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Fatal Accident Claims

Fatal accident claims and support for bereaved families

Losing a loved one is devastating, and the impact is often even more difficult when the death was caused by an accident or negligence that should not have happened. Alongside grief, families are often left facing financial uncertainty, unanswered questions, and a need to understand what went wrong.

A fatal accident claim cannot undo the loss, but it can provide financial support and help bring clarity and accountability. In some cases, it can also help ensure that lessons are learned and similar incidents are prevented in the future.

These claims may arise from a range of situations, including road traffic accidents, workplace incidents, medical negligence, or accidents in public places. Each case is different, and understanding what happened and who may be responsible is an important first step.

At Ellis-Fermor & Negus, we support families through the process of bringing a fatal accident claim with care and sensitivity. We provide clear guidance on what can be claimed, how the process works, and what evidence may be needed.

We handle the legal aspects on behalf of families so they can focus on what matters most during a difficult time. This includes investigating the circumstances of the death, advising on eligibility to claim, and dealing with insurers or other parties involved.

Our approach is to combine clear legal advice with practical support, ensuring families are kept informed at every stage without being overwhelmed by legal detail.

Our goal is to help families seek answers, secure financial stability where possible, and move forward with support and clarity.

 

Have a question? Jump to our FAQs ↓

 

A solicitor from Ellis-Fermor & Negus engaging in a client consultation at their office in the East Midlands, providing legal advice.

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0115 972 5222 (Long Eaton)

0115 896 3390 (West Bridgford)

0115 922 1591 (Beeston)

01773 821665 (Belper)

01773 744744 (Ripley)

infomation@ellis-fermor.co.uk

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A professional solicitor from Ellis-Fermor & Negus, an East Midlands law firm, wearing a dark suit and striped tie, posing against a neutral background.

Ben provided me with excellent advice and dealt with my matter swiftly and efficiently.

Ben Bourne

Director and Solicitor

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Why Choose Ellis-Fermor & Negus for Fatal Accident Claims?

Funding Options Available

Many fatal accident claims can be funded on a no-win, no-fee basis, subject to suitability.

Experience in Sensitive Claims

We have extensive experience handling fatal accident claims with care, discretion and professionalism.

Clear, Compassionate Advice

We explain complex legal issues in plain English and proceed at a pace that feels right for you.

Our team has a strong track record of achieving substantial compensation rewards.

Robust Representation

While sensitive, we are firm when protecting your family’s interests

Contact our team today to explore your options with no obligation

Meet the team

Ben Bourne

Ben Bourne is one of our directors and works within our Commercial Litigation and Charity Law departments. Ben is a member of the Charity Law Association and has also served on a number of Charity Trustee Boards.

01159 221 591

b.bourne@ellis-fermor.co.uk

Ben Bourne is based at our Beeston Office.

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Close-up portrait of a professional solicitor from Ellis-Fermor & Negus, showcasing approachable legal expertise in East Midlands.

Claire Bristol

Claire has specialised in Personal Injury and Debt Collection for over 20 years. Claire attended Sheffield University where she obtained a BA Hons in Medieval & Modern History. After working as an Insurance broker and obtaining Insurance qualifications, Claire gained employment as a trainee Legal Executive and qualified as a Legal Executive in 1994 (known…

01773 744 744

c.bristol@ellis-fermor.co.uk

Claire Bristol is based at our Ripley Office.

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Charlotte Price

Charlotte qualified as a Solicitor in 2025 having joined the firm as a trainee in 2023. Prior to that, she studied LLB Law at the University of Nottingham, graduating in 2022 with a first. She then completed the LLM Legal Practice Course at Nottingham Law School. Charlotte provides advice on a range of civil disputes…

0115 972 5222

Charlotte.Price@ellis-fermor.co.uk

Charlotte Price is based at our Long Eaton Office.

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Solicitors discussing legal matters during a consultation at Ellis-Fermor & Negus in Beeston

Reviews, what our clients are saying…

‘We met Tim Jones at a very anxious time for us …..he was kind and caring going the extra mile to ease our concerns. Tim was very knowledgeable and professional. Tim kept us updated at all times during the process… his advice was always sensible .Tim was very approachable ..we would highly recommend Tim and will use him again we trust him …’

‘Darren, Sarah and the team were incredible – so supportive and understanding throughout the process. This was my first experience requiring a solicitor of this nature, and they took the time to explain the steps clearly and answer all my (many) questions. They always answer the phone first time, respond to emails quickly and handled the whole situation very swiftly, professionally and with care, with a positive result at the end. Thank you so much Darren, Sarah and team!’

‘Ben provided me with some excellent advice and dealt with my matter swiftly and efficiently. His friendly but professional manner and the way he described and explained the various clauses gave me the confidence that I needed to sign the documentation without hesitation. Thanks also goes to Eliza for making the necessary arrangements and keeping me informed.’

‘EF&N responded to my initial enquiry very diligently and quickly. That level of service continued through to closing out the matter. We are very satisfied with the service provided by Darren Kelly and his team. Lines of communication were clear. The EFN team were easy to contact and responded to correspondence quickly. EFN will be our ‘go to’ firm of solicitors for all legal matters in future. Many thanks.’

‘Tim jones, acted quickly and made sure to give me time of day even with my busy schedule. Tim made things super easy to understand. Will definitely use again if needed, and recommend Tim, thankyou.’

FAQ

A fatal accident claim is a legal claim brought following a death caused by someone else’s negligence or breach of duty. These claims are usually brought under:

  • The Fatal Accidents Act 1976
  • The Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1934

Different elements of compensation may be claimed depending on who brings the claim and the circumstances of the death.

Fatal accident claims are complex and emotionally difficult. Having experienced legal support can make a significant difference.

Fatal accident claims may be brought by:

  • The Executor or Administrator of the estate
  • A spouse or civil partner
  • A cohabiting partner
  • Children, including adult children
  • Other dependents who relied financially on the deceased

 

Fatal Road Traffic Accidents

  • Car, motorcycle and cycling accidents
  • Pedestrian fatalities
  • Hit-and-run incidents

Fatal Workplace Accidents

  • Construction site fatalities
  • Machinery and industrial accidents
  • Falls from height
  • Exposure to hazardous substances

Fatal Slips and Trips

  • Falls in public places
  • Accidents in care homes or residential settings

Fatal Medical or Care-Related Incidents

  • Failures in care environments
  • Negligent supervision

Other Fatal Accidents

  • Defective products
  • Public liability incidents

Fatal accident compensation may include several elements.

Bereavement Damages

  • A statutory bereavement award may be available to certain close relatives.

Dependency Claims

  • Compensation for loss of financial support previously provided by the deceased, including:
    • Income
    • Pensions
    • Benefits

Loss of Services

  • Compensation for the value of services the deceased provided, such as childcare, household tasks and care.

Funeral Expenses

  • Reasonable funeral costs can usually be recovered.

Pain and Suffering (Estate Claim)

  • Compensation for any pain and suffering experienced by the deceased prior to death. We carefully assess all potential heads of loss to ensure nothing is overlooked.

Families often want clarity about what happens next. We provide a structured, supportive process.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Step 2: Investigation

Step 3: Establishing Liability

Step 4: Valuing the Claim

Step 5: Negotiation and Settlement

Step 6: Court Proceedings (If Necessary)

Timescales vary depending on complexity:

  • Straightforward liability cases: 12-18 months
  • Complex dependency claims: 18-36 months

We prioritise early clarity and keep families fully informed throughout.

Yes. Most claims must be started within three years of the date of death or knowledge of negligence.

Most fatal accident claims settle without court proceedings.

Yes. Different elements of the claim may be brought by different parties.

Compensation may be reduced, but a claim can still succeed.

We aim to minimize stress by handling matters sensitively and efficiently.

Yes. We will progress matters carefully and with respect for your circumstances.

Speak to a Fatal Accident Solicitor Today

If you have lost a loved one due to an accident that was not their fault, early legal advice can help protect your family’s future.

Call: 0115 922 1591 • Email: ben.bourne@ellis-fermor.co.uk • Online enquiry: ellis-fermor.co.uk/contact-us

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