No two fatal accident claims are the same, which is why we cannot quote a set figure that you might be entitled to. The amount of fatal accident compensation you may receive can depend on a number of factors, including the nature of the accident itself, the effect it may have had on your physical and mental wellbeing as well as any financial implications you have had to contend with.
Generally, in the event of a fatal accident, you may be able to claim compensation for:
- Pain, suffering and loss of amenity of the deceased
- Actual losses – Provides for actual expenditures incurred in caring for the injured person, as well as any administrative expenses incurred whilst dealing with th winding up of their estate
- Loss of earnings including loss of services – If the deceased provided a service such as childcare, housework, gardening, and other DIY chores. If the deceased was caring for another sick person in the family, the cost of hiring a replacement carer may also be considered
- Losses of dependency – This is often the largest component of most fatal accident claims. This amount will vary depending on the deceased's income. The calculation may also take into account loss of pension as well as other bonuses and allowances, such as healthcare benefits
In addition to the compensation, there is also the potential for recovering a nominal amount in the form of a Statutory Award for Bereavement.
You may be able to get a £2,000 Bereavement Payment from the government if your husband, wife or civil partner has died as a one-off, tax-free lump sum.
The spouse of the deceased or the parents of a child who died when under the age of 18 years are entitled to claim bereavement damages. You will be able to claim a statutory bereavement award, which is currently £15,120, if the death occurred after 1 May 2020. If the death was before 1 May 2020 the bereavement award is £12,980. Only these persons can claim a bereavement award under the 1976 Act. No one else in the family is entitled to do so.
Although the statutory bereavement damage award is meant to represent compensation for the loss of a loved one and despite steps to make these claims more generous, the compensation remains derisory and a token award, and we will do everything in our power to ensure you receive the compensation you need to help get you through this difficult time.
Assessment of a fatal accident award can be very complicated. Which is why we advise you to instruct specialist fatal accident solicitors who are able to assess your case and endeavour to get the compensation you need at this difficult time.
If you require further information or would like to know more about compensation of death, you can contact us when you're ready on 0370 086 8686 or by sending us a message.