Wrongful Death

Can You Sue a Nursing Home for Wrongful Death in Illinois?

May 30, 2025 | John J. Malm

At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand how devastating it is to lose a loved one under any circumstance—but especially so when their passing could have been prevented. Our Naperville-based firm has decades of experience helping families across Illinois seek justice in the face of nursing home abuse and neglect. When a resident dies due to substandard care, negligent staff, or dangerous facility conditions, their family has every right to demand accountability. A wrongful death lawsuit isn’t just about financial compensation—it’s about justice, closure, and preventing future harm to other vulnerable residents.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about filing a wrongful death claim against a nursing home in Illinois—from the legal framework and process to common causes of fatalities and what kind of compensation may be available. We’ll also offer resources to help you make informed decisions. Continue reading

The Dangers of Street Racing and Drag Racing in Illinois

July 25, 2024 | John J. Malm

Street and drag racing have long been glamorized by movies and television shows, often depicted as thrilling and rebellious. However, the reality is far from the glitz and glam. These illegal racing activities pose significant dangers to both participants and innocent bystanders. In Illinois, the rise in street racing incidents has prompted law enforcement and communities to take a closer look at the perils associated with this dangerous trend. This blog will delve into the risks of street and drag racing, supported by alarming statistics and expert insights.

The Allure of Street and Drag Racing

Street racing typically involves drivers competing on public roads, often late at night or in isolated areas, to avoid detection by law enforcement. Drag racing, on the other hand, involves a straight-line race between two cars over a short distance, usually a quarter-mile. Both activities are illegal and dangerous, yet they continue to attract participants due to the adrenaline rush, the competitive spirit, and the perceived glamour associated with high-speed racing. Continue reading

Why are Deaths from Pedestrian Accidents in Illinois Increasing?

March 4, 2024 | John J. Malm

On Sunday, March 3, 2024, a pedestrian was fatally injured after being struck in a hit and run accident in Chicago. The police stated that a man was in the street when he was struck by a dark-colored SUV that continued driving westbound on Marquette Road in Chicago Lawn. Despite their vigilant investigation, police do not currently have anyone in custody.

On Sunday, February 25, 2024, an elderly couple were killed in the City of Chicago after being struck by a pickup truck while crossing the street to go to church. According to the police, the elderly couple was in the crosswalk when they were struck by a Ford F150 pickup truck. The pickup truck was seen on security video making a left before knocking the couple down to the ground while they were in the crosswalk. After the collision, the pedestrians were taken to local hospitals, where they later succumbed to their injuries. The pickup truck driver was given a citation for failure to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk. Continue reading

Illinois Families May Now Recover Punitive Damages In Wrongful Death Act and Survival Act Claims

February 19, 2024 | John J. Malm

On August 11, 2023, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed House Bill 219 which amends both the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180) and The Probate Act of 1975 (755 ILCS 5/27-6) to allow for punitive damages in wrongful death and survival claims. Under Public Act 103-0514, punitive damages are now expressly allowed in wrongful death claims and survival claims. As noted in Public Act 103-0514 and the Wrongful Death Act, punitive damages still may not be claimed in certain types of claims, including medical malpractice claims, legal malpractice claims, and certain claims against state and local governments. Continue reading