families suddenly left without their loved one’s support.
- Deterrence: Sending a clear message that reckless behavior has consequences.
What a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Covers in Illinois
A wrongful death lawsuit in Illinois covers both financial and emotional losses. Families can recover medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, loss of companionship, and damages for emotional suffering.
The law doesn’t put a “price” on life—it ensures negligent individuals, corporations, or institutions take financial responsibility for the harm they caused.
The Scope of Wrongful Death in Illinois
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, over 1,300 accidental deaths occurred in Illinois in 2022—many of which involved negligence. Car crashes, workplace injuries, and medical mistakes make up a significant portion of these fatalities. These numbers prove one thing: wrongful death is not a rare or isolated event. It is a daily reality for Chicago families.
How Wrongful Death Lawsuits Work
Wrongful death lawsuits in Illinois follow a structured process.
- Eligibility: Illinois law allows the personal representative of the deceased’s estate to file the lawsuit on behalf of the surviving family members.
- Investigation: Attorneys gather medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony to build the strongest possible case.
- Filing the Claim: The lawsuit is filed in civil court, demanding damages from the responsible party.
- Negotiation or Trial: Many wrongful death cases settle before trial, but if defendants refuse fair compensation, a jury will decide the outcome.
Families should not attempt to go through the wrongful death claims process alone. Insurance companies and corporate defense lawyers are trained to cause delays and minimize payouts. Only an experienced Chicago wrongful death attorney can level the playing field.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Chicago
Wrongful death lawsuits arise when negligence or misconduct leads to preventable loss of life. In Chicago, the most frequent causes include:
- Fatal car and truck accidents caused by negligent or drunk drivers
- Medical malpractice, including surgical errors or misdiagnoses
- Nursing home neglect or abuse
- Workplace and construction site accidents
- Defective products that cause fatal injuries
- Violent criminal acts
Each of these situations leaves behind grieving families who deserve justice.
Why Legal Action Matters
Legal action matters because wrongful death lawsuits force accountability. They compel corporations, hospitals, and individuals to face the consequences of cutting corners, ignoring safety, or engaging in reckless behavior.
For Chicago families, a wrongful death case is more than compensation—it is a public demand for justice that protects both the victims’ families and the community at large.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Illinois?
In most cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of death. Certain exceptions may apply, so contacting an attorney immediately is critical.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Chicago?
In Illinois, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate files the claim, but damages are awarded to surviving family members such as a spouse, children, or parents.
What damages can be recovered in a wrongful death lawsuit?
Compensation may include funeral expenses, lost income, medical bills, emotional suffering, and loss of companionship or parental guidance.
Take Action Today
If you’re asking yourself, “What is a wrongful death lawsuit?” after the loss of a loved one, call Ankin Law to learn more about your legal right to demand accountability. Do not allow insurance companies or negligent corporations to walk away without consequences.
Contact Ankin Law in Chicago, IL at 312-600-0000. Consults are free.
