These cases can be complicated and emotionally difficult for grieving families.

The law in this area is gradually evolving but does not always recognise the trauma and financial hardship caused by the death of a family member. 

For instance, there is a statutory fixed sum (of £11,800)  for bereavement which is payable by the person who negligently caused the death (or his insurer) only to fixed classes of Claimant, including husbands, wives and children. But children of a deceased parent, the parents of a deceased adult and more distant relatives are not entitled to recover compensation, however close in reality their relationship was with the deceased.

Someone who was financially dependent upon  the deceased may be entitled to recover damages for the loss of that dependency. The class of people entitled to make a dependency claim is wider than for the bereavement award, and includes former spouses and civil partners,  but in all cases the dependency has to be proved by evidence.

How do I start my claim?

Contact Wendy Wright on 020 7681 8671 or by e-mail to wendywright@osbornes.net. Or Stuart Kightley on 020 7681 8672 or by e-mail to stuartkightley@osbornes.net

We will then discuss the case with you over the phone and if you have a claim we will arrange a free initial interview either here or at your home.

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