Get a Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Lawyer

Review by T.V.

"I highly recommend BB&G ... I would give 10 stars if I could!"

Review by G.V.

"I am so very pleased with the representation from BB&G!"

Review by M.S.

"The attorneys at BBG were exceptional. The outcome was better than we hoped."

Review by R.G.

"From the moment I contacted this firm I was treated like family."

Review by A.H.

"We couldn't be happier with the outcome or the excellent service."

Review by V.A.

"We felt very secure and confident with their representation."

Review by J.P.

"Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is a legal force to be reckoned with."

Review by T.Z.

"I'm happy with how they handled my case and recommend giving them a call!"

Review by K.N.

"Very easy process with the help of these amazing people. Very happy outcome!"

FREE CONSULTATION

GET A FREE CONSULTATION

Our Lawyers

Plainfield Fatal Car Accident Lawyer

Losing a family member in a car accident is one of the most devastating things a person can go through. When that loss happens because someone else was careless, you deserve answers and you deserve justice. If your loved one was killed in a crash near Plainfield, Illinois, the attorneys at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg are ready to help your family fight for the compensation you need. From the busy intersections along Route 30 to the fast-moving traffic on I-55, the roads in and around Plainfield carry real risk every single day. You should not have to face the legal process alone while you are grieving.

Fatal Car Accidents on Plainfield Roads: What Families Need to Know
Illinois Law and Your Rights After a Fatal Crash
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Illinois?
Damages and Liability in Plainfield Fatal Accident Cases
Why Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Is the Right Choice for Your Family
FAQs About Plainfield Fatal Car Accident Lawyers

Fatal Car Accidents on Plainfield Roads: What Families Need to Know

Plainfield sits in Will County, just southwest of Chicago along the I-55 corridor. The town has grown rapidly over the past two decades, and that growth has brought more traffic, more congestion, and more danger on roads like Route 59, Route 126, and Caton Farm Road. These are not just numbers on a map. They are roads where families travel every day, and where serious crashes happen far too often.

In 2024, there were 303,913 crashes involving motor vehicles in Illinois. Injury crashes accounted for 20.8% of those crashes, while fatal crashes accounted for less than 1% of all crashes statewide. Even so, that fraction adds up to more than 1,000 families who lost someone in a single year. The total estimated cost of crashes in Illinois for 2024 was $8.3 billion. But no dollar figure captures what a family loses when a loved one does not come home.

Common causes of fatal crashes in the Plainfield area include speeding on highway ramps, distracted driving at busy intersections, and drunk driving late at night. Drivers killed amount to 60.6% of all fatalities in Illinois. Passengers represent 17.7% of the total number of fatalities, and pedestrians account for 18.4% of all fatalities, representing an 11.3% increase from 2023 to 2024. When you look at those numbers, it is clear that crashes affect everyone on the road, not just the person behind the wheel.

If your family has been affected by a fatal crash near Plainfield, a Chicago fatal car accident lawyer from Briskman Briskman & Greenberg can help you understand your rights and your options. The sooner you reach out, the sooner your legal team can begin gathering evidence before it disappears.

Illinois Law and Your Rights After a Fatal Crash

Illinois law gives surviving family members the right to seek compensation when a loved one dies due to someone else’s negligence. That right comes from the Illinois Wrongful Death Act, found at 740 ILCS 180. Under this law, when a person’s death is caused by a wrongful act, neglect, or default, the responsible party can be held liable for damages, including punitive damages when applicable. This means the at-fault driver, their employer, or even a vehicle manufacturer could potentially be named in your claim.

Illinois law under 625 ILCS 5/11-401 also requires that any driver involved in a crash resulting in death or injury must immediately stop at the scene and remain there. A driver who leaves the scene commits a serious crime. Each driver involved in an Illinois traffic crash must file a crash report if the crash caused a death, bodily injury, or more than $1,500 of property damage when all drivers are insured. When a driver flees or fails to report, it complicates the investigation, but it does not eliminate your right to pursue justice.

Illinois also requires all drivers to carry liability insurance under 625 ILCS 5/7-601. That insurance coverage is often the primary source of compensation in fatal crash cases. If the at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured, your attorney can explore other avenues for recovery, including your own uninsured motorist coverage.

Understanding how Illinois law applies to your specific situation takes time and legal knowledge. The team at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg has handled these cases throughout the Chicago area and surrounding communities, including Joliet and Plainfield. If you want to learn more about who can be held responsible, visit our car accident responsibility FAQ for more information.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Illinois?

Not everyone can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Illinois. The law has specific rules about who is allowed to bring a claim. Under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180), the lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. That representative then pursues the claim on behalf of the surviving spouse and next of kin, such as children or parents.

This can feel overwhelming when you are already dealing with grief, funeral arrangements, and financial stress. That is why having an attorney involved early makes such a big difference. Your lawyer can help identify the right personal representative, gather the necessary documentation, and make sure the claim is filed correctly from the start.

Time is also a major factor. The wrongful death statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of death, not the date of injury, under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/2). That means if your loved one was injured in a crash but survived for several weeks before passing, the two-year clock starts from the date of death, not the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can cost your family the right to any compensation at all.

There are limited exceptions to this deadline. If the next of kin of the decedent is a minor, they can bring the action within two years of their 18th birthday. However, relying on exceptions is risky. The safest approach is to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the loss. A Joliet fatal accident lawyer from our team can review your situation and make sure your family does not miss a critical deadline.

Damages and Liability in Plainfield Fatal Accident Cases

When a fatal crash occurs, the financial impact on a family can be enormous. Medical bills may pile up before the death. Funeral and burial costs add more pressure. And then there is the long-term loss of income, support, and guidance that the deceased would have provided to their family for years to come.

Illinois law allows families to seek compensation for all of these losses. Damages in a wrongful death case can include medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, lost future income and financial support, loss of companionship and guidance, and the grief and emotional suffering of surviving family members.

When multiple parties share fault for a crash, Illinois law under 735 ILCS 5/2-1117 governs how liability is divided. Under this statute, all defendants found liable are jointly and severally liable for the plaintiff’s past and future medical and medically related expenses. Any defendant whose fault is 25% or greater is jointly and severally liable for all other damages as well. This matters because it can determine how much each responsible party must pay, and it can affect your family’s ability to collect a full recovery even if one defendant has limited assets.

Think about a crash on I-55 near the Plainfield interchange where a commercial truck driver runs a red light and kills a commuter. The driver, the trucking company, and possibly the company that loaded the cargo could all share liability. Our attorneys at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg know how to identify every responsible party and pursue full compensation on your family’s behalf. We also handle cases in neighboring communities. If you need a Wheeling fatal car accident lawyer, our team serves families across the greater Chicago area.

Why Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Is the Right Choice for Your Family

Choosing a lawyer after a fatal accident is one of the most important decisions your family will make. You need someone who understands Illinois personal injury law inside and out, who will communicate with you clearly, and who will fight hard to get your family the compensation it deserves. Briskman Briskman & Greenberg has been serving families throughout the Chicago area for decades, handling serious injury and wrongful death cases with care and determination.

Our firm takes fatal car accident cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for your family. There are no upfront costs and no fees unless we win. This approach allows families in Plainfield and throughout the Chicago area to access strong legal representation without worrying about how they will afford it.

We know the roads around Plainfield well. We know the Will County Courthouse in Joliet, where many of these cases are filed. We understand how local juries think, how insurance companies operate, and how to build a case that stands up under pressure. Our team investigates crash scenes, works with accident reconstruction experts, reviews police reports, and gathers witness statements to build the strongest possible case for your family.

If your family has lost someone in a fatal crash near Plainfield, do not wait. Reach out to a Chicago car accident attorney at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg today for a free consultation. You can also learn more about our full range of services by visiting our main page as a Chicago personal injury lawyer. We are here to help your family through one of the hardest times you will ever face.

FAQs About Plainfield Fatal Car Accident Lawyers

How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit after a fatal car accident in Illinois?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of death under 740 ILCS 180/2. This deadline applies in most cases, though limited exceptions exist, such as when the next of kin is a minor. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your family from seeking compensation. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Who can file a wrongful death claim on behalf of my family in Illinois?

Under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate must file the lawsuit. That representative pursues the claim on behalf of the surviving spouse and next of kin, including children and parents. An attorney can help your family identify and appoint the right representative and guide you through the entire process.

What types of compensation can my family recover in a fatal car accident case?

Your family may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses incurred before your loved one’s death, funeral and burial costs, lost income and financial support, loss of companionship and guidance, and emotional suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be available when the at-fault party’s conduct was especially reckless or intentional under Illinois law.

What if the driver who caused the crash fled the scene or had no insurance?

Illinois law under 625 ILCS 5/11-401 requires drivers involved in fatal crashes to stop and remain at the scene. Leaving is a serious felony offense. Even if the at-fault driver fled or lacked insurance, your family may still have options. Your own uninsured motorist coverage, other liable parties such as employers or vehicle owners, and other sources of recovery may be available. An attorney can help identify all potential avenues for compensation.

Does it cost anything to speak with a Plainfield fatal car accident lawyer at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg?

No. Briskman Briskman & Greenberg offers free consultations to families who have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident. The firm handles wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless your family recovers compensation. This allows you to get experienced legal help without any financial risk during an already difficult time.

More Resources About Vehicle Injuries

The overall experience I had with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg was the kind that everyone should receive from any firm.

The staff stayed in contact with me via phone and email, they were very knowledgeable, they made sure I understood what was going on at all times, they answered all of my questions, were transparent, and definitely exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend them.

- Brandon Spivey

The level of care, attentiveness, empathy and concern relating to my case when dealing with Briskman Briskman and Greenberg surpassed my expectations.

They were extremely knowledgeable and fair in all matters related. They exemplified excellent customer service and care. They kept me inform and updated every step of the way and any questions I had they answered. I highly recommend using them as I would again.

- Joshua Payton

I was put to ease with the professionalism at Briskman and Briskman.

Paul Greenberg especially put my mind to rest and within a years time I have settled my case and I am very satisfied with the outcome. My injury was devastating but working with this law firm has put a lot of stressful nights to rest.

- Nakia Childs

I needed a personal injury lawyer and Gavin and his team went above and beyond.

They made the process simple and helped me in every step of the way. What I really appreciate is that they are straightforward and are quick to respond to my questions and any issues from a text or phone call. They as well continuously checked up on me. I'm happy with how they handled my case and would recommend giving them a call!

- Ted Zakrzewski

Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers (BBG) is a legal team you want on your side.

They handled my case in a professional, sensitive and very competent manner. The staff exhibits expertise in the legal realm and provided excellent customer support and care. Thanks BBG for your help with navigating a very sensitive and challenging case for my family.

- Robin Albritton

If you were in an accident and need an excellent lawyer, talk to Paul!!

Very nice and professional lawyer that extremely cares about their clients. Fingers crossed I'm never in an accident ever again but if so, I' would definitely, 10/10 use Paul again!

- Danny S.

I am so very pleased with the representation from BB&G!

Robert Briskman handled my injury case very well. Funny and understanding personality and he took the time to explain everything in detail of the entire case. It was wonderful working with him. I would recommend BB&G to anyone and for myself again in the future.

- Geneva Vanderbilt

From the moment I contacted this law firm I was treated like family.

Gavin Pearlman was honest and upfront with me throughout the process. No surprises and never kept me hanging. I strongly recommend These attorneys for your needs.

- Ron Gaber

I cannot say enough good things about the attorneys at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers.

They were extremely responsive, professional, and compassionate throughout the entire process.Their negotiations skills were exceptional, and they were able to secure a settlement that far exceeded my expectations.I am grateful to have had such a dedicated team