Most of the accident victims we deal with in Devon are lucky enough to survive. However, fatalities are not uncommon and we are experienced in dealing with the legal claims that arise.

Fatal accident cases are often complex and involve difficult emotional issues especially for the grieving families.

Fatal accident claims are regulated by statute and in particular the Fatal Accidents Act 1976.

Claims can be made for bereavement damages, funeral and associated expenses and compensation for loss of dependency where the deceased was supporting dependants.

STATUTORY AWARD

The statutory award of compensation for bereavement is pitifully low. For a death before 1 January 2008 £10,000 is payable to the spouse, partner or mother of the fatally injured victim. For deaths after 1 January 2008 the statutory award is £11,800.

LOSS OF DEPENDENCY

Claims for loss of dependency can lead to more significant claims for compensation. Dependants may bring a claim for continued financial support based upon what they would have received had the accident victim survived. Dependants can include the surviving spouse or partner of the victim, the victim’s children or parents or anyone treated as a child, parent, grandchild or grandparent.

Dependency claims can often be complex but our Devon based solicitors are experienced in preparing detailed loss calculations. We frequently liaise with local forensic accountants in calculating financial losses, including loss of earnings.

LOCAL DEVON SOLICITORS CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

We are required to appear at coroner’s inquests which are held at local courts throughout Devon and beyond. The verdict of a coroner’s inquest is often highly significant in terms of a civil claim for compensation. We would therefore recommend that you involve us at the earliest possible stage so that we can if necessary arrange to attend the inquest and raise any questions that need to be answered.

We deal with fatal accident claims on a No Win - No Fee basis. As with other types of injury claim, compensation is paid in full and home visits throughout Devon are offered to bereaved families who prefer a personal, face-to-face service.

We cover the whole of Devon including:

Axminster, Barnstaple, Bideford, Braunton, Brixham, Chumleigh, Crediton, Dawlish, Exeter, Exmouth, Holsworthy, Ilfracombe, Kingsbridge, Lynton, Newton Abbot, Okehampton, Ottery St Mary, Paignton, Plymouth, Sidmouth, South Molton, Tavistock, Tiverton, Torbay, Torquay, Torrington and all the surrounding areas.

We pride ourselves on being able to offer the personal touch so if you would like to speak to a solicitor about making a fatal accident claim then contact us now for a confidential and free of charge consultation.