What Should Happen After an Accidental Military Death?
There are several important steps that should happen if your loved one has died because the Ministry of Defence (MoD) didn’t do enough to keep them safe.
Ministry of Defence Investigation
Firstly, the MoD should conduct its own investigation into what happened if a serviceman or woman died in a military accident.
A Board of Inquiry may also be set up, as this can shine a spotlight on what mistakes led to the tragic death and how similar incidents can be avoided in the future.
These steps can not only help provide a sense of closure and resolution for the loved ones who are left behind, but also encourage the MoD to make any changes that are needed to make conditions safer for service personnel.
Health and Safety Executive Investigation
If an employee dies at work, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will look into what’s happened, and that’s no different when it comes to military deaths.
Any work related fatalities must be reported to the HSE, so it can carry out a detailed investigation and report on its findings.
Inquest
An inquest is carried out in any instance where a person’s death is either unnatural or potentially suspicious.
So if a serviceman or woman passed away because of potential negligence by their employer, the cause of death must be confirmed beyond any doubt.
We should stress that an inquest isn’t a Trial, so the MoD can’t be found guilty and punished if the Coroner rules they were responsible for your loved one’s death.
The findings of the MoD’s and the HSE’s investigations will probably form part of the inquest, and help to determine what cause of death is listed on the death certificate.
The evidence brought up in these various investigations can also form a part of any future compensation claim against the MoD.
If you have any questions about claiming compensation if a loved one has died in a military accident, or about navigating the inquest process, please get in touch with our specialist Military Claims Solicitors.