Based on reporting by STV News, 20 October 2026. All rights in the original report remain with the publisher.
What was reported
According to STV News, a four-vehicle collision on the A8 Glasgow Road near Newbridge, close to Edinburgh Airport, occurred on a Monday morning in early September 2026. Emergency services attended the scene, and a woman in her late 50s, who was driving one of the vehicles involved, was pronounced dead at the scene.
As reported by STV News, Police Scotland have confirmed that a man in his early 30s appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court charged with causing death by dangerous driving, along with additional road traffic offences and a charge of attempting to pervert the course of justice. He was remanded in custody. Two women, aged 19 and 23, were also charged in connection with the incident and were released pending further enquiries. Reports are due to be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
STV News further reports that investigators are continuing to carry out work at the scene, with the westbound carriageway of the A8 between Edinburgh Airport and Newbridge Roundabout scheduled for a temporary closure to support those enquiries. The family of the woman who died have paid tribute to her, describing her as a beloved and warm-hearted person who will be greatly missed.
Road traffic accident claims in Scotland
When a person dies as a result of a road traffic collision, their close relatives may have the right to pursue a civil compensation claim, separate from and independent of any criminal proceedings that may take place. A criminal prosecution, if it proceeds, is brought by the Crown and is concerned with punishment. A civil claim is a private matter brought on behalf of the deceased's family and is concerned with financial recognition of the loss they have suffered.
In incidents of this kind, liability in a civil claim often rests with the driver or drivers whose actions caused or contributed to the collision. Where a vehicle is insured, as is required by law in the United Kingdom, the relevant insurer typically handles any civil compensation claim. In cases where a driver is uninsured or cannot be identified, the Motor Insurers' Bureau has a scheme that allows eligible claimants to seek compensation.
It is important to understand that the outcome of a criminal case does not automatically determine the outcome of a civil claim, and the two processes operate under different legal standards. A civil claim may proceed even if a criminal case has not yet concluded or has resulted in an acquittal.
Time limits
Under the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973, a civil compensation claim arising from a personal injury or death must generally be brought within three years of the date of the incident, or the date on which the person entitled to claim became aware that they had a claim. For fatal accident claims brought by relatives under the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011, the same three-year period typically applies, running from the date of death.
There is no obligation on families to act immediately, and it is entirely understandable that those who have suffered a bereavement need time before they feel ready to consider legal options. However, it is advisable not to leave matters too close to the time limit, as gathering evidence and building a case takes time. In certain limited circumstances, such as where a claimant lacks legal capacity, the court may exercise discretion over the time limit, but this cannot be relied upon and specialist advice should be sought.
What compensation can cover
Under the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011, certain close relatives of a person who has died as a result of another party's negligence or wrongdoing may be entitled to bring a claim. The categories of loss that can be covered include the following.
- Loss of support: Where the deceased provided financial support to a spouse, partner, child or other dependant, the value of that support can be claimed for the period over which it would have continued.
- Loss of society and guidance: This reflects the non-financial impact of losing a loved one, including the loss of their companionship, guidance and practical assistance in daily life.
- Grief and distress: Scots law recognises an award for the grief, sorrow and distress suffered by close relatives as a direct result of the bereavement. This is known as a grief award.
- Funeral costs: Reasonable funeral expenses incurred by the family may be recovered as part of a claim.
- Services: If the deceased provided services within the household, such as childcare or household tasks, the cost of replacing those services may be recoverable.
Relatives who are eligible to claim under the 2011 Act include a spouse or civil partner, a cohabiting partner, children, parents and siblings, among others. The precise entitlement of each relative depends on the nature of their relationship with the deceased and the circumstances of the case.
Legal fees in a claim of this kind are not deducted from the compensation received.
Frequently asked questions
Can a family bring a civil claim while a criminal case is ongoing?
Yes. A civil compensation claim and a criminal prosecution are entirely separate legal processes. It is common for civil claims to be investigated and, in some cases, settled while criminal proceedings are still under way. A solicitor can advise on the appropriate timing, taking into account the circumstances of the case.
Who pays compensation if the driver is convicted of a road traffic offence?
In most road traffic cases, civil compensation is paid by the at-fault driver's motor insurer rather than the individual directly. If the driver was uninsured or fled the scene, the Motor Insurers' Bureau may be able to assist eligible claimants. A specialist solicitor can identify the correct route for any claim.
What relatives are entitled to claim under the Damages (Scotland) Act 2011?
The Act sets out a list of qualifying relatives, which includes a spouse, civil partner or cohabiting partner, children, parents, siblings and certain other close family members. Each qualifying relative may be entitled to their own award, depending on the nature of their relationship with the person who died.
Does a family have to wait until the criminal case is finished before making a claim?
There is no legal requirement to wait. However, evidence that emerges during criminal proceedings can sometimes be relevant to a civil claim, and a solicitor will consider the best approach in light of all the circumstances. The key point is to be mindful of the three-year time limit under the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973.
Is there any financial risk in bringing a claim?
Many personal injury and fatal accident solicitors in Scotland act on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning that if a claim is unsuccessful, the claimant does not pay legal fees. Families should ask their solicitor at the outset to explain clearly how costs are handled so they can make an informed decision.
Based on reporting by STV News, 20 October 2026. All rights in the original report remain with the publisher.