Families who lost loved ones in the 11 September attacks on the World Trade Centre can no longer apply for compensation from the US Congress-established Victim Compensation Fund, after the deadline for applications passed last night.

According to a report, more than 92% of the victims' families have claimed compensation from the fund, with a final rush of applications before the deadline expected to push that figure upwards.

A number of families have elected to fight for compensation through the courts instead of accepting compensation from the fund.

On average, the fund has paid out US$1.8m (£1.02m) tax free to each family, although amounts vary due to the victim's earning potential and other life insurance.

In return for compensation, the families give up their right to sue the US Government, airlines, airport security firms or the designers of the World Trade Centre for their alleged negligence.

According to the report, Mark Moller, the lawyer coordinating the legal claims from victims' families said between 60 and 100 families were likely to go ahead with lawsuits.

"They are more anxious for accountability than they are for a certain reward," he said.

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