Fatal Accident Claims in Scotland

Support for families who have lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence. The specialist Scottish solicitors we work with handle these claims with the compassion and expertise they deserve.

What a fatal accident claim covers

Losing a family member is devastating, and when that loss was caused by someone else’s negligence, families have the right to seek compensation under Scots law. The specialist Scottish solicitors we work with handle these claims with the compassion and sensitivity they deserve, and can guide you through the process at your own pace.

What you could be owed

A claim could cover:

  • Loss of support — the financial contribution your loved one made to the family
  • Loss of services — household tasks, childcare, and guidance they provided
  • Distress and grief — recognition of the emotional impact on qualifying relatives
  • Funeral expenses — reasonable costs of the funeral and related expenses

What you could receive depends on your circumstances.

Who can claim

Under the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011, “qualifying relatives” who may be able to claim include:

  • Spouse, civil partner or long-term partner
  • Children (including stepchildren)
  • Parents and grandparents
  • Siblings

The executor of the deceased’s estate can also bring a claim on behalf of the estate.

How it works

  1. Tell us what happened — answer a few questions about the circumstances when you’re ready
  2. We connect you with Scottish specialists — we pass your details to regulated Scottish solicitors who handle fatal claims with care
  3. They take it forward — if there’s a case, they pursue your claim under Scots law

Claims are typically handled on a no win, no fee basis — a speculative fee agreement — so you’re not taking on the financial risk. There’s no pressure and no obligation.

Frequently asked questions

Who can make a fatal accident claim in Scotland?
Qualifying relatives under the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011 — including spouse/partner, children, parents and siblings — or the deceased's executor on behalf of the estate.
What compensation is available?
Claims can include loss of financial support, loss of personal services, distress and grief, funeral expenses, and the deceased's own claim (transmitted to the estate).
How long do we have to make a claim?
Generally three years from the date of death, or from when you became aware the death was caused by another's negligence.

Related

Ready to check your claim?

Use our free, no-obligation claim check and a specialist Scottish solicitor will review your circumstances.

Check if you can claim