On August 17, 2024, a speeding and intoxicated driver caused a UTV crash near Hebron, Illinois. Unfortunately, both the driver and one of two passengers passed away. The estate of the deceased passenger sued the estate of the driver. After an intensive investigation, the driver was found to be liable. On January 25, 2026, the passenger’s estate agreed to a $1,000,000 wrongful death settlement.
If you are hurt in a crash or facing a wrongful death situation, our personal injury lawyers can help you.
What Happened Near Hebron, IL
Three men rode a UTV near the unincorporated community of Hebron. Ryan Wilson, 40, operated the UTV with Bryan Dahm, 36, and an unnamed passenger. Wilson lost control of the vehicle and it hit a utility pole. The UTV rolled multiple times and caught fire.
Dahm was removing himself from the burning vehicle when he stepped on a live wire. According to the lawsuit, Dahm died by electrocution. Authorities pronounced Wilson dead at the scene.
The unnamed passenger only experienced minor injuries.
The Elements of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
This news story is an example of complex wrongful death liability. A wrongful death claim requires proving that another party’s negligent actions caused a person’s death. Four essential elements make up a wrongful death lawsuit. They are a duty of care, a breach of that duty, direct causation, and damages.
The plaintiff argued the UTV accident in Hebron, IL and its lawsuit as the following scenario.
Duty of Care
In this case, the plaintiff alleged that Wilson owed Dahm a legal duty to act safely, like driving sober.
Breach of Duty
Then, the prosecution needed to prove that Wilson failed in his duty of care through recklessness.
Causation
The plaintiff alleged that the breach of duty resulted in Dahm’s wrongful death.
Damages to Survivors
Dahm’s death negatively affected his family, including his wife and two children.
Unfortunately, wrongful deaths extend beyond vehicle rollover accidents. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we’ve handled many wrongful death cases. Wrongful death case examples include medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and defective products.
What Investigators Examine After a Wrongful Death Accident
The initial police report is just the starting point. Legal teams must dig deeper to secure a significant settlement, like the $1,000,000 reached in the Hebron UTV case. Details build a strong case.
Multiple types of evidence could prove someone’s actions caused another’s death.
- Forensic Scene Reconstruction
- Medical Records and Toxicology Reports
- Any Electronic Data
- Witness Statements
- Surveillance Footage
Your Legal Rights After a Wrongful Death
Losing a loved one is a heavy burden, especially if their death could’ve been prevented. No amount of money can replace the person. But, filing a wrongful death claim is vital for holding the responsible parties accountable.
Like many other states, Illinois allows surviving family members to seek compensation for damages. Potential damages extend beyond pain and suffering, and include:
- Financial Support
- Loss of Companionship
- Accountability
You Don’t Need to Fight Alone
A legal fight is overwhelming, especially after a tragedy. You and your family deserve a team that moves quicker than the defendant. At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we prioritize your recovery.
With an office in Chicago, IL and more than 20 other states, we have the team and resources to fight on your behalf. Book a free and confidential case review online or by calling (800) 229-7989 today.
