Vehicular and Negligent Homicide

An automobile has the potential to be more than just a mode of transportation. A vehicle can become a deadly instrument when operated by someone who is acting carelessly. If you have lost a loved one because of someone else’s negligent driving, you may seek justice through both civil and criminal courts. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Kurasch & Klein can help you understand your rights and options following a vehicular homicide.

Understanding Illinois Vehicular Homicide Law

Illinois law can be confusing when it comes to unintentional deaths. In most cases, when a death results from someone else’s negligent behavior, the offender may be charged with involuntary manslaughter. However, when a death results from negligent behavior involving a motor vehicle, the charge is called reckless homicide or vehicular homicide.

The penalty for vehicular homicide ranges from two to five years in prison. Penalties may be more severe if the negligent homicide is charged in combination with another crime, such as (aggravated) drunk driving (DUI), or takes place in a school zone where children are present.

Pursuing Justice after a Negligent Homicide

Those who survive a vehicular homicide victim can pursue justice in both civil and criminal proceedings. An experienced wrongful death lawyer can help you recover expenses resulting from your loved one’s death, including:

• Medical expenses
• Funeral costs
• Loss of income
• Loss of consortium

Your attorney may also help you fight to recover punitive damages awarded as part of a criminal conviction.

Experienced Attorneys to Fight for You

At Kurasch & Klein, we understand that pursuing justice following a vehicular homicide can be an important part of the healing process. We can help you understand your rights under the law so that your emotional burden is not increased by unfair financial strain. We will fight for justice on your behalf so that you can focus on moving on after the loss of your loved one.

Contact us to schedule a consultation to discuss your negligent homicide/wrongful death case.

Call Kurasch & Klein in Chicago, IL at 312-372-7250 to pursue justice after a vehicular homicide. We do not charge until you get the compensation you deserve.