In Illinois, there is a statute known as the "Wrongful Death Act" which allows for a cause of action for the decedent's beneficiaries to pursue a claim for a death that was caused by a wrongful act or negligence of another. For example, deaths caused by drunk driving, the manufacture of defective or dangerous products, the construction of an unsound structure or building, or failing to diagnose a fatal disease, may trigger wrongful death claims.

The amount of damages recoverable in a wrongful death lawsuit will vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Below are some examples of types of damages that may be recoverable:

• Loss of anticipated future earnings the deceased would have provided
• Lost benefits from the death, e.g. pension or retirement benefits
• Expense associated with the death, e.g., medical bills and funeral costs
• Loss of inheritance from an untimely death
• Pain, suffering or mental anguish suffered by the survivor of the decedent
• Loss of companionship, care or protection
• Punitive damages, intended to punish wrongdoers and prevent them from harming others

If you live in the Chicago area, and a loved one has died as a result of a wrongful act or negligence of another, you may be eligible to receive compensation under the law. Call us at 312-422-9500 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.