24/7 Free consultation

Aviation Accident Death Attorney in Chicago

No fees until we win. We’ll come to you, listen to your story, and fight relentlessly—just like we have for hundreds of satisfied clients.

Paul M. Marriett
Paul M. Marriett

Legally Reviewed by:

Paul M. Marriett

Losing a loved one is always painful. But when that loss comes as the result of an aviation accident, the grief can feel overwhelming. We understand the heartache and confusion you’re going through. 

You never expected a tragedy like this to hit your family, and no amount of words can undo the pain of such a devastating loss. But there is something we can do. Our injury lawyers can help you seek justice, and we can help you fight for justice!

Why Choose Our Chicago Injury Lawyer?

As the leading aviation accident wrongful death lawyers in Chicago, we specialize in fighting for the rights of those who have lost loved ones due to fatal aviation accidents. Our Chicago Injury Lawyer is here to navigate the legal complexities.

With years of experience handling personal injury and wrongful death cases, our lawyers understand the specifics of aviation accident claims. We approach every case with care, compassion, and unwavering determination. We ensure responsible parties are held guilty of their actions.

The Heartache of Losing a Loved One in an Aviation Accident

When an aviation accident claims the life of someone close to you, it often leaves a deep emotional scar. You might be left with questions like:

  • How did this happen?
  • Could this have been prevented?
  • Who is responsible for the loss?
  • What should I do now?

These are valid concerns. While we can’t bring back your loved one, we can help you get the answers and justice you deserve. Aviation accidents are often caused by negligence, mechanical failure, human error, or poor maintenance. Determining the cause of the accident requires thorough investigation and expertise, which we provide.

What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death lawsuit is a legal claim made when someone’s death is caused by another party’s negligent actions. In the case of aviation accidents, this could involve airline companies, aircraft manufacturers, pilots, maintenance crews, or even air traffic controllers. The purpose of a wrongful death lawsuit is to seek compensation for the family members left behind for their emotional pain, loss of companionship, and financial hardship.

The Law of Aviation Accident Wrongful Death in Illinois

Illinois law provides a legal pathway for families who have lost a loved one in an aviation accident. Under Illinois Compiled Statutes, 740 ILCS 180, the law governs wrongful death claims. In aviation cases, this law allows victims’ families to pursue compensation for their devastating loss. Here’s how it works:

  1. Who Can File a Claim?
    The law permits a personal representative of the deceased’s estate to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This can be a family member or an appointed administrator of the estate.
  2. What Can You Recover?
    The compensation can cover medical bills incurred before the deceased’s passing, funeral expenses, and any pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death. In addition, the family members may recover compensation for losing love, companionship, and emotional distress.
  3. The Statute of Limitations
    Time is of the essence in wrongful death lawsuits. In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is typically two years from the date of death. Failing to file within this period could result in losing the right to seek compensation. That’s why it’s essential to act quickly.
The Law of Aviation Accident Wrongful Death in Illinois

Common Causes of Aviation Accidents

Aviation accidents don’t happen by chance. They are often the result of one or more contributing factors. Some of the most common causes of aviation accidents include:

  1. Pilot Error
    Pilots are responsible for the safety of their passengers and aircraft. Poor judgment, failure to adhere to proper flight protocols, or negligence can result in tragic accidents.
  2. Mechanical Failure
    Aircraft require precise maintenance and regular checks to ensure they’re operating safely. A mechanical failure, such as engine malfunction or faulty parts, can have disastrous consequences.
  3. Weather Conditions
    Pilots must be trained to handle adverse weather conditions like turbulence, thunderstorms, and low visibility. A failure to assess or react appropriately to weather can lead to flight accidents.
  4. Air Traffic Control Errors
    Air traffic controllers are tasked with guiding aircraft safely. An error in judgment, miscommunication, or failure to clear airspace can cause a collision or other tragic event.
  5. Aircraft Manufacturer Defects
    Sometimes, the problem lies with the aircraft itself. If a manufacturer is found to have sold a defective plane, they can be held accountable in a wrongful death lawsuit.

How We Benefit You as a Survivor of a Fatal Aviation Accident

As someone who has lost a loved one, you have the right to seek justice. Illinois law provides a legal framework for holding those responsible for aviation accidents accountable. 

Here’s what we do for you:

  • Investigate the Incident
    Our experienced wrongful accident lawyers in Chicago work with aviation experts and investigators to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and establish liability.
  • Evaluate Your Losses
    We carefully assess the financial and emotional impact the death of your loved one has had on you and your family.
  • Fight for Your Compensation
    We pursue flight accident compensation that covers medical costs, funeral expenses, emotional pain, loss of income, and other damages you may have suffered.
  • Ensure a Fair Settlement
    We negotiate with insurance companies and responsible parties to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. If necessary, we are fully prepared to take the case to court.
How We Benefit You as a Survivor of a Fatal Aviation Accident

Don’t Wait, Act Now!

Losing someone in an aviation accident is an unthinkable tragedy. However, you can ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable through legal action. You deserve justice. Let us help you seek the compensation and closure you need to move forward.

Our Chicago Injury Lawyer is committed to fighting for the families of those who have lost loved ones. Act now—time is limited, and every moment counts. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of an aviation accident lawyer in a wrongful death case?

An aviation accident lawyer investigates the cause of the crash, gathers evidence, negotiates with insurance companies, and ensures that the responsible parties are held liable while guiding you through the legal process.

Can I still file a wrongful death lawsuit if the plane crash was caused by weather?

Yes, if the crash was caused by weather-related factors that could have been mitigated by proper precautions or maintenance, a wrongful death lawsuit could still be filed against the responsible parties.

What happens if the aviation accident involves a foreign airline or international laws?

If the accident involves an international airline or occurred abroad, the case may be subject to international aviation laws, treaties, or conventions, such as the Montreal Convention. Which governs the liability of airlines in global air travel.

Free Consultation

Visit Our Office

Chicago Personal Injury Attorney Office

Case Results

$14,000,000

TBI brain injury and POTS from electrocution.

$5,000,000

Injury settlement for patient dropped from medical transport bus with traumatic brain injury.

$3,000,000

Wrongful death settlement for family of driver killed when a semi truck ran a red light.

$500,000

For a semi truck crash victim with spine and brain injury

$295,000

For a dog bite victim suffering from complex regional pain syndrome.

Scroll to Top
The logo of Chicago Injury Lawyers: Paul M. Marriett