Victims of Violence May Have the Right to Sue for Damages in Illinois

 Posted on March 18, 2022 in Personal Injury

Over 1.3 million violent crimes were reported in the United States in the year 2020. Assault, battery, sexual assault, and other violent crimes can leave victims with physical and psychological injuries that dramatically impact their everyday lives. Sometimes, the perpetrators are brought to justice through the criminal courts. In other cases, perpetrators are able to avoid criminal culpability for their heinous actions. Regardless, criminal consequences like incarceration do not provide restitution to the victims. Many people who are injured in a violent attack are left unable to work and facing steep medical bills. Fortunately, victims of violence in this situation may be able to sue for monetary damages.

Premises Liability Lawsuits for Assault and Other Violent Crimes

If someone is assaulted or otherwise injured in an intentional act of violence, he or she may be able to seek justice through the civil court system. The victim may also be able to recover financial compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. The at-fault party in cases like these varies. The victim may be able to the person who committed the violent crime. However, many perpetrators of violence do not have the financial means to pay damages so suing them may be a fruitless pursuit. In some cases, it is a better idea to sue the party who allowed the assault or other violent act to occur.

Consider an example: A woman complained to her landlord about her broken front door several times, but the landlord never fixed it. The woman is sexually assaulted by an intruder who was able to enter her apartment through the broken door. In this case, the woman may be able to sue the apartment complex and/or landlord because the landlord’s negligence contributed to the attack.

Patrons of restaurants and bars who are injured in a fight or other physical altercation may also be able to sue the restaurant or bar. For example, a bar with inadequate security measures may be liable for injuries caused to patrons during a bar fight. Premises liability claims may also involve college students who are hurt during hazing rituals, assault, fights, or through other means.

Understanding the Difference Between Civil and Criminal Cases

Civil cases, including premises liability cases, are separate from any criminal charges that a perpetrator may face. You may be able to successfully sue for damages through a civil claim even if the perpetrator of the violent act evades criminal responsibility for the attack. A civil claim may bring a victim a sense of justice and closure. It may also allow the victim to recover compensation for hospital bills, mental health treatment, medication, lost wages, and other financial losses.

Contact a Champaign Premises Liability Attorney

IF you or a loved one were assaulted or otherwise injured because of another party’s intentional actions, you may be able to file a premises liability claim and recover damages. The Springfield personal injury lawyers at Kanoski Bresney can help you hold the at-fault party responsible for your injuries and financial losses. Call 888-826-8682 for a free, confidential consultation to learn more about your legal options.

Source:

https://www.statista.com/statistics/191129/reported-violent-crime-in-the-us-since-1990/

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2048&ChapterID=57