Edwardsville, IL Fatal Car Accident Lawyer | Wrongful Death Attorneys | Halvosen Klote

Edwardsville, IL

Edwardsville, IL Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

Fatal car accident lawyer in Edwardsville, IL. Experiencing the loss of a loved one in a car accident is a heart-wrenching experience that no one should ever have to go through. The sorrow and turmoil that follow can be overwhelming, leaving families in a state of shock. While nothing can restore a lost life, seeking legal guidance from a specialized fatal car accident lawyer in Edwardsville, IL can help families navigate the complex legal process and discover some semblance of closure. Edwardsville, IL personal injury law firm Halvorsen Klote stands as a beacon of support for those confronting this heartbreaking tragedy.

Halvorsen Klote is a dedicated and caring Edwardsville, IL law firm with a long-standing reputation for preeminence. With proficiency in personal injury law and a specific concentration on fatal car accident cases, we serve clients across Missouri and Illinois. Our team of knowledgeable Edwardsville, IL fatal car accident lawyers is dedicated to helping families navigate the legal challenges that emerge after a tragic accident, providing direction, support and advocacy every step of the way. With Halvorsen Klote, you have a partner who grasps the weight of your loss and is determined to strive for your rights and the righteousness your loved one is entitled to. We support the injured and their families in both Missouri and Illinois.

To obtain justice and optimal compensation, contact Halvorsen Klote's Edwardsville, IL fatal car crash lawyers now at 866-382-4167 or contact us through our website.

Fatal Car Accident Lawyer in Edwardsville, IL | Auto Accident Law Firm Near Edwardsville

How Common Are Fatal Car Accidents in Missouri and Illinois?

Annually, countless numbers of lives are lost in fatal car accidents across the United States. Based on recent data, in 2022 Missouri reported 878 fatal crashes with 964 fatalities, while Illinois recorded an even higher number of fatal accidents at 1,217.

Such accidents not only bring about unfathomable pain to families and communities, but also lead to significant economic hardships. Halvorsen Klote's Edwardsville, IL fatal car accident lawyers can help ease that financial hardship and secure justice for your family.

Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents in Edwardsville, IL

Fatal car accidents in Edwardsville, IL can occur for a variety of reasons, with some causes being more frequent than others. Typical causes include:

  • Distracted driving:
    • Sending texts or talking on a cell phone
    • Manipulating navigation systems or tweaking the radio
    • Eating or drinking
  • Driving under the influence:
  • Reckless or aggressive Driving:
    • Tailgating
    • Neglecting traffic signals
    • Excessive lane changing
    • Driving too fast
  • Weather-related conditions:
    • Rain
    • Snow
    • Fog
  • Other factors:
    • Malfunctioning vehicle components
    • Poor road maintenance

Comprehending these common causes emphasizes the importance of hiring a fatal car accident lawyer in Edwardsville, IL when tragedy strikes. Their role in probing and pinpointing the responsible parties can give clarity and justice for the victims' families, guiding them traverse the complicated legal landscape that often follows a fatal accident.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim for a Fatal Car Accident in Edwardsville, IL?

Each state has their own laws regarding who can file a wrongful death lawsuit. So who is eligible to file is mainly based on whether your loved one's fatal car accident happened in Missouri or Illinois:

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Missouri?

Missouri Revised Statute §537.080 stipulates three different groups of beneficiaries (people who can bring a suit), in order of priority:

    • Surviving spouse
    • Children of the deceased, including natural or adopted, legitimate or illegitimate
    • Lineal descendants of the deceased's children (e.g., grandchildren)
    • The father or mother of the deceased
    • A sibling of the deceased
    • Descendants of the siblings (nieces and nephews)
    • A "plaintiff ad litem," appointed by the court, who must be someone entitled to an inheritance from the deceased

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Illinois?

Illinois is different from most states because, rather than state law giving priority to relatives, the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/) dictates that the wrongful death claim must be filed by the "personal representative" of the estate. In the order of priority, that personal representative is:

  • The individual named in the deceased's will as the personal representative, as long as they are 18 or over and aren't disqualified
  • If there is no will or the person named as personal representative is disqualified, then the order of priority is:
    • The surviving spouse
    • Legatees, or people named in the will, by priority of who is entitled to the largest inheritance
    • Closest relatives
    • A public administrator

What Compensation Can I Receive for My Loved One's Fatal Car Accident in Edwardsville, IL?

In the heartbreaking aftermath of a fatal car accident in Edwardsville, IL, no sum can make up for the loss of a loved one. However, compensation pursued through a wrongful death claim can alleviate some of the financial hardships and provide a feeling of closure. You may be eligible for various forms of compensation. With the help of your Edwardsville, IL fatal car accident lawyer, you can seek a financial recovery for:

  • Medical expenses — Any medical costs accrued before your family member's death, such as emergency care, surgeries or other treatments.
  • Funeral and burial costs — Expenses related to funeral services, burial or cremation and other associated costs.
  • Loss of income and benefits — Compensation for the loss of income and benefits that your family member provided to the family.
  • Loss of companionship and loss of consortium Recognition of the emotional loss and the impact on family relationships, including the loss of affection, guidance and companionship.
  • Pain and suffering In some cases, compensation for the physical pain and emotional anguish undergone by the deceased before passing, as well as the emotional toll on family members.
  • Punitive damages — In scenarios where the responsible party's actions were notably dangerous or intentional, additional damages may be awarded as a form of penalty and deterrence.

The process of estimating and securing this compensation is intricate and requires a complete understanding of the law, insurance policies and the specific facts of the accident. A fatal car accident lawyer in Edwardsville, IL can offer the necessary expertise to assess potential compensation, discuss terms with insurance companies and responsible parties and advocate for the family's rights in court if necessary. Halvorsen Klote's fatal car accident lawyers are adept at working diligently to increase compensation for our clients, providing both legal skill and empathetic support during this tough time.

How Halvorsen Klote Works to Maximize Compensation in Edwardsville, IL Fatal Car Accident Cases

Seeking a full financial recovery after a fatal car accident requires both legal knowledge and an understanding of the deeply personal nature of the case. Halvorsen Klote, serving clients in Edwardsville, IL and both Missouri and Illinois, approaches this process with a blend of expertise, commitment and compassion. Here's how our fatal car accident lawyer team endeavors to optimize compensation for our clients:

  • Thorough investigation — We initiate a comprehensive investigation into the accident, collecting all available evidence, speaking with experts and identifying all potential sources of liability.
  • Comprehending client needs — By allocating the time to understand the unique needs, goals and circumstances of each family we represent, we adapt our approach to align with your family's interests.
  • Proficient negotiation — With experience in negotiating with insurance companies and other parties, our Edwardsville, IL fatal car accident lawyers aim for fair settlements that reflect the true value of the claim.
  • Prepared for trial — While many cases are concluded through negotiation, we are always ready to take a case to trial if required, vigorously advocating for our clients' rights in court.
  • Transparent communication — Regular and transparent communication guarantees that you remain kept up-to-date at every stage of the legal process, fostering confidence and collaboration.
  • No upfront costs — Your Edwardsville, IL fatal car accident lawyer from Halvorsen Klote collects attorneys' fees on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients don't need to pay unless compensation is secured. This aligns our interests with those of the client and provides accessibility to the highest quality of legal representation irrespective of your economic situation.

Halvorsen Klote's strategy to maximizing compensation reflects our devotion to both professional excellence and compassionate representation. By handing over your case to such a firm, your family can focus on healing and remembrance, certain that their legal matters are being handled with the utmost care, skill, and determination. In a time overflowing with anxiety and grief, having a dedicated legal ally can make a significant difference in the pursuit of justice and financial support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Edwardsville, IL Fatal Car Accident Lawyers

Navigating the legal landscape post a fatal car accident can be overwhelming, and many questions surface during this difficult time. Below are some common personal injury questions regarding engaging a fatal car accident lawyer in Edwardsville, IL and the wrongful death process:

  • What attributes should I look for in a fatal car accident lawyer?
    • Proficiency in handling fatal car accident cases
    • Understanding of car accident and wrongful death laws
    • Compassionate approach that respects the emotional nature of the situation
    • Clear fee structure and communication
  • How soon should I contact a lawyer after the accident?

    As soon as possible to ensure evidence is kept intact and legal timelines are met.

  • What sort of compensation can I expect?

    Compensation differs based on factors such as liability, insurance coverage, emotional loss, etc. A detailed consultation with a fatal car accident lawyer in Edwardsville, IL like Halvorsen Klote can provide detailed insight.

  • Will the case go to trial?

    A large number of cases are finalized through negotiation, but Halvorsen Klote's Edwardsville, IL fatal car accident lawyers are ready to go to trial if required to achieve fair compensation.

  • In what timeframe will the legal process take?

    Timelines change widely and depend on the details of the case, the willingness of parties to settle, court schedules and other factors.

  • How can I afford a fatal car accident lawyer in Edwardsville, IL?

    Firms like Halvorsen Klote often function on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless compensation is obtained.

Other cases we take on in Edwardsville, IL include:

Fatal Car Accident Lawyer in Edwardsville, IL | Auto Accident Law Firm Near Edwardsville

Speak to a Fatal Car Accident Lawyer in Edwardsville, IL Today

The mourning process following a fatal car accident in Edwardsville, IL is indescribably difficult, and the legal complexities can be overwhelming. During such a time, knowledgeable and empathetic legal support can make a marked difference. If you or a loved one are in requirement of assistance, Halvorsen Klote is committed to providing compassionate representation.

Our team of expert Edwardsville, IL fatal car accident lawyers is ready to support you and your family through every stage of the legal process, with the compassion, skill, and determination that your case deserves. You don't have to face this daunting journey alone. Talk to a fatal car accident lawyer in Edwardsville, IL today at 866-382-4167 or fill out our online form for a no-obligation case evaluation.


Joel Halvorsen

Joel Halvorsen

Attorney at Law

Joel Halvorsen and his partner Greg Klote founded the Halvorsen Klote law firm on the principle that injured people and their families should have access to the same quality legal representation as large insurance companies.


Greg Klote

Greg Klote

Attorney at Law

Greg Klote is a partner and founder of Halvorsen Klote.

Greg has successfully fought for people who were injured through no fault of their own. He became a lawyer to help make a difference in the lives of those who have been wronged and treated unfairly.