The rules and regulations that govern health and safety and personal injury law are largely identical across the UK. One area where the law in personal injury claims differs between Scotland, England and Wales and Northern Ireland is in relation to fatal accident claims. Stephanie Watson, solicitor at MSI's Scottish law member Thorntons, explains further.
The loss of a loved one is a devastating blow to any family especially when that loss is as a result of an accident and is sudden and unexpected. Family members are often left to deal with the resulting financial problems at a very difficult time. In England and Wales, the law is set down by The Fatal Accidents Act 1976 and the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1934.
The Fatal Accidents Act in England and Wales allows dependants to claim statutory damages resulting from the death of a close relative. Damages are presently capped at a maximum of £12,980. Bereavement damages can only be claimed in England and Wales by: