Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences anyone can endure. When that loss is caused by a preventable burn injury wrongful death in Chicago, the grief can feel even more overwhelming. Whether the injury occurred due to a workplace accident, a defective product, or another act of negligence, your family deserves justice.
At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we understand the deep emotional pain of such a loss, and we’ll assist you throughout the entire legal process. In this incredibly difficult time, our Chicago wrongful death lawyers are ready to fight for compensation.
Why Choose Our Chicago Lawyer for Your Burn Injury Wrongful Death Case?
When tragedy strikes, you need more than just a lawyer — you need a compassionate team. Here’s why Chicago Injury Lawyer is the right choice for your wrongful death case:
Proven Expertise in Burn Injury Wrongful Death Cases
Our legal team is well-versed in Illinois’ complex wrongful death and burn injury laws. We have years of experience advocating for families affected by burn injuries, ensuring we maximize compensation and secure justice.
Compassionate and Supportive Legal Guidance
We understand that the emotional toll of losing a loved one is immeasurable. We’ll support you every step of the way — not just as your lawyers but as partners in your journey toward justice.
Aggressive Representation to Hold Wrongdoers Accountable
Burn injury accidents caused by negligence can have devastating consequences. Our team is committed to fighting for justice and securing the compensation your family needs to rebuild your life.
Maximized Compensation for Your Losses
From funeral costs to emotional suffering, we ensure that every aspect of your loss is considered. We will fight to recover medical bills, lost wages, and more so you’re not left with a financial burden on top of your grief.
Act Now! Your Chicago wrongful death case is ticking, and the sooner we hear from you, the sooner we can fight for justice. Let us put our expertise to work for your family’s future.
What Causes a Burn Injury Wrongful Death?
Burn injuries that lead to wrongful death can occur in various circumstances. Some common causes of Chicago burn injury wrongful deaths include:
- Residential fires caused by faulty wiring, gas leaks, or carelessness
- Workplace accidents in industries like construction, manufacturing, or firefighting
- Defective products such as malfunctioning appliances or faulty electronics
- Chemical burns from exposure to hazardous substances in industrial environments
- Motor vehicle accidents where fires or explosions occur after collisions
If your loved one’s death was caused by negligence or intentional wrongdoing, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Your Legal Rights in Illinois Burn Injury Wrongful Death Cases
While the Wrongful Death Act compensates surviving family members, the Survival Act permits estate representatives to recover damages for pain, suffering, and medical expenses that occurred before death. Here’s a breakdown of both acts:
- Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/):
- Purpose: Allows the surviving family members (spouse, children, parents) to seek compensation for the death of their loved one caused by the wrongful act or negligence of another party.
- Compensation: Covers loss of financial support, funeral and burial expenses, and emotional pain and suffering.
- Illinois Survival Act (755 ILCS 5/27-6):
- Purpose: Allows the deceased’s estate to recover for damages the deceased sustained before their death due to an accident.
- Compensation: Covers pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages incurred by the decedent before passing.
Depending on the circumstances, both actions may be pursued simultaneously, protecting both the family and the decedent’s rights.
Eligible parties to file a wrongful death lawsuit include:
- The spouse of the deceased
- Children of the deceased, whether minor or adult
- Parents of a minor child who passed away
However, the time to file a wrongful death lawsuit is limited by the statute of limitations, which in Illinois is typically two years from the date of death. It’s essential to act quickly to protect your legal rights and secure the compensation your family deserves.
Steps to Take After a Burn Injury Wrongful Death in Chicago
Dealing with the grief and loss of a loved one is never easy, but there are important steps to take that will help you seek justice. Here’s what you should do:
- Contact an Experienced Wrongful Death Lawyer
The first step after losing a loved one to a burn injury wrongful death is to contact a skilled Chicago wrongful death lawyer. We offer free consultations to help you understand your legal rights and options.
- Preserve Evidence
Evidence is crucial in wrongful death cases. Make sure to preserve all relevant documents, including medical records, fire reports, accident reports, and witness statements.
- Document Your Losses
Keep a detailed record of the financial and emotional toll the death has had on you and your family. This includes medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and the emotional impact the loss has caused. These records will help us build a strong case on your behalf.
- File Your Lawsuit Promptly
The law limits the amount of time you have to file a wrongful death lawsuit. In Illinois, the statute of limitations is typically 2 years from the date of death. Be sure to act quickly to avoid losing your right to seek compensation.
What Compensation Can You Expect from a Burn Injury Wrongful Death Case in Chicago?
The compensation you may receive in a burn injury wrongful death lawsuit can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. However, generally speaking, the following damages are often awarded:
- Medical Costs: Any medical expenses incurred before death, such as emergency treatment, hospitalization, and surgeries.
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Reimbursement for funeral and other related expenses.
- Loss of Income and Support: If the deceased contributed financially to the family, compensation can help cover lost wages and support.
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional distress and suffering caused by the loss of your loved one.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or malice, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and prevent similar conduct in the future.
Each case is unique, and the amount of compensation will depend on a variety of factors. Our Chicago wrongful death attorney will help assess your case and work tirelessly to get the best possible result for your family.
Book a Free Consultation Today
The loss of a loved one is never easy, but when someone else’s negligence or recklessness causes that death, it can leave you feeling helpless and frustrated. You don’t have to go through this difficult time alone. Let our burn injury wrongful death lawyers in Chicago fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves.
At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we can help you every step of the way. Call us now for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you get the justice your loved one deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my loved one passed away due to a burn injury but suffered before death? Can I file another claim?
Yes, under the Illinois Survival Act, the deceased’s estate can file a separate claim for damages related to the decedent’s pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages before death. This can be pursued alongside the wrongful death claim.
Do I need to provide the police report to file a wrongful death lawsuit?
A police report can be a valuable piece of evidence in a burn injury wrongful death case, but it is not always required to file a lawsuit. Our team will gather all relevant evidence, including fire reports, medical records, and witness testimonies, to build a strong case for your family.
How is compensation determined in a wrongful death case?
Compensation in a burn injury wrongful death case is determined based on factors such as:
The severity of the injury and pain before death
The deceased’s earning capacity and contributions to the family
Funeral and medical expenses
The emotional impact on the surviving family members
How is liability determined in a burn injury wrongful death case?
Liability in a burn injury wrongful death case is determined by proving that another party’s negligence or intentional actions directly caused the fatal burn injuries. This could include faulty products, unsafe working conditions, improper fire safety measures, or reckless driving.
