Sadly, the number of deaths on UK roads is rising despite advances in vehicle safety design and technology. 1,901 people were killed on Britain’s roads in 2010-11 – an increase of 3% on the previous year and the first rise since 2003. Of this figure, the biggest increase was amongst pedestrians, with 12% more killed in 2010-11 than in 2009-10.
The number of deaths amongst car occupants also rose by 6%. Fatalities amongst motorcyclists and cyclists fell, but it’s clear that Britain’s roads are still a dangerous place to be. And if the worst happens to a partner or relative, the statistic becomes irrelevant for those who are left behind.
Of course, a compensation payment can never repair the damage that’s done when you lose a loved one in a road traffic accident. But at a time of pain and distress, knowing you could receive a payout can help ease the burden.
Compensation awards for road traffic accident fatalities can be substantial, removing financial pressures and making life easier in the future. If it can be proved that the accident was someone else’s fault, close relatives are entitled to a statutory bereavement payment currently worth £11,800. You’ll also receive reasonable expenses to cover funeral costs.
A ‘close relative’ could be a spouse or civil partner, child, parent, grandparent or other immediate family member such as a brother, sister, aunt or uncle. Unmarried cohabiting partners and former spouses may also be able to claim.
On top of the main award, an additional dependency claim can be made if the deceased person’s partner, spouse or children were financially dependent on them. This additional award will cover the loss of income resulting from the accident and is especially important if the victim was the main breadwinner.
Start your claim today – contact Injury Lawyers 4U
Injury Lawyers 4U is a national network of specialist personal injury lawyers. We’ve dealt successfully with all kinds of road traffic accident claims including those involving fatalities. Injury Lawyers 4U is here to give you impartial advice about whether your claim is valid and guide you through the claims process every step of the way.
We operate on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis so there’s no risk in asking us to act for you. Call 0333 400 4445 today to speak to an expert legal adviser, or complete the short form on our website and we’ll call you back at a convenient time.
