Chicago Fatal Accident Lawyer
Representing Families in Wrongful Death Lawsuits
The unexpected death of a loved one is a shocking event under any circumstances, but it can be particularly devastating when death is caused by negligence or intentional misconduct. Although no amount of money can bring back a deceased family member, a wrongful death lawsuit can go a long way in easing the financial burden of the death and holding the negligent party responsible.
At Robert M. Cohen Associates, we represent clients throughout Illinois who have lost a loved one in the following types of fatal accidents:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Trucking accidents
- Medical negligence
- Construction accidents
- Defective product accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
If you have lost a loved one in an accident involving negligence, contact a Chicago fatal accident lawyer at Robert M. Cohen Associates at (847) 790-4246 to learn more about a possible wrongful death claim.
Definition of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death is defined by Illinois law as the death of a person caused by a wrongful act or negligence. Under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act, surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim against the negligent party to recover money damages. In order to be successful in a wrongful death claim, the plaintiff must provide the following:
- The defendant owed a legal duty to the decedent;
- The defendant breached the his or her legal duty to the decedent; and
- The plaintiff in the wrongful death action sustained economic damages as a result of the defendant’s breach of duty to the decedent.
Financial Recovery in Wrongful Death Lawsuits
A wrongful death lawsuit settlement or verdict may include the following compensatory damages:
- Medical bills incurred prior to death
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of the decedent’s future income
- Loss of the decedent’s benefits (pension, health insurance, etc.)
- Loss of society or loss of spousal companionship (if the decedent was married)
- Pain and suffering of the decedent if an injury preceded the death
n some cases, the plaintiff may also be able to recover punitive damages if the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious. Unlike compensatory damages, punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant and deter future misconduct.
Contact a Wrongful Death Attorney
At Robert M. Cohen Associates, we understand that the death of a loved one in a fatal accident is one of the most shocking and difficult events that a person can experience. A knowledgeable fatal accident lawyer, Robert Cohen is a compassionate and caring individual who puts clients’ needs first. Our firm provides personal attention, honest advice, and proactive communication.
Robert Cohen is an experienced litigator who is prepared to take a case to trial if necessary to obtain maximum compensation for the client. We take all cases on a contingency fee basis, which means that you don’t pay unless you win.
If you lost a loved one in a fatal accident, contact our office at (847) 790-4246 to schedule a free consultation with a Chicago wrongful death attorney.