A car accident could leave drivers and passengers suffering from horrible injuries. Tragically, some crash victims might not survive, leaving Illinois families shattered. Often, car accidents result from someone’s negligence, meaning any resultant deaths fall on the shoulders of the negligent party. A wrongful death lawsuit may follow.
Wrongful death and automobile collisions
Deaths might be more commonplace on roads than people think. The U.S. Department of Transportation found that 3,142 people died in distracted driving collisions in 2019. Nothing indicates any dramatic changes that would bring that figure down in the future. Granted, some accidents may be unavoidable, but many accidents derive from someone’s negligent behavior.
Not surprisingly, speeding ranks high on the list of causes of crashes. An otherwise avoidable collision becomes a fatal crash when someone drives too fast. Distracted driving continues to be a problem, and so does the ever-present danger of intoxicated drivers on the road.
Be mindful that the negligent person might not necessarily be another driver. Bicyclists and pedestrians may also be at fault for accidents. Defective vehicles could make manufacturers responsible.
Wrongful death and potential litigation
When someone dies due to another person’s negligence, those who have legal standing may bring a wrongful death lawsuit forward. Any monetary damages awarded to the survivors won’t bring the deceased loved one back, but the financial compensation could cover losses the survivors suffer. Punitive awards might dissuade others from behaving negligently as well.
An insurance settlement could cover losses, including ones involving wrongful death. Suing multiple parties or filing numerous insurance claims may happen when more than one person is at fault. Suing beyond policy limits may be an option for some.