Losing someone you love because a doctor made a mistake is hard to imagine. You trusted medical professionals to help, but instead, they caused harm. If your loved one died due to medical malpractice, you may feel lost, angry, and uncertain about what to do next.
Our medical malpractice lawyers in Chicago are here to help you find answers. We will fight for justice, making sure those responsible are held accountable. You don’t have to face this difficult journey alone—we are here every step of the way.
How Can Our Experienced Chicago Lawyers Help You With the Legal Process?
The grief from losing someone to medical malpractice can be all-consuming. But on top of this, the legal process may feel like another burden you shouldn’t have to carry. That’s where we come in. Our Chicago Injury Lawyer will manage everything—from filing paperwork to taking your case to court—so you can focus on what matters most: your family and healing.
Handling All Legal Documentation
The paperwork involved in a wrongful death claim can feel endless, especially when you’re dealing with the loss of someone close. You shouldn’t have to worry about deadlines and legal jargon right now. Our attorneys handle all of it for you, ensuring that every document is filed accurately and on time.
Gathering Evidence
In a medical malpractice wrongful death case, gathering strong evidence is crucial. But doing so on your own can be daunting, especially when you’re grieving. Our team is here to relieve that stress. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your loved one’s death, collecting medical records, expert opinions, witness statements, and other vital evidence.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, even in cases involving medical malpractice. They may offer settlements far less than what you’re entitled to. Our lawyers fight to ensure that you get the full compensation you deserve. We use our extensive experience in dealing with insurance companies to negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
What Types of Medical Malpractice Can Lead to Wrongful Death?
Medical malpractice can take many forms, and unfortunately, it can result in wrongful death. Some common examples include:
- Surgical Errors: Mistakes made during surgery, like operating on the wrong part of the body or leaving tools inside.
- Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis: Doctors fail to correctly diagnose a condition or delay treatment, leading to worsening health or death.
- Medication Errors: Incorrect medication doses or prescribing the wrong medication, resulting in fatal reactions.
- Birth Injuries: Medical negligence during childbirth that leads to serious injuries or the death of the newborn or mother.
What Should I Do If I Suspect Medical Malpractice Led to My Loved One’s Death?
Losing a loved one due to medical malpractice is painful and confusing. You may feel overwhelmed by grief, questions, and the uncertainty of what to do next. Our compassionate lawyers are here to help you navigate this difficult time and fight for justice for your loved one.
Immediate Actions After the Loss
Stay calm and make sure you have the necessary support from family and friends. Contact the hospital or doctor involved and request all relevant medical records. Avoid making accusations or assumptions until you have all the facts.
Inform Family and Close Friends
Let your family and close friends know about your suspicions. They can help you stay focused on the next steps and offer emotional support during this trying time.
Gather Medical and Legal Documentation
It’s important to collect all medical records, bills, and documents related to your loved one’s care. These will be vital in determining if malpractice played a role in the death. Keep them organized for future legal steps.
Notify Authorities and Insurance Companies
Contact the necessary authorities, including the medical board or health department, if you believe malpractice occurred. Inform your loved one’s insurance provider about the situation, as they may help guide you through the process.
Consult with a Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Consulting with an experienced medical malpractice lawyer is crucial. A Chicago Injury Lawyer can investigate the situation, review medical records, and guide you through the legal process. It ensures that your loved one’s death is properly addressed, and justice is pursued.
Who is Liable in a Medical Malpractice Death Lawsuit?
In a medical malpractice wrongful death case, several parties might be held liable, depending on the circumstances of the incident. Here’s who may be responsible:
Doctors or Surgeons:
If a doctor made a mistake during surgery or failed to diagnose a condition, they could be held liable for the wrongful death. This is common in cases of misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or medication mistakes.
Hospitals or Medical Facilities:
Sometimes the hospital or medical facility where the malpractice occurred may be responsible. If there were issues with staffing, improper procedures, or unsafe conditions, the hospital could be held accountable.
Nurses or Medical Staff:
In cases where a nurse or other healthcare worker failed to follow protocol or made errors that directly led to a death, they may be liable. This can include administering the wrong medication or failing to monitor vital signs.
Pharmaceutical Companies:
If a wrongful death occurred due to a medication error caused by a faulty drug, the pharmaceutical company responsible for producing the drug might be held liable for the death.
Medical Device Manufacturers:
In cases where a defective medical device caused harm, the manufacturer of the device could be held accountable. This applies to things like faulty implants, pacemakers, or other medical equipment.
Compensation You Can Expect in a Medical Malpractice Wrongful Claim
Losing a loved one due to medical malpractice leaves you with emotional pain and unexpected financial burdens. While no amount of money can replace the loss, compensation can help provide some relief. If you file a wrongful death claim, you may be entitled to the following types of compensation:
| Type of Compensation | Inclusions |
| Funeral and Burial Costs | Funeral home fees, burial plot, casket, memorial services. |
| Medical Expenses | Hospital bills, surgeries, medications, doctor visits. |
| Lost Income | Salary, benefits, and future earnings the deceased would have earned. |
| Pain and Suffering | Grief, anxiety, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment in life. |
| Loss of Companionship | Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional connection. |
The Statute of Limitations for Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death in Illinois
In Illinois, the law allows family members to file a wrongful death claim within two years of their loved one’s death. This rule is outlined in the Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/1). If the claim isn’t filed within this time frame, the family may lose their right to seek justice and compensation.
The process of gathering evidence, identifying the responsible party, and filing the claim takes time. Delaying the filing can make it more difficult to collect critical evidence and strengthen your case. By acting quickly, you help protect your family’s legal rights.
Why Choose Our Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death Lawyers?
We know that choosing the right lawyer during such a difficult time is not easy. You need someone who not only understands the law but also your pain and your desire for justice. Here’s why families trust our Chicago medical malpractice death lawyer:
- Proven Experience: We specialize in medical malpractice wrongful death cases and have a track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients.
- Compassionate Support: We treat every client with the care and respect they deserve, offering more than just legal help—we provide genuine emotional support.
- Fierce Advocacy: We fight relentlessly to ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable and that your family receives fair compensation for your loss.
Book a Consultation to Start the Legal Process
Book a consultation today to start the legal process. Our experienced lawyers are here to help your family get justice for your loved one’s death. Call the Chicago Injury Lawyer now and take the first step toward closure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can file a wrongful death claim?
Spouses, children, or parents of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim. In some cases, other close family members may also have the right to seek justice.
How do I know if my loved one’s death was caused by medical malpractice?
If you suspect medical malpractice, consult with an experienced lawyer. We will review medical records, consult with experts, and help determine if negligence played a role in your loved one’s death.
