Fatal Accident At Work Claims
We could help you start a fatal accident at work claim if you’ve lost a loved one in a workplace accident caused by employer negligence.
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Fatal Accident At Work Claims
We could help you start a fatal accident at work claim if you’ve lost a loved one in a workplace accident caused by employer negligence.
A fatal accident at work is a tragedy that no one should have to face, yet every year in the UK, dozens of families are left devastated by such incidents. In 2024-25 alone, 35 deaths resulted from falls from height, making up nearly 30% of all workplace fatalities, while being struck by moving vehicles and objects claimed even more lives. Despite strict safety regulations, two people a week still lose their lives in workplace accidents across the country.
This guide explains the most common causes of fatal accidents at work, highlights your rights, and outlines what steps you can take if you or someone you love has been affected. You’ll find clear advice on what to do next, whether you’re seeking support, information, or justice.
To learn more about how to protect yourself and your colleagues, keep reading or get in touch by calling 0330 043 2925 or completing our Contact Us form.
We Can Help With All Types Of Accidents
Whether you’ve suffered an injury in an accident at work, because of medical negligence or you’ve been involved in a car crash, we are here to help you seek compensation for your suffering.
Understanding Fatal Accidents at Work Claims
Fatal accident at work claims may arise when a worker dies due to someone else’s negligence or a breach of workplace safety laws, such as the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. Claims usually relate to incidents like falls from height, being struck by vehicles, or equipment failures. The claim is often made by close relatives or the estate of the deceased worker, aiming to secure financial support following the tragedy.
Compensation in these claims often covers:
General damages for pain and emotional suffering before death
Special damages, which might include funeral costs, lost earnings, and out-of-pocket expenses
The process could involve proving negligent actions by an employer or another party and demonstrating the impact on your family’s financial situation. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or the next steps, a member of our team can explain how a fatal injury claim could help you seek justice and compensation for a workplace death. Why not enquire today to discuss your circumstances with a specialist for free advice and support?
Common Causes of Fatal Workplace Accidents
Certain patterns frequently appear in workplace fatalities. Understanding these causes helps you assess whether you may have grounds for a fatal accident claim.
Human Error and Negligence
Human error or negligence contributes to many fatal accidents at work. Examples include:
Supervisors failing to ensure proper risk assessments are completed
Employers overlooking hazards by skipping regular safety checks
Inadequate training provided to workers on machinery or tasks
We are here to provide advice on whether you could be compensated following the loss of a loved one following an accident at work. Please contact us for more information.
Equipment Failure
Equipment failure remains a leading cause of work-related deaths. Faults can involve:
Machines not maintained or inspected as scheduled
Lack of safeguards on dangerous tools
Personal protective equipment (PPE) missing or inappropriate for the task
If equipment malfunction or absence of vital safety features contributed to a fatality, a solicitor from our panel could investigate whether you’re eligible to pursue a fatal accident claim. To learn more, please contact us for tailored support.
Unsafe Work Environments
Unsafe workplace conditions can increase the risk of fatal accidents. Risk factors include:
Inadequate signage warning of hazards such as wet floors or open edges
Poorly maintained premises with structural damage
Work areas not adhering to established safety standards
If you believe that your loved one’s death was caused by their employer’s negligence, please don’t hesitate to call. A specially trained advisor will review your case and explain your options on a no-obligation basis.
Industry Sectors Most at Risk
Certain industries experience a higher rate of workplace fatalities, often due to the nature of the tasks and exposure to hazards. Knowing where risks are highest can help you better understand potential causes of fatal accidents at work.
Construction
The construction sector consistently reports the most workplace fatalities in the UK, with 51 deaths recorded in 2023–24. Frequent risks include falls from height, being struck by vehicles or objects, and incidents involving moving machinery. These hazards tend to be more likely on construction sites that lack robust safety procedures. If a loved one has died in this sector, you could consider a fatal accident at work claim.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing reports 16 workplace fatalities in 2023–24. Heavy machinery, production lines, and hazardous materials are common dangers. Accidents such as machinery entrapment, contact with moving parts, or being struck by equipment may result in fatal injuries. If a fatal accident occurs, your family may explore a claim if negligence or a breach of workplace safety contributed.
Transport and Logistics
Transport and logistics remains a high-risk sector, with 11 deaths reported in 2023–24. Risks include collisions, being struck by moving vehicles, and accidents during loading or unloading. Many fatal incidents involve inadequate site controls or failure to implement vehicle safety systems.
Who Can Make A Fatal Accident At Work Claim?
The people who may start a fatal accident at work claim typically include those who relied on the deceased for financial or emotional support. Under the Fatal Accidents Act 1976, several categories of dependants could be eligible to claim, for example:
Spouses or civil partners, such as husbands, wives, or registered partners.
Children, including biological, stepchildren, or adopted children.
Parents or those treated as a parent by the deceased.
Anyone living with the deceased as spouse or civil partner for at least two years before the death.
Executors or administrators of the deceased’s estate could start a claim for the estate. Claims may also extend to relatives who can prove dependency on the deceased’s income or services.
If you’re unsure whether you may claim after a fatal workplace accident, please get in touch with a member of our team for specialist, free tailored support.
What Compensation Could Be Paid After A Fatal Workplace Accident?
Compensation after a fatal workplace accident could cover two main areas: the losses of the deceased’s estate and the financial impact on dependants. The Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1934 outlines how the deceased’s estate may claim for any pain, suffering and expenses, including medical costs and loss of earnings, from the date of the accident up to their death. Dependants could also claim compensation under the Fatal Accidents Act 1976 if they relied on the deceased for financial or practical support. This compensation may account for:
The deceased’s pain and emotional suffering
Loss of expected financial support for dependants, such as children or partners
Funeral expenses and other out-of-pocket costs linked directly to the fatal workplace injury
Loss of services the deceased provided, for example childcare or household management
Bereavement damages, which are set by law at a specific amount in England and Wales
Compensation values vary with the circumstances of each case, the deceased’s earnings, and the extent of dependency. To discuss the next steps in a fatal accident claim, you could speak to a member of our team for confidential advice and information.
We Can Help You Get The Compensation And Justice You're Entitled To
We Can Help You Get The Compensation And Justice You're Entitled To
Time Limits That Apply When Claiming For A Fatal Accident At Work
Time limits for making a fatal accident at work claim usually follow the three-year period set by the Limitation Act 1980. This window typically starts from either the date of death or the date of knowledge—whichever comes later. The date of knowledge refers to when you first become aware that negligence may have contributed to your loved one’s death, such as the conclusion of a post-mortem or coroner’s inquest.
Some exceptions could apply:
If a coroner’s investigation finds the cause of death later, the three years may count from the end of the inquest
If you’re a dependant or executor not aware of possible negligence at the time of death, time could start from when you discover it
A fatal accident claim might not proceed if the deadline passes unless an exception applies. Please ask a member of our team about time limits for a fatal injury claim and how they could relate specifically to your situation.
Call Today For Free Advice On Fatal Workplace Accident Claims
We understand how difficult it might be for you to discuss the loss of a loved one following an accident at work. For that reason, our specialists are trained to handle calls compassionately. There’s no pressure to act upon their advice but, if you do get in touch, your case will be assessed, and you’ll receive free legal advice about your options.
If you’d like to start a fatal accident at work claim or have any questions, you can get in touch by calling 0330 043 2925 or completing our Contact Us form.
Contact Us
If you’d like to enquire to see if you can make a compensation claim, please complete the form here. We’ll get back in touch with you as soon as we can.
