Widow awarded record damages in fatal accident case

A jury yesterday made the highest award of civil damages for loss of society to the partner of a victim of a fatal accident in Scotland in the case of Claire Anderson and Others v Brig Brae Garage Limited.

Claire Anderson was the partner of Alexander “Sandy”Haining who died, aged 33, in an industrial accident at work in May 2012. Mr Haining worked at Brig Brae Garage in Bellshill.

The jury awarded Ms Anderson £140,000 for loss of society. The total amount of compensation awarded to Ms Anderson, the couple’s daughter and Mr Haining’s father was in excess of £550,000.

Digby Brown partner David Nellaney said: “The evidence showed Sandy was a loving partner, devoted father and loyal son.

“The awards represent the significant impact the loss of Sandy has had on each of his family members.

“No amount of money will compensate the family for the loss of Sandy but the compensation awarded by the jury will offer financial security for Sandy’s partner and young daughter in the future.”