Fatal Accident Claims

Our approach to fatal accident claims

We appreciate the trauma of suddenly losing a loved one and that there will be many pressing matters such as finances and childcare that may need to be urgently considered.   Claiming compensation is just one of the many matters which you will have to deal with and to help, in appropriate cases, we will obtain interim payments from the Defendant's insurance company to help ease the financial burden.

Our experience handling fatal accident claims has enabled us to build up a wealth of resources and knowledge that we use to assist our clients.  We pride ourselves on remaining in close touch with clients throughout the claim, at what is invariably a difficult time.

We will also provide you with representation at the inquest if you require it.

Speak to one of our specialist solicitors about your fatal accident claim

Please call 0800 916 9046, email enquiries@rjw.co.uk or use our online enquiry form. Our dedicated fatal accident claim solicitors operate from offices in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Sheffield, Cardiff and Edinburgh and can offer immediate and accessible representation anywhere in the UK.

Helping you understand the law concerning fatal accidents

The law says that any “dependant” can bring a claim for losses or compensation caused by a fatal accident.

A dependant can be:

• A husband or wife, or ex husband or wife of the deceased
• A person who was living with the deceased as if they were husband or wife for at least two years prior to the death
• A child or parent of the deceased
• A civil partner or former civil partner of the deceased
• A person who is a brother, sister, uncle, aunt, niece, nephew or cousin of the deceased

Each case is different but by way of an example, a claim for the loss of a main family earner would include claims for:

• the pain and suffering of the deceased
• loss of income to the family dependants
• funeral expenses
• compensation to pay for the services that the deceased performed such as childcare, DIY and housework
• probate costs

Statutory bereavement award

This is an award paid to you if the deceased was either your husband or wife, or your child who was under 18 at the date of their death.

This award is a fixed sum of £11,800. Please note that this is paid in addition to any dependency claim that you may have.

We have gathered together a list of charities and organisations that may be able to help you if you have lost a loved one.