After losing a loved one in a car accident, the victim’s family may wish to consider their legal options. Filing a civil claim against the driver and/or other parties deemed at fault could allow the surviving family to pursue compensation for emotional and monetary losses stemming from such an event. One family in Illinois may be looking into such action after a recent fatal crash.
Reports stated that a 19-year-old man was driving a vehicle over the speed limit when he collided with the rear of an SUV. The SUV had been stopped at an intersection, and the collision caused the SUV to hit a car in front of it. That third vehicle was then pushed into oncoming traffic and crashed into another vehicle. The first vehicle continued traveling before hitting a tree.
A passenger in the first vehicle had to be rescued by emergency crews. He was taken to an area hospital but was declared dead. He was 20 years old. The driver of that vehicle was also taken to the hospital, but his injuries were not considered life threatening. None of the other parties involved suffered serious injuries.
Due to the death stemming from this crash, the family of the victim could potentially have cause to seek compensation for their emotional and monetary losses. These losses could come in the form of pain and suffering, funeral expenses and other costs. If they would like to seek compensation, filing a wrongful death claim may be worth considering. Information on how to move forward with such legal action in Illinois may be useful to interested parties.
Source: Chicago Sun-Times, “No bond for driver charged with DUI in fatal NW Side crash“, Luke Wilusz, Jan. 21, 2016