Definition

Noun An accident that results in the death of one or more people.

Usage

The term "fatal accident" is used to describe an unexpected and unplanned event, typically involving vehicles, machinery, or other hazardous situations, which has the direct consequence of causing a fatality. It is a formal and specific term often used in official reports, news media, and legal contexts.

Examples

• The investigation concluded that the plane crash was a fatal accident caused by mechanical failure.
• Road safety campaigns aim to reduce the number of fatal accidents.
• The company was fined following a fatal accident at the construction site.

Advanced Usage

• "Fatal accident inquiry": A legal investigation or inquest held in some jurisdictions to determine the circumstances of a death caused by an accident.
  • A fatal accident inquiry will be held to examine the events leading to the collision.

Variants and Related Words

• Fatality (n): An instance of death resulting from an accident, war, or disaster.
  • The storm resulted in multiple fatalities.
• Accidental death (n): A death caused by an unintended and unexpected event. This is a broader term that encompasses fatal accidents.
• Deadly accident (n): A near-synonym, though slightly less formal than "fatal accident."

Synonyms

• Deadly accident
• Mortal accident (less common)
• Accident resulting in death

Antonyms

• Non-fatal accident
• Minor accident
• Near-miss

Related Phrases

• Fatal injury: An injury that causes death.
  • The driver sustained fatal injuries in the crash.
• Accident victim: A person harmed in an accident.
  • The fatal accident victims were identified by the authorities.

Noun

1. an accident that causes someone to die