Fatal Car Accident Claims
NoWinNoFee.com is a claims management company that helps people claim compensation for an accident or injury that wasn't their fault
With no win no fee agreements (also known as a Conditional Fee Arrangements, or CFAs), there are no upfront legal fees, which means anyone who has been involved in an accident that wasn’t their fault can gain access to justice without any financial risk. Your solicitor only gets a fee if your claim is successful. If your claim isn't successful, you won’t pay your solicitor any legal fees.
If your case is successful, typically you will pay 25% (including VAT) of your compensation to your solicitor, although they will discuss any fees before starting your case. To ensure your claim is risk free, your solicitor may take out an insurance policy on your behalf. If you terminate the agreement, you may have to pay fees for the time already spent on your claim, or due to: lack of cooperation, misleading your solicitor, missing medical or expert examinations, or not attending court hearings.
There are some instances where you are not required to use the services of a claims management company, and are able to claim yourself, for free, directly via the relevant ombudsman/compensation scheme. These include:
- Criminal injuries: The Criminal Injury Compensation Authority (England, Wales, and Scotland) or the Criminal Injury Compensation Scheme (Northern Ireland)
- Minor road accidents: The Official Injury Claim Portal
- Accidents involving uninsured drivers: The Motor Insurers' Bureau
Fatal Car Accident Claims
Call now on 0800 234 6438
Fatal accident compensation claims
If you’ve recently experienced the unimaginable pain of losing a loved one in a fatal car accident, dealing with the legal and financial aspects of your loss might be overwhelming. Please know that we extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this challenging period.
Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is a tragedy that no one should ever have to endure. The sudden and unexpected nature of such accidents leaves families shattered and struggling to cope with the emotional devastation. Amidst grief and sorrow, seeking compensation may not be the first thing on your mind. However, understanding your rights and options for a fatal car accident compensation claim is essential for securing the support and justice you deserve.
To find out more about making a fatal accident compensation claim, or to speak with a trained legal advisor, call 0800 234 6438 today. They’ll give you free, impartial advice about your claim and they’ll never pressure you into going ahead with your compensation claim. But if you do decide to pursue one, they’ll partner you with a specialist lawyer who will see your case through to completion.
The impact of fatal car accidents on victims’ families
The shock and sorrow that follow such a tragic event can leave families grappling with a range of emotions – from disbelief to anger, and from profound sadness to overwhelming helplessness. The impact on the lives of the victim’s family members is far-reaching.
The grief that accompanies the loss of a loved one is deeply personal and unique to each individual. It’s a process that cannot be rushed, and there is no prescribed timeline for healing. Some may find solace in sharing memories and stories about their loved ones, while others may need space and solitude to process their emotions.
In addition to the emotional turmoil, families of victims often face practical challenges as well. Funeral arrangements, financial burdens, and navigating legal procedures can add to the overwhelming burden during an already painful time. It’s crucial, therefore, to have a support system that understands and offers assistance during these difficult times.
Understanding the Fatal Accidents Act 1976
The Fatal Accidents Act 1976 is a legal statute that provides a framework for compensation in cases of wrongful death resulting from fatal accidents. Enacted in 1976, the Act aims to address the financial and emotional impact on the surviving family members after the tragic loss of a loved one.
Key provisions of the Fatal Accident Act 1976 include:
- Eligibility to claim: The Act allows certain individuals, typically close relatives such as spouses, parents, children, and siblings, to bring a claim for compensation on behalf of the deceased’s estate.
- Financial losses: Compensation can cover various financial losses incurred due to the fatal accident, including funeral expenses, medical bills, and the loss of financial support the deceased provided to the family.
- General damages: The Act recognises the emotional pain and suffering experienced by the surviving family members. Compensation may be awarded for the bereavement and the loss of companionship and guidance provided by the deceased.
- Dependency claims: The Act allows dependents of the deceased to claim compensation if they relied on the deceased’s financial support.
- Statutory limitations: There are specific time limits within which a fatal accident claim must be brought forward. Failure to do so within the designated timeframe may affect the eligibility to claim compensation.
- Court proceedings: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations with the responsible party or their insurance company, the claim may proceed to court for a judge and jury to determine the appropriate compensation.
Why make a fatal accident compensation claim?
Making a fatal accident compensation claim is crucial for several reasons. While nothing can ever replace the loss of a loved one, seeking compensation can provide financial support and some measure of justice for you and your bereaved family:
- Financial support: The aftermath of a fatal car accident often brings significant financial burdens with it. Funeral expenses, medical bills, and other related costs can quickly accumulate. Compensation can help alleviate these financial hardships and provide much-needed support during a challenging time.
- Loss of financial support: When a loved one passes away suddenly, their income and financial contributions are lost. Compensation can help replace this lost financial support, ensuring that your family’s financial stability is not compromised.
- Funeral and burial expenses: Planning a funeral and burial can be expensive. Compensation can cover these costs, allowing you to honour your loved one’s memory without added financial strain.
- Grieving and healing: Dealing with the legal aspects of a fatal car accident can be overwhelming. By seeking compensation, you can focus on the grieving and healing process, knowing that your legal matters are being handled by experienced professionals.
- Holding the responsible party accountable: In many fatal car accidents, there is an at-fault party whose negligence contributed to the tragedy. Seeking compensation holds the responsible party accountable for their actions, ensuring that justice is served.
- Raising awareness: Pursuing a compensation claim can also raise awareness about road safety and the consequences of negligent driving. By highlighting the impact of fatal car accidents, it may help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
- Closure and peace of mind: While compensation cannot bring back a loved one, it can offer a sense of closure and peace of mind as you and your family grieve. Knowing that you have sought justice and financial support can provide some comfort during a difficult time.
- Preserving memories: Compensation can also provide the means to preserve the memory of your loved one who has passed away. Creating memorials or supporting causes close to their heart can be a meaningful way to honour their legacy.
How do I know if I’m eligible to make a fatal accident claim?
To determine if you are eligible to make a fatal injury claim, please consider the following factors:
- Relationship to the deceased: Generally, immediate family members, such as spouses, parents, children, and siblings, are eligible to make a claim. However, eligibility can vary depending on the specific circumstances.
- Evidence of negligence: To pursue a fatal accident claim, you must demonstrate that the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions. This could include reckless driving, driving under the influence, or other forms of negligence.
- Time limitations: In the UK, there are time limitations for filing a fatal accident claim. It’s essential to act promptly and seek legal advice as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss the deadline.
We understand that this is a distressing and sensitive matter. If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal car accident and are considering making a claim, we encourage you to seek legal advice to understand your specific circumstances and explore your options.
To find out if you could be eligible to claim fatal injury compensation, call 0800 234 6438 for free today and speak with a trained legal advisor. If they believe you have a claim to pursue, they’ll partner you with specialist fatal accident solicitors who will work on your behalf on a no win no fee basis, to secure the compensation you and your family deserve.
What types of fatal car accidents can result in a fatal accident compensation claim?
Different kinds of fatal car accidents can lead to a fatal accident compensation claim. These claims arise when someone else’s careless or wrong actions cause the tragic loss of your loved one.
Some common types of fatal car accidents include:
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Head-on collisions: This is when two vehicles hit each other while going in opposite directions. It’s dangerous and can cause severe injuries and even death.
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Rear-end collisions: This happens when one car hits the back of another car. It can be deadly, especially at high speeds.
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T-Bone (side-impact) collisions: This occurs when one car crashes into the side of another. It’s risky for people on the impacted side of the car.
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Roll-over accidents: In these accidents, a car flips onto its side or roof. They can be very dangerous, especially if people aren’t wearing seatbelts.
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Cross road accidents: These accidents happen at road crossings and can be caused by jumping red lights or not giving the right of way.
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Single-vehicle accidents: Some fatal accidents involve only one car. They can happen because of speeding, losing control, or hitting things like trees or poles.
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Multi-vehicle pileups: Pileups often occur on motorways and involve many cars. They can lead to multiple deaths and injuries.
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Drunk driving accidents: Accidents caused by drivers who have had too much to drink or use drugs can be especially sad and deadly.
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Distracted driving accidents: When drivers are distracted by things like texting, talking on the phone, or other activities, accidents can happen, and they can be very dangerous.
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Weather-related accidents: Bad weather like rain, snow, ice, or fog can make driving dangerous and lead to fatal accidents.
Common causes of fatal car accidents
The pain of losing a loved one is compounded when you consider that many fatal car accidents are preventable. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help us raise awareness and work towards preventing future tragedies.
Some of the most prevalent causes include:
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Speeding: Excessive speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in road conditions, increasing the likelihood of a fatal accident.
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Driving under the influence: Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of fatal car accidents.
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Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or other distractions divert a driver’s attention from the road, contributing to accidents.
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Careless driving: Aggressive behaviours such as tailgating and lane weaving can lead to fatal collisions.
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Adverse weather conditions: Rain, snow, ice, and fog create hazardous driving conditions, elevating the risk of fatal accidents.
What is the fatal accident claims process?
The legal process of pursuing a fatal car accident compensation claim may seem daunting, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our aim is to provide you with valuable insights and guidance to help you through this challenging journey.
1. Gathering evidence
The first step in the fatal accident claims process is to gather evidence to support your claim. This evidence is essential in establishing the cause of the accident and who may be at fault. Evidence can include police reports, eyewitness statements, photographs of the accident scene, and medical records detailing the injuries sustained by the victim. Collecting this evidence promptly and thoroughly is crucial to building a strong case.
2. Identifying the at-fault party
Determining liability is a critical aspect of a successful compensation claim. To do this, it’s important to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident thoroughly. Your fatal accident solicitor will work with you to understand the events leading up to the fatal accident and identify the party or parties responsible for the tragedy. This may include other drivers, pedestrians, or even entities responsible for maintaining the road or vehicles involved.
3. Hiring an experienced solicitor
Navigating the legal process of a fatal car accident claim requires expertise and experience. Hiring a skilled solicitor specialising in fatal accident claims is key for building a strong and persuasive case. An experienced solicitor will guide you through the legal complexities, ensuring your rights are protected, and advocate on your behalf. They will work diligently to gather evidence, assess the full extent of damages, and negotiate with insurance companies or other parties involved.
4. Calculating damages
The compensation you may be entitled to depends on various factors, including the financial and emotional impact of the loss. Your solicitor will assess the damages suffered by your family, such as funeral expenses, medical bills, loss of financial support, and the emotional pain and suffering endured. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that you pursue a fair and just amount of compensation.
5. Negotiating settlements
In most fatal injury claims, compensation claims can be resolved through negotiations with insurance companies or other parties. Your solicitor will be your advocate during these negotiations, aiming to secure a settlement that reflects the full extent of your financial losses. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your solicitor may recommend taking the case to court.
6. Court proceedings (if necessary)
In the event that a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your solicitor will guide you through the court process. They will represent your interests in front of a judge and jury, presenting the evidence and arguments to seek a favourable judgment. Having an experienced solicitor by your side ensures that your case is presented effectively, and your rights are protected throughout the court proceedings.
How to prove fault in a fatal car accident claim
Proving fault in a fatal car accident claim is essential to establish liability and hold the responsible party accountable for the tragic loss. While the process can be complex, gathering the right evidence and seeking legal expertise can help build a strong case:
- Gather evidence: Collecting evidence from the accident scene is crucial. This includes getting hold of police reports, photographs of the accident scene, and any available video footage or dash-cam recordings. Eyewitness statements and contact information are also valuable in understanding the sequence of events leading to the accident.
- Accident reconstruction: In some fatal injuries cases, accident reconstruction experts can be useful to analyse the evidence and recreate the accident’s dynamics. This can help determine factors such as vehicle speeds, positions, and the point of impact, providing valuable insight into what happened.
- Review traffic laws: Understanding the relevant traffic laws is essential in determining if any violations occurred that contributed to the accident. For example, speeding, jumping red lights, or failing to give way or stop at a stop sign can be critical in proving fault.
- Driver behaviour: Investigate the actions of the involved drivers leading up to the accident. This includes checking for signs of distracted driving, intoxication, or reckless behaviour. Any evidence suggesting negligence on the part of the at-fault driver can be crucial in proving fault.
- Vehicle maintenance: Check if vehicle maintenance played a role in the accident. Poorly maintained brakes, tyres, or other mechanical issues can contribute to accidents and may indicate negligence on the part of the vehicle owner.
- Witness testimonies: Eyewitness accounts of the accident can be compelling evidence in proving fault. Gathering statements from unbiased witnesses who observed the accident can strengthen your case.
- Defendant’s admission: If the at-fault party admits fault or responsibility for the accident, this can be a significant piece of evidence in your favour.
- Police investigation: Finally, the official police investigation into the accident can provide valuable findings and conclusions about fault and liability.
Proving fault in a fatal car accident claim can be emotionally challenging, especially in the aftermath of such a tragic event. Seeking the support of a knowledgeable solicitor with experience in fatal accident claims can be invaluable. A skilled personal injury claim solicitor will guide you through the process, ensure that evidence is properly collected and presented, and advocate on your behalf to establish liability and seek the compensation you deserve.
To find out more, call 0800 234 6438 today and speak with a trained legal advisor for free. If they believe you have a claim to pursue, they’ll partner you with specialist fatal accident solicitors who will work on your behalf to secure you the compensation you deserve.
How much compensation could I be awarded?
The amount of compensation you could receive depends on several factors, all of which take into account the specific circumstances of your case. This includes the extent of damages suffered by your family, such as funeral expenses and medical bills. It also considers the financial support your loved one provided to the family, and the emotional pain and suffering endured by you and your dependents.
The age and income of the deceased also play a role in determining the compensation amount. If your loved one was the primary earner for your family, the compensation may take into account the future financial support that is now lost.
Additionally, the degree of negligence and liability of the at-fault party is evaluated, along with the available insurance coverage. Having experienced legal representation can be crucial in securing a fair compensation amount, as skilled solicitors can advocate on your behalf and ensure all relevant factors are considered.
Factors affecting fatal car accident compensation
Let’s explore the factors that influence the amount of compensation awarded in fatal car accident claims in more depth.
1. Special damages
Special damages refer to the quantifiable financial losses incurred as a result of the fatal car accident. These damages aim to reimburse your family for the tangible and measurable expenses you have faced due to the tragedy. Some common special damages include:
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Funeral costs: The costs associated with arranging a funeral and burial can be significant. Compensation may cover funeral service fees, burial or cremation expenses, casket or urn costs, and other related expenses.
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Medical bills: If the deceased person received medical treatment before passing away, any medical bills incurred may be considered special damages. This includes hospitalisation, emergency medical care, and other medical expenses.
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Loss of financial support: In cases where the deceased was the primary breadwinner of the family, compensation may include the loss of financial support experienced by the deceased’s family members. This can encompass the income the deceased would have contributed to the household over time.
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Loss of benefits: If the deceased had employment-related benefits, such as health insurance or pension plans, the value of these lost benefits may be included in the compensation.
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Property damage: If the accident resulted in damage to the deceased person’s property, such as their vehicle, compensation may be awarded for repair or replacement costs.
2. General damages
General damages cover the intangible losses that do not have a specific monetary value but are just as crucial to consider. These damages address the emotional and psychological toll the loss of a loved one has on you and your family. Some common general damages include:
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Pain and suffering: Compensation may be awarded to account for the physical and emotional pain the victim endured before their passing. It also encompasses the emotional suffering experienced by the surviving family members due to the loss.
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Loss of companionship: The death of a loved one results in the loss of their companionship, support, and guidance. Compensation may address the profound impact this loss has on the family’s emotional well-being and daily life.
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Mental anguish: The grief and mental anguish experienced by the surviving family members are taken into account when calculating general damages. This includes the emotional trauma and distress caused by the sudden and tragic loss.
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Loss of consortium: For spouses, compensation may be awarded for the loss of marital benefits and the shared quality of life that the deceased provided.
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Loss of guidance and care: If the deceased was a parent or guardian, compensation may be provided for the loss of parental guidance and care experienced by the children or dependents.
The final compensation amount in most fatal accident claims is determined by evaluating the combination of special and general damages. It’s important to note that each fatal car accident claim is unique, and the compensation awarded is specific to the individual circumstances of the case.
Time limitations for making fatal car accident claims
Families should be aware of the time limitations within which they can make a fatal car accident claim to avoid losing their right to compensation.
The time limit for making a fatal car accident claim in the UK is generally three years from the date of the accident or the date of the victim’s passing, whichever is later. This period is known as the “limitation period.” If a claim is not brought within this timeframe, the court may bar the claim, and the opportunity to seek compensation could be lost.
However, it’s important to note that there are exceptions to the three-year limitation period. For example, if the claimant was under the age of 18 at the time of the accident, the three-year limitation period may not start until they reach the age of 18. Additionally, if the claimant lacks mental capacity, the limitation period may not apply until they regain capacity.
Why choose www.NoWinNoFee.com for claiming fatal accident compensation?
We are a reputable company with a proven track record and a partner of National Accident Helpline (NAH), a company that has been helping people claim compensation for over 30 years. As a member of the Law Society, they’re also regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. This means that you can be confident we’re a legitimate company and that we will handle your claim professionally.
We offer a no win no fee service. This means you don’t have to pay anything upfront for our services. If your claim is successful, your specialist solicitor will only charge you a success fee, which is a percentage of the compensation you receive. You have nothing to lose by contacting us and asking for our help.
Call 0800 234 6438 today and speak with a trained legal advisor. They’ll give you free, impartial advice about your claim. They’ll never pressure you into going ahead with your compensation claim, but if you do, they’ll partner you with a specialist lawyer who will see your case through to completion.
