Most Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases in Illinois

Most Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases in Illinois. For more than 50 years, Hassakis & Hassakis has helped survivors of families claim millions of dollars for wrongful death settlements in Southern Illinois. Our firm recognizes how difficult it can be to lose a family member, spouse, or financial dependant due to a negligent act that may or may not be anyone’s fault.

Below are some of the most common causes of wrongful death in Illinois. For information directly from our legal team, contact us online for a free consultation or give us a call at (618)-244-5335.

Vehicle-Related Accidents

There is an average of 46,000 vehicle-related fatalities every year in the United States and 5,000 of those are related to large transport vehicles.

Some of the most common causes of vehicle-related fatalities in Illinois include:

• Distracted Driving: Texting or using a phone while driving increases the risk of fatal accidents. Despite Illinois driving laws banning hand-held devices, distracted driving remains a leading cause of collisions.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Alcohol and drugs impair reaction time and judgment, contributing to numerous fatal accidents on Illinois roads.
• Speeding: Driving over the speed limit or too fast for conditions reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, improper lane changes, and failing to yield often lead to deadly accidents in Illinois.
• Poor Road Conditions and Construction Zones: Potholes, missing guardrails, and poorly designed intersections are common causes of fatal accidents, particularly in rural areas and in construction zones.
• Driver Fatigue: Drowsy driving impairs concentration and reaction time, making it as dangerous as driving under the influence.

All of these factors can lead to a wrongful death claim–it’s our job to determine fault and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

Wrongful Death Cases in the Workplace

Between 130-150 people in Illinois are killed every year while on the job. While the majority of these fatalities are related to motor-vehicle accidents, other common wrongful death cases in the workplace include:

• Harmful Substance Exposure: Exposure to toxic chemicals, asbestos, or hazardous materials can lead to fatal health conditions.
• Slips and Falls: Workplace slip-and-fall accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities, especially in environments like construction sites, warehouses, or retail stores.
• Physical Violence: Workplace violence, including assaults or attacks by animals, can lead to tragic fatalities, particularly in high-risk fields like healthcare or agriculture.
• Machine and Structural Malfunctions: Faulty equipment or poor maintenance can cause accidents that result in fatal injuries, especially in industries involving heavy machinery.

Workers’ compensation claims in Illinois can be complicated when a fatality is involved. Our attorneys are here to help if you’ve lost a loved one on the job and need legal support.

Medical Malpractice and Wrongful Death

Nearly a quarter million people in the U.S. die every year due to medical malpractice. This includes individuals who fall victim to a variety of preventable medical errors, such as:

• Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis
• Medication Errors
• Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs)
• Improper Treatment or Surgery Complications
• Wrong-Site Surgery Claims

Medical malpractice claims in Illinois are often related to wrongful death either after an accident or, in some cases, a long period of time.

Premises Liability and Wrongful Death

Premises liability cases and wrongful death in Illinois occur when hazardous conditions on someone’s property lead to fatal accidents. Property owners are legally obligated to maintain safe environments for visitors, tenants, and customers. When they fail to do so, it can result in wrongful death claims. Common causes of fatal accidents in premises liability cases include:

• Slip and Fall Accidents: Wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained walkways can cause deadly falls.
• Inadequate Security: Insufficient security measures in places like apartment buildings or stores can lead to fatal incidents, such as assaults or robberies.
• Building Code Violations: Failure to adhere to safety codes, such as faulty stairs, electrical hazards, or unsafe balconies, can result in fatal injuries.

Your Illinois Wrongful Death Attorneys

If you have lost a loved one due to a wrongful death, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and help you seek justice. Give us a call at (618)-244-5335 or contact us online for a free consultation to learn more about wrongful death claims in Southern Illinois.