How Does a Wrongful Death Claim Benefit Surviving Loved Ones?

 Posted on August 11, 2020 in Wrongful Death

Losing a spouse, parent, child, or sibling is tragic regardless of the circumstances. However, when a person’s death is caused by the reckless or malicious actions of another party, the loss is even more heartbreaking. If you have lost a loved one in an incident involving drunk driving, medical malpractice, a defective product, nursing home neglect, or another situation involving negligence or wrongdoing, you may wonder what your legal options are. In many cases, a wrongful death claim can help hold the at-fault party accountable for the death while also recovering compensation for the losses incurred by the death.

Understanding Illinois Wrongful Death Laws

In Illinois, a wrongful death is one that is caused by wrongful act, neglect, or default. A wrongful death claim is a civil claim filed by the personal representative of the deceased person. This is often the deceased person’s spouse, parent, or adult child. Wrongful death claims can help families collect compensation for a death which was caused by intentional acts or acts of negligence. Damages are paid to the surviving spouse and next of kin. The statute of limitations for Illinois wrongful death claims is typically two years from the date of the death. However, this limit may be extended in some situations.

Types of Damages Available for a Wrongful Death

There is no amount of money that could ever truly compensation someone for the loss of his or her loved one. However, a wrongful death claim can help a grieving family reduce the financial burden caused by the death. Depending on your particular situation, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Medical bills related to the incident that caused your loved one’s death
• Loss of economic support including the loss of your loved one’s income
• Loss of household support such as the loss of services performed by a stay-at-home parent
• Loss of inheritance
• Loss of consortium or loss of marital relations
• Loss of parental guidance and support
• Loss of a minor child’s companionship
• The surviving family’s grief and mental suffering

Contact a Winnebago County Wrongful Death Lawyer  

At Mannarino & Brasfield, A Division of Schwartz Injury Law, we understand that money can never make up for your loved one’s death. However, compensation available through a wrongful death claim can help you hold the party responsible for the death accountable for the tragedy. It can also provide you and your family with the economic support you need. To learn more, call our office at 815-215-7561. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a skilled Rockford wrongful death attorney from our firm today.

Source:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2059