The sudden and unexpected death of a loved one following an accident can be devastating for families. Where a death has occurred as a result of a fatal injury in Ireland, families may have questions about what happened, whether another person or organisation was responsible, and whether they may be entitled to compensation.
At Kerrigan Solicitors, we understand that pursuing legal action following the death of a loved one can be particularly difficult. We can provide advice on fatal accident claims in Ireland, including the role of a Coroner’s inquest and the steps involved in pursuing a case.
What is a Coroner’s inquest?
A Coroner is an independent public official responsible for investigating certain sudden, violent or unexplained deaths. Where appropriate, the Coroner may arrange a post-mortem examination and an inquest to establish the circumstances surrounding the death.
A Coroner’s inquest in Ireland is a public inquiry into matters including the identity of the deceased and how, when and where the death occurred. Depending on the circumstances, a jury may also be involved.
Deaths resulting from accidents, including certain road traffic accidents and workplace accidents, may need to be reported to the Coroner.
Does a Coroner’s inquest determine who was responsible?
It is important to understand that a Coroner’s inquest does not usually determine civil or criminal liability. Its purpose is to investigate the circumstances of the death rather than to decide whether a particular person or organisation is legally liable for compensation.
However, information arising from an inquest may be relevant when a family is considering a fatal injury claim. Depending on the circumstances, reports, evidence and other documentation may assist a solicitor in understanding how the accident occurred and what further investigations may be required.
Fatal accident claims and compensation in Ireland
If a person dies as a result of another party’s negligence or wrongdoing, certain family members or dependants may potentially have a right to bring a fatal accident claim in Ireland.
Fatal injury cases can arise from a range of circumstances, including road traffic accidents, workplace accidents, accidents in public places and other incidents involving alleged negligence.
The nature of any potential claim will depend on the individual circumstances. Evidence may be required to establish what happened, who may have been responsible and the losses suffered by eligible family members or dependants.
The Injuries Resolution Board provides a process for certain personal injury claims, including claims made on behalf of a person who was fatally injured. A specific Fatal Accident Application Form is used in such circumstances.
Why obtain legal advice following a fatal injury?
A fatal injury claim can involve complex legal and factual issues, particularly where a Coroner’s inquest, Garda investigation or other investigation is taking place.
An experienced fatal accident solicitor in Ireland can advise you about the evidence that may be required, the potential parties involved and the applicable legal procedures and time limits.
At Kerrigan Solicitors, we approach fatal injury cases with sensitivity and care. We can explain the fatal accident claims process in Ireland, discuss the role of the Coroner’s inquest and advise you on your legal options.
If you have lost a loved one following a fatal accident, obtaining legal advice at an early stage can help ensure that important evidence is identified and relevant deadlines are considered.
Contact us now for further advice at 091 820630, by email at m.kerrigan@kerrigansolicitors.ie or visit our website at kerrigansolicitors.ie.
We meet with clients throughout Ireland, including in counties such as Mayo, Roscommon, Westmeath, Galway, Clare and Limerick.