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15 August 2026
By Simon Flower
Dependency Claims – Help Following the Loss of a Loved One in a Car Accident
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The death of a loved one in a motor vehicle accident can have a devastating emotional and financial impact on those left behind. If you were financially dependent on a parent or another close family member who died as a result of a motor vehicle collision, you may be entitled to make a Dependency Claim for the financial losses arising from that dependency.
What Is a Dependency Claim?
A Dependency Claim allows certain family members to seek compensation for the financial support they have lost following the death of a loved one.
If your parent or close family member was involved in a motor vehicle accident and lost their life, you should seek legal advice to determine whether you were financially dependent on them. If you were, you may be entitled to claim compensation for pecuniary losses under Part V of the Civil Liability Act 1936.
Who Can Make a Dependency Claim?
Whether you can make a Dependency Claim will depend on your individual circumstances and the nature of the financial support provided by the deceased.
Obtaining legal advice early can help you understand your rights and assess whether you have a valid claim.
What Time Limits Apply to a Dependency Claim?
There are important time limits that apply to a Dependency Claim under Part V of the Civil Liability Act 1936.
Failing to take action within the required timeframe may affect your ability to pursue compensation. For this reason, we strongly recommend seeking legal advice as soon as possible following the loss of a loved one.
What Documents Should You Keep to Support a Dependency Claim?
A successful Dependency Claim often relies on evidence demonstrating the financial support that was provided by the deceased. It is important to retain any documents that may assist in establishing the financial support previously provided by your loved one. While it may be tempting to dispose of paperwork during a difficult time, these records can be critical evidence in a Dependency Claim.
Documents that may assist in supporting a claim include:
- Bank statements;
- Tax returns;
- Payslips;
- Funeral expenses and invoices; and
- Bills for services that were previously paid by the deceased, including gas, electricity, council rates, water rates, insurance, home internet, renovations, furniture, and the like.
How Can Andersons Help?
Losing a loved one in a motor vehicle accident is an incredibly difficult experience. If you believe you were financially dependent on a parent or family member who has died as a result of a motor vehicle accident, obtaining legal advice early can help you understand your rights and entitlements.
Here at Andersons, we can assess your circumstances, explain the Dependency Claim process, and help you gather the evidence needed to support your claim. To contact our experienced team, call us on 8238 6666 or, alternatively, send your enquiry using our online Contact Form
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