Compensation to Relatives
Losing a family member is an absolutely terrible situation, and it is made all the worse if you were financially dependent upon them. If the death of your family member was caused by the negligent actions of another party, it may be possible for you to claim financial compensation.
Compensation can cover wage loss, superannuation, medical expenses and also funeral expenses.
Furthermore, if you have suffered a psychological injury as a result of the death of your loved one, in some circumstances you may also be able to make a claim for personal injury.
To find out if a compensation to relatives claim can be made, contact BDN Lawyers as soon as possible.
FAQ's
Eligible parties to a claim will usually include a spouse and children. Other relatives who can prove they were financially dependent may also be entitled to make a claim.
If there are multiple eligible parties, it is important to consider that only one compensation to relatives claim may be made. The compensation is then split proportionally amongst the eligible parties depending mostly on their level of dependence.
Compensation can be payable for loss of earnings, medical expenses, funeral expenses and also lost domestic assistance.
Firstly the probable earnings of the deceased needs to be calculated. Secondly, the individual levels of dependency of the eligible claimants need to be calculated. For instance, working out how many years a minor child will have been dependent upon their deceased parent, or how many hours per week of domestic assistance was provided by a deceased spouse.
Our Experts
Managing Partner (Canberra)
