Here on Fatal Accident Claims, we have talked about the bereavement award for several years now. This is one of our most specialist areas and a common first step in achieving compensation following the death of a loved one. We have long debated that the award is unjust and offers a pitiful amount, but for those that can claim, it is at least better than nothing. The award can be really essential in helping loved ones come over a sudden death as well as any financial issues as a result of the death, and there are several public examples where this has been the case.
In this article, we provide details of two examples of bereavement award payouts that have helped families come to terms with their sad loss, as well as offering them support in a financial sense.
Two Teenage Girls Killed in a Car Crash
As reported by the Daily Mail in 2015, we worked on a tragic case in which two teenager girls died following a two-car crash. Megan Storey and Jordanna Goodwin, both aged 16, sadly died alongside three friends in Conisbrough, South Yorkshire, when their blue Toyota Corolla lost control and crashed into another vehicle. The deaths were ruled accidental and charges were dropped against a third driver due to a lack of evidence that they were at fault.
The mother’s of Megan and Jordanna each received a bereavement award payout, which at the time was £12,980. They were outraged at the injustice of the system and we helped them in launching an e-petition to change the law for the better.
Partner Died Following Infection
This is perhaps one of the most well-known bereavement award stories to appear in recent times due to what it led to. In October 2011, prison governor John Bulloch, aged 66, lost his life due to an infection. Mr Bulloch had undergone surgery to remove a benign tumour on his right foot. Following this, he picked up an infection from the surgery that had not been discovered by the medical professionals. His long-term partner, Jacqueline Smith, was not entitled to the bereavement award as, at the time, only spouses or civil partners could claim. Ms Smith challenged this in court, claiming that it was not compatible with the European Convention on Human Rights. The Court of Appeal ultimately ruled in her favour that cohabiting partners should have the same rights as spouses in relation to claiming for bereavement damages.
Technically, this story does not fit with the article’s theme of bereavement payout examples but nevertheless, it is one of the award’s most influential cases. While the law was amended, Ms Smith was not able to receive a payout as retrospective cases are not considered.
Make a Bereavement Claim
Do you think you may be eligible to pursue a bereavement claim? The bereavement award may sound complicated in terms of eligibility, but don’t let that scare you away. It is completely free to get in touch with us and there is no commitment required at this stage. Please feel free to begin your conversation with us today and one of our expert solicitors will be more than happy to let you know if you are eligible for a bereavement award or not. If you cannot claim for a bereavement award, rest assured that there are other compensation options available to you.
