My Loved One Died in a Motorcycle Crash. What Are My Legal Options?

 Posted on March 08, 2021 in Personal Injury

For many, riding a motorcycle is one of the best things in life. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are significantly more likely to die during a collision than occupants of cars and trucks. If your loved one died in a fatal motorcycle crash, you may be shocked and unsure of what to do next. In addition to your grief, you may be facing considerable financial hardship because of your loss. One legal option that you may have after losing a loved one in a motorcycle accident is a wrongful death lawsuit. Through a wrongful death action, you may be able to recover financial compensation for the losses incurred by your loved one’s death.

A Wrongful Death is a Death Caused by Negligence or Wrongdoing

According to Illinois law, a wrongful death action is possible when a death is caused by “negligence,” meaning carelessness or recklessness, or wrongdoing. You may be able to bring a wrongful death case if your loved one’s motorcycle accident was caused by:

• Negligent driving such as distracted driving, running a red light, or speeding
• Drunk driving or drugged driving
• Negligent road design or substandard road maintenance
• Defective motorcycle parts
• Other conduct that is negligent or unlawful

Potential Benefits of a Wrongful Death Claim After a Motorcycle Collision

A wrongful death action may allow you to get justice for your loved one and hold the responsible party accountable. You may also be able to recover financial compensation. There is no amount of money that could make up for someone’s death. However, a wrongful death claim may ease the financial burden you are facing.  

Damages in a wrongful death claim include pecuniary losses such as the loss of your loved one’s financial support and the loss of services like childcare and domestic duties. You may also obtain compensation for your loved one’s funeral and burial costs and medical bills that accrued between his or her accident and death. You could also receive compensation for non-financial damages including the loss of the spousal relationship, children’s lost parental support and guidance, and your grief and suffering.

Contact an Orland Park Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If your loved one passed away in a motorcycle crash, a wrongful death claim may help you recover compensation and hold the negligent party accountable. Per the Illinois statute of limitations, you must bring a wrongful death lawsuit within two years of your loved one’s death, so it is important to act soon. An experienced Illinois wrongful death attorney from Schwartz Injury Law can help you bring a claim on your loved one’s behalf. Call us at 708-888-2160 today for a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/074001800K2.htm