Supporting a Family After a Fatal Road Traffic Collision
We have helped the family of a man who sadly died following a serious road traffic collision.
The case highlighted a difficult area of the law that many families are unaware of – that even after a tragic death, compensation available to the estate and loved ones can sometimes be very limited.
Our role was to guide the family through the legal process with sensitivity, while ensuring all available claims were fully investigated and pursued.
The Circumstances of the Collision
The man was travelling as a front seat passenger in a vehicle when the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to leave the road and collide with fencing.
It was alleged that the driver had been travelling too fast for the conditions and had failed to maintain proper control of the vehicle.
The passenger suffered catastrophic head and facial injuries. Although he was taken to hospital, medical evidence confirmed that his injuries were not survivable. He sadly died later the same day, having never regained consciousness following the collision.
The Legal Claim
A claim was brought on behalf of the estate and included recovery of funeral expenses and probate costs, the case ultimately settled for £7,000.
One of the most difficult aspects of the case for the family was the limited level of compensation available under the law. Because the medical evidence showed that the man never regained consciousness after the collision, the compensation recoverable for pain and suffering was very limited.
Why No Bereavement Damages Were Awarded
Many families understandably assume that compensation is automatically available for grief and loss following a death. However, bereavement damages can only be claimed by certain eligible relatives under a strict legal framework.
In this case, no bereavement award was available. There was also no dependency claim, as there was no one who was financially dependent on the man.
As a result, despite the devastating loss suffered by the family, the damages recoverable by the estate were modest. Cases such as this can leave families feeling that the law does not always properly reflect the emotional impact of losing a loved one.
How Oliver & Co Solicitors Can Help
Fatal accident claims are among the most sensitive cases a family can face. At Oliver & Co Solicitors, we understand that legal action cannot undo what has happened, but we can help families get answers, secure financial support where available, and guide them through the process with care and compassion.
Our specialist team has experience handling complex fatal accident and personal injury claims, including cases involving disputed liability, dependency claims, and bereavement damages.
If you would like confidential advice about a fatal accident claim, our team is here to help. Call us on 01244 312306, email us at law@oliverandco.co.uk or complete our Contact Form and we’ll get in touch with you.
