The thought of losing a loved one in an accident is something which all of us dread. The heartache and despair created by such an event can be overwhelming. However, as reality settles back in some of us might consider taking legal action against those that were responsible for causing the accident.

Some people are reluctant or afraid to make a claim against a person or organisation. This is understandable as it is a step into the unknown. However, accident claims are perfectly justified if negligence or misconduct have in some way caused the death or injury of a human being.

While it is true that no amount of money can replace a loved one, for many people the financial implications of someone's untimely death can be huge. The hard realities of life are that bills must be paid even when the household's major breadwinner is not around to pay them. Accident claims can lead to victims' families being compensated. Often, it is this money which means a bereaved family doesn't not have to struggle unduly.

Families which suffer untimely deaths, particularly the passing of their main or sole provider, often have to cope with great hardships. Most of us can sympathise with the plight of a single parent who are forced to raise his or her children single-handedly following the sudden death of the other adult.

If that person was killed because of the incompetence or negligence, isn't the one left behind entitled to compensation? Also, making an accident claim may have the effect of preventing another person from coming into harm.

Wrongdoers can go unpunished, leaving them with the chance to hurt other people in the future. Accident claims can force them to amend their ways or prevent them from being in that position again.

Accidents that Can Lead to Claims

Fatal accidents can occur in a variety of situations and many of these can lead to accident claims. Workplace or occupational accidents, car accidents or road accidents, medical negligence, military accidents, aviation accidents and accidents abroad are the main types of scenarios which can lead to compensation claims.

Types of Legal Action

Accident claims can be made claim on behalf of the victim (even if that person is dead) and also for their dependents.

Victim's Claim

A claim can be made on behalf of the victim if they suffered emotional or physical pain or distress before they died. Further compensation can be sought on behalf of the victim if there was any subsequent financial loss. However, if the victim died instantly then no claim can be made.

Dependents' Claims

Family members who had been dependant on the victim for financial support can make claims for the loss of that money if there it was as a result of a wrongful or negligent act. The law permits a wide range of family members to make claims including children, grandchildren, parents or guardians, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles or the children of brothers, sisters, aunts or uncles, husbands, wives, former husbands or wives and cohabiters living as husband or wife for at least two years.