St. Louis and Southern Illinois Personal Injury Lawyers
St. Louis Fatal Car Crash Lawyer
Call 877-51-HKLAW for a Consultation and Case Review | St. Louis Fatal Car Crash Lawyer.
Fatal Car Crash Lawyer in St. Louis. If you were left reeling after the death of a loved one in a car accident in Greater St. Louis or Southern Illinois, call a Halvorsen Klote fatal car crash lawyer today at 877-51-HKLAW or contact us online for a free case review.
At HK Law, our fatal car crash lawyer team members pride themselves on offering top-quality legal services to the injured in St. Louis and Southern Illinois, regardless of their financial status. Nothing can truly compensate you for the death of a loved one, especially if you envisioned yourself having decades more time to spend with them. Losing anyone is difficult, especially when they were vital to your family's financial and emotional health. When that happens because of somebody else's negligence, you need a lawyer to help you put your life back together. HK Law's fatal car crash lawyer team in St. Louis will be able to get the maximum financial recovery possible to help you start to recover and more forward. We keep you informed throughout your case and answer any questions you have about your case.
Determining Liability
In the aftermath of a fatal car accident, determining liability is a critical aspect of seeking justice for the victims and their families. An experienced car accident attorney in St. Louis plays a pivotal role in establishing who is legally responsible for the tragedy.
Car accident cases can involve multiple parties, including negligent drivers, vehicle manufacturers, road maintenance authorities, and more. The attorney carefully examines the circumstances surrounding the accident to identify all potentially liable parties. This thorough investigation is essential to ensure that no stone is left unturned when pursuing justice.
Preserving evidence and identifying witnesses are key components of determining liability. The attorney works diligently to gather and preserve crucial evidence such as accident reports, eyewitness testimonies, surveillance footage, and expert opinions. This evidence strengthens the case and helps establish liability, increasing the chances of a successful car accident claim.
Pursuing Compensation
Fatal car accidents bring not only immense emotional pain but also significant financial burdens for the victims' families. Understanding the types of compensation available in such cases is essential for providing support to those affected.
Victims' families may be eligible for compensation that includes medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, loss of income, and pain and suffering. An experienced car accident attorney in St. Louis guides families through the complex legal process to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.
The financial and emotional burdens faced by victims' families can be overwhelming. Legal representation is crucial to ensure that these families are not further burdened by the complex legal aspects of their car accident claims. A skilled attorney advocates for their clients, fighting for fair compensation and easing the financial strain during this challenging time.
Navigating Insurance Claims
Dealing with insurance companies after a fatal car accident can be a daunting task. These companies often employ tactics to minimize payouts, making it essential to have an experienced car accident attorney in St. Louis on your side.
Insurance companies may delay or deny claims, offer inadequate settlements, or even shift blame onto the victims. An attorney with a deep understanding of car accident laws in Missouri is well-equipped to handle these complexities. They protect their clients' rights and interests by countering the insurers' tactics.
One of the lawyer's critical roles is negotiating with insurance providers. They leverage their knowledge of car accident laws and experience in dealing with insurers to pursue the maximum compensation possible for their clients. This ensures that victims' families receive the financial support they need to cope with the aftermath of a fatal car accident and begin the process of healing.
Traffic Fatality Statistics | St. Louis Fatal Car Crash Lawyer
In 2020 there were 35,766 fatal car accidents in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In Missouri, there were 987 fatalities, while in Illinois there were 1,089 deaths.With each one of those crashes, families and loved ones were left behind to pick up the pieces after a sudden and tragic loss.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motor vehicle accidents were one of the two leading causes of death in the United States for people age 44 or younger. They were the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 5 and 24. Unfortunately, the St. Louis fatal car crash lawyer team of HK Law knows all too well the damage that reckless and irresponsible drivers can cause on families and on people who did not deserve to go so young.
Causes of Car Accident Deaths | St. Louis Fatal Car Crash Lawyer
Every St. Louis car accident is different; however there are some common factors related to what causes them. The fatal car crash lawyer team at HK Law has investigated hundreds of car accident claims in St. Louis and Southern Illinois, and some of the most common causes we see are:
- Drunk Driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 28 people die every day in drunk driving crashes, which adds up to one person every 52 minutes, and over 10,000 people a year.
- Distracted driving. About 8 people die every day from distracted driving, and 20 percent of them were bicyclists or pedestrians. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 80 percent of all crashes involve driver inattention in the moments leading up to the crash.
- Aggressive or Reckless Driving. Around 56 percent of fatal crashes involve aggressive driving. Speeding is the most common factor in fatal crashes in Missouri.
- Inclement Weather. While you can't sue the weather, drivers in St. Louis and Southern Illinois are required to change how they drive in poor conditions, including slowing down and increasing following distance.
- Faulty Parts. When brakes, seatbelts or airbags don't work, it can cause injuries and death that otherwise would not have happened. Car manufacturers have an obligation to develop a safe product and issue recalls when they discover an unsafe feature.
Unfortunately, every Halvorsen Kolte's fatal car crash lawyer has seen all too well the destruction and devastation that negligent drivers and manufacturers in St. Louis and Southern Illinois can cause when they act irresponsibly. Your loved one should still be here, and you should not have to deal with the pain and financial hardship of losing them. HK Law will determine who is liable and get you the full compensation you need to start moving forward. Call our fatal car crash lawyer team today at 877-51-HKLAW.
Wrongful Death Claims | St. Louis Fatal Car Crash Lawyer
If a loved one was killed by somebody else's negligence, you have the right to file a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death claims can be brought in situations where the deceased would have been able to file a personal injury claim, had they survived. Your St. Louis fatal car crash lawyer will be able to determine who you can sue in a wrongful death case, prove negligence and see you compensated for your pain and suffering.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim? | St. Louis Fatal Car Crash Lawyer
Typically, the only people who can file a wrongful death claim are people that are closely related to deceased. In both Missouri, according to Revised Statute §537.090 a surviving spouse, parents or children can make a claim. If none exist, then a brother or sister, grandchildren or other relatives can make a claim if they establish their right to damages. Sometimes, if no close relatives exist, the court can appoint someone to make a claim on the deceased's behalf. If a loved one died in St. Louis or Southern Illinois, the fatal car crash lawyer at Halvorsen Klote will help you understand if you can make a claim.
In Illinois, 740 ILCS 180/2 states that a surviving spouse or next of kin, meaning the closest living relative, may file a claim.
If a loved one was killed in a motor vehicle accident, it's imperative to speak to a St. Louis fatal car crash lawyer as soon as possible to understand your rights and to understand if you have the right to make a claim under the law.
What Damages Can I Receive in a Wrongful Death Claim? | St. Louis Fatal Car Crash Lawyer
How much your claim is worth depends on several factors. Both Illinois and Missouri law have specified the types of damages a family can receive in a wrongful death claim. An HK Law St. Louis fatal car crash lawyer will help you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Missouri
According to Missouri Revised Statute §537.090, you can receive damages for the reasonable value of:
- Funeral expenses
- Lost income
- Reduced capacity for future income
- Medical expenses from the time of the injury until death
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of companionship
- Comfort
- Instruction or guidance
- Counsel
- Training
- Support
- Any damages the deceased would have been entitled to had they not died
Illinois
According to 740 ILCS 180/, juries can award the damages from they "deem fair and just," including:
- Funeral expenses
- Hospitalization or hospital services
- Medical and surgical services
- Grief
- Sorrow
- Mental suffering
- Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided, including lost wages and benefits
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of instruction, education and moral training the deceased would have provided
Because of the extraordinary economic and emotional impact the death of a loved one has, wrongful death claims can often result in millions of dollars in compensation. If a family has died in a car accident, the St. Louis fatal car crash lawyers of Halvorsen Klote have the experience, knowledge and compassion to ensure that you receive the maximum financial recovery possible for the unjust passing of a loved one.
How Long Do I Have to File a Wrongful Death Claim | St. Louis Fatal Car Crash Lawyer
Both Missouri and Illinois have statutes of limitations in personal injury claims, including wrongful death claims.
According to Missouri Revised Statute §537.100, wrongful death claims must be filed within three years of the death. If the defendant leaves the state of Missouri, the time that they spend out of state does not count against the three years.
As with other personal injury claims, the statute of limitations in Illinois is two years from the date of death. However, if the death is caused by involuntary manslaughter or reckless homicide, such as in a drunk driving case, the statute of limitations is one year after the the criminal case concludes.
Wrongful death claims are complicated and it's important to reach out to a fatal car crash lawyer right away if a loved one has been injured in Greater St. Louis or Southern Illinois. You do not want to miss out on a chance to receive the compensation you deserve because you waited too long. Call a Halvorsen Klote Law fatal car crash lawyer today at 877-51-HKLAW.
Besides car accidents, our fatal car crash lawyer team often sees wrongful death cases in St. Louis and Illinois in:
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I've lost a loved one in a fatal car accident in St. Louis?
If you’ve tragically lost a family member in a fatal car accident, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced car accident attorney in St. Louis. These professionals specialize in handling car accident claims and can guide you through the legal process. They will help you determine if you have a valid car accident claim, gather essential evidence to establish liability, and navigate the complexities of pursuing compensation.
If you’ve tragically lost a family member in a fatal car accident, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced car accident attorney in St. Louis. These professionals specialize in handling car accident claims and can guide you through the legal process. They will help you determine if you have a valid car accident claim, gather essential evidence to establish liability, and navigate the complexities of pursuing compensation.
How can a car accident lawyer help me with my case?
A car accident lawyer plays a pivotal role in advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. They bring their expertise to the table, thoroughly investigating your car accident case, identifying liable parties, and preserving crucial evidence. Additionally, they’ll assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering, to ensure you receive fair compensation.
A car accident lawyer plays a pivotal role in advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. They bring their expertise to the table, thoroughly investigating your car accident case, identifying liable parties, and preserving crucial evidence. Additionally, they’ll assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering, to ensure you receive fair compensation.
What if the insurance company offers me a settlement after the accident?
It’s essential to be cautious when dealing with insurance companies after a car accident. Insurers may offer quick settlements that do not adequately cover your losses. Consulting with a car accident attorney in St. Louis before accepting any settlement is advisable. They can review the offer and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to secure a more suitable compensation package.
It’s essential to be cautious when dealing with insurance companies after a car accident. Insurers may offer quick settlements that do not adequately cover your losses. Consulting with a car accident attorney in St. Louis before accepting any settlement is advisable. They can review the offer and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to secure a more suitable compensation package.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in St. Louis?
The time limit, or statute of limitations, for filing a car accident claim in St. Louis can vary depending on the circumstances of your case. Typically, it’s important to act promptly. Consulting with a car accident attorney is crucial, as they can provide you with the specific deadline for your claim and ensure all necessary paperwork is submitted in a timely manner to protect your rights and maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
The time limit, or statute of limitations, for filing a car accident claim in St. Louis can vary depending on the circumstances of your case. Typically, it’s important to act promptly. Consulting with a car accident attorney is crucial, as they can provide you with the specific deadline for your claim and ensure all necessary paperwork is submitted in a timely manner to protect your rights and maximize your chances of a successful outcome.
Call HK Law Today
St. Louis Fatal Car Crash Lawyer | Halvorsen Klote
If you have questions about the circumstances surrounding your loved one's death, HK Law's St. Louis fatal car crash lawyer team has the answers. We are there for you 24/7, whether it's directly after a tragedy occurs or when you have doubts or questions about your case. There is no upfront risk to speaking to us or hiring us, as we charge no fees unless we win your case. Every HK Law fatal car crash lawyer represents every client in St. Louis and Southern Illinois zealously and compassionately. Call a Halvorsen Klote St. Louis fatal car crash lawyer today at 877-51-HKLAW or contact us online for a free consultation.
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
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.
Samantha Orlowski
Attorney at Law
Samantha Orlowski is a practicing attorney Halvorsen Klote.
Samantha joined Halvorsen Klote in 2018 as a law clerk and has since become a practicing attorney. Sam's number one priority is to provide individualized experiences for each client to achieve the best results.
