Lawyers acting for Bond Helicopters have agreed to begin making interim payments to victims of the Clutha tragedy. Thompsons Solicitors who are representing over 50 victims have welcomed the move which will help their clients cover loss of salary while full compensation is agreed. Many victims have been unable to work since the accident and have incurred significant loss of earnings.
Thompsons have a Serious Injury and Fatal Injuries Unit specifically set up to deal with fatal and catastrophic injury incidents like the Clutha tragedy and they began sending letters and intimating claims to the representatives of Bond Air Services at the beginning of December 2013.
The Claims are being bought under Section 76 of the Civil Aviation Act 1982. This states that where material loss or damage is caused to any person or property on land by an aircraft while in flight the owners of that aircraft are strictly liable.
The solicitors representing Bond Air Services accept that Bond is governed by Section 76 of the Civil Aviation Act and as a result they are liable for the losses suffered by those killed or injured in the Clutha bar.
Hannah Bennett, a lawyer with Thompson’s Clutha legal team, said “The commencement of interim payments from Bond Helicopters to Clutha victims is a very significant milestone and is welcomed. Many of our clients are suffering from ongoing physical and psychological symptoms as a result of their involvement in this tragic and life changing event. The last thing our clients need right now is concern over financial issues. Securing the payment of interim compensation from Bond will help address these financial concerns while we work towards securing our clients a full award of compensation. It is our job to support our clients through these difficult times. Our legal team are completely focused on putting in place the financial and medical support our clients need as quickly as possible. As well as negotiating interim payments we are employing the services of medical experts to help with their recovery.”
BBC News Article : Glasgow helicopter crash: Payments to Clutha victims
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