Losing a loved one due to an accident or negligence is devastating. Alongside the emotional impact, families are often left facing financial uncertainty and difficult questions about responsibility and accountability.
Claim Pathway provides clear information to help families understand their options after a fatal injury. Our SRA-regulated solicitors specialise in fatal injury and dependency claims, and can help guide you through the whole process if you wish to claim compensation.
Fatal injury claims arise when someone dies as a result of another party’s negligence.
These claims are not about placing blame for the sake of it, but about securing financial stability for dependants and recognising the impact the loss has had on those left behind.
The legal process can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time, which is why understanding your rights and options is an important first step.
What is a fatal injury claim?
A fatal injury claim is made when a person dies as a result of an accident or negligence caused by another party. These claims are brought on behalf of the deceased’s estate or by their dependants to seek compensation for the financial and emotional impact of the loss.
Fatal injury claims commonly arise from road traffic accidents, workplace incidents, medical negligence, or accidents in public or private premises.
Who can make a fatal injury claim?
Fatal injury claims are usually made by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate or by close family members who were financially dependent on them. This may include a spouse or partner, children or other dependants.
Eligibility depends on your relationship to the deceased and your circumstances, which is why specialist guidance is often needed.
What compensation is available in fatal injury cases?
Compensation in fatal injury claims is intended to support those left behind and recognise the losses resulting from the death. While compensation cannot make up for the loss of life, it can help provide financial security and stability.
This may include funeral expenses, loss of financial dependency, loss of services provided by the deceased and bereavement damages where applicable.
What is a dependency claim?
A dependency claim is a type of fatal injury claim made by individuals who relied on the deceased for financial support or services. This may include income, household contributions, childcare or other forms of support.
The purpose of a dependency claim is to reflect the ongoing financial impact of the death on surviving family members.
How long do fatal injury claims take to resolve?
The time it takes to resolve a fatal injury claim varies depending on the complexity of the case and the circumstances surrounding the death. Some claims may take many months, while others can take longer if liability or dependency needs to be fully assessed.
Claims are often handled carefully to ensure the full financial impact on the family is properly understood before settlement.
Is there a time limit for fatal injury claims?
In most cases, fatal injury claims must be started within three years of the date of death or the date when negligence became known. This is known as the limitation period.
There may be exceptions, particularly where children are involved or where the claim is brought by the estate. Because time limits can be complex, early guidance is important. Click here to request a callback from a specialist Solicitor, who can discuss your options further.
Compensation in fatal injury claims is intended to support those left behind financially and recognise the loss suffered. While no amount can compensate for the loss of life, a claim can help provide security and stability for the future.
Fatal injury claims are assessed based on the circumstances of the death and the impact on surviving family members and dependants.
Compensation may include:
- Funeral and related expenses
- Loss of financial dependency
- Loss of services provided by the deceased
- Bereavement damages (where applicable)
- Other financial losses linked to the death
Our Claim Compensation Calculator can provide a general indication of the types of compensation that may be considered in a fatal injury claim. It is free to use and designed to offer guidance only, with no obligation.
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