A fatal accident is a catastrophic event that forever alters the lives of the victim's family and friends. Along with the emotional and psychological devastation that the family suffers as a result of the accident, many also have their financial circumstances irrevocably changed as a result of the unexpected hardship and loss.

A Fatal Accident Claim is usually comprised of two different parts. The first involves the victim's own claim. This is made up of a claim for the pain, suffering and emotional distress suffered by the victim

The Fatal Accidents Act of 1976 allows you to file a fatal accident claim if you are the dependant of a person who has died as a result of the negligent act of another individual and if you were in some fashion dependent on that person's income for your own welfare. For purposes of the Act, the term dependant includes the spouse, cohabite, children parent or grandchildren of the deceased.

There are any number of reasons under which a fatal accident claim can be filed. The most common of these include but are not limited to:

• Loss of financial support since the individual's death. (Often this is the largest and most common aspect of such claims.)

• Loss of any fringe benefits, such as pension rights

• Loss of services that had been previously provided to the deceased, such as domestic assistance, childcare, DIY, and the like

• Compensation for the deceased individual's previous pain and suffering prior to death (if death was not immediate.)

• Loss of income from the injury prior to death, as well as for medical and other expenses incurred between the accident and death

• Funeral expenses (if these are paid by the dependant) as well as the loss or damage of any property that might have been a result of the accident

In addition, if the dependent is the wife, husband, partner or immediate family member of the deceased, a claim for bereavement compensation may also be made.

There never seems to be a good time to discuss legal issues such as filing a fatal accident claim in the wake of the death of a loved one, but it is important to bear in mind that the sooner you and your family deal with the issue, the sooner you will receive the financial support that might be necessary to help you get back to your daily lives. Compensation becomes even more important if there are young children or elderly parents involved, as these are individuals who typically cannot care for themselves properly without assistance.

A fatal accident claim can be highly complex, as there are many factors to take into consideration. Getting proper advice and guidance early in the process can make the case run smoothly and shorten the time it takes to receive your just compensation. contact our No Win No Fee Lawyers to discuss our professional services