A University of Illinois student was killed in a traffic collision in May, just hours before he was to receive his diploma from the University of Illinois. The collision occurred on a Friday night as the student was riding his motorcycle down an Urbana street on his way to get his haircut for graduation. He was a veteran of the Iraq war and not at fault for the collision, according to the Chicago Tribune. His family indicates that he may be buried in his cap and gown. 
Motor vehicle deaths can happen to anyone of any age group, but unfortunately young people are at the greatest risk of being hurt or killed. When student accidents happen, the injuries from a collision can change a young person’s life forever. When a student is killed, the devastated family will likely never get over the grief and loss.
Student accidents are complicated cases in many situations, especially when they result in death. This is because large damage awards are necessary to compensate a young person for a lifetime of pain and disability. When the student is killed, it may also be difficult to determine appropriate compensation. Coplan & Crane, Ltd. can help after student accidents. Call or contact us online today.
Student Accidents Cases Can Be Complicated
In an Illinois wrongful death claim, surviving family members may recover damages for losses including both economic and non-financial loss. This includes all reasonable and necessary medical expenses incurred before the deceased passed away. Lost companionship compensation for the loss of the relationship, as well as funeral expenses, should also be included in a wrongful death claim. Finally, family members may be able to obtain compensation for lost wages.
When someone is killed in a motorcycle collision because of the actions of another driver, the deceased obviously cannot earn a living anymore. He may have been providing money to his family or may have had a successful career, resulting in a significant amount of lost earning potential. The family members who will no longer get the benefit of the deceased’s work efforts can obtain compensation for loss of earnings.
When a student is killed shortly before graduating from college, as the University of Illinois man was, his future earnings are likely speculative. He may have been earning nothing, but his degree may have prepared him for a lucrative position in his field. This complicates a calculation of lost wages, and parents and other survivors who are taking legal action in a wrongful death claim need to understand how to maximize their compensation.
An experienced attorney can help grieving family members to determine what the appropriate amount of damages would be when student accidents cut short a young life. Do not settle a case or agree to anything before talking to an experienced wrongful death law firm.
Call Coplan & Crane, Ltd. at 800-394-6002 or visit http://www.coplancrane.com to schedule your free consultation.