Losing a loved one is never easy, but when someone else’s negligence is the cause, the pain is even harder to process. In these cases, families have the right to file a wrongful death claim to seek financial compensation for their loss.
If you’re unsure whether you have a case, you’re not alone. Many families in Northbrook wonder if filing a claim is the right step. Understanding what qualifies as wrongful death and what compensation may be available can help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit brought by surviving family members when a person’s death was caused by another party’s negligence or wrongful actions. Unlike criminal charges, which are handled by the state, wrongful death claims focus on securing financial compensation for the family’s loss.
Wrongful death cases often stem from:
- Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents – If a reckless, impaired, or distracted driver caused the crash.
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents – When drivers fail to yield or act negligently.
- Medical malpractice – When a doctor’s misdiagnosis, surgical error, or negligence leads to death.
- Workplace accidents – If unsafe working conditions or employer negligence contributed to a fatal injury.
- Defective products – If a dangerous or faulty product leads to a preventable death.
Not every accidental death qualifies as wrongful death. The key factor is whether someone else’s negligence or misconduct caused the loss.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Under Illinois law, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate has the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of surviving family members. This includes a spouse, children, parents, or other close relatives. If the deceased did not have a will or an appointed representative, the court will assign someone—usually a close family member—to handle the claim. Every case is unique, so it’s important to speak with a wrongful death attorney in Northbrook to understand your legal options.
What Compensation Is Available in a Wrongful Death Case?
While no amount of money can replace a loved one, wrongful death claims help families recover financially and hold the responsible party accountable. Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses – Any medical costs related to the deceased’s final injury or illness.
- Funeral and burial costs – Covering the expenses of laying a loved one to rest.
- Lost financial support – Replacing the income the deceased would have provided.
- Loss of companionship – Compensation for the emotional impact on surviving family members.
- Pain and suffering – Damages for the emotional and psychological toll of the loss.
In some cases, families may also seek punitive damages, which are meant to punish the at-fault party for extreme negligence or misconduct.
Why Filing a Claim Matters
Filing a wrongful death claim isn’t just about financial recovery—it’s also about seeking justice. Holding negligent individuals, companies, or organizations accountable can help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
For families in Northbrook, a successful wrongful death claim can provide much-needed financial relief while also giving them a sense of closure. While the legal process can seem overwhelming, having the right legal team on your side makes a difference.
Talk to a Wrongful Death Attorney in Northbrook
Deciding whether to file a wrongful death claim is never easy. If you’ve lost a loved one due to negligence, let Stein & Shulman guide you through the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation.
