- What Is a Road Traffic Accident Claim? A road traffic accident (RTA) claim is a legal process that allows victims of vehicle collisions to seek compensation for their injuries, losses, and damages. Whether you were a driver, passenger, cyclist, motorcyclist, or pedestrian, you may be eligible to make a claim if the accident wasn’t your fault.
- Who Can Make a Road Traffic Accident Claim?
- Drivers of vehicles (cars, vans, taxis, motorcycles)
- Passengers in private or public transport
- Pedestrians injured in a road collision
- Cyclists or e-scooter users hit by a vehicle
- Children (claims made by parents or guardians)
- What Can You Claim For After a Road Traffic Accident?
- Physical injuries: whiplash, fractures, head trauma, spinal injuries
- Psychological harm: anxiety, PTSD, shock
- Loss of earnings: from missed work
- Medical and treatment costs: including rehab and prescriptions
- Damage to vehicle or property
- Care and travel expenses
- Future financial losses: if unable to return to work
- How to Make a Road Traffic Accident Claim
- Report the accident to police and your insurer
- Gather evidence (photos, witness info, medical records)
- Contact a road traffic accident solicitor
- Your solicitor will handle the claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer
- Negotiate a settlement or proceed to court if necessary
- Time Limit for Making a Claim in the UK You have 3 years from the date of the accident or from when you first became aware of your injury. Exceptions include:
- Children: until they turn 21
- Mental incapacity: time limit may pause
- Fatal cases: 3 years from the date of death or knowledge of negligence
- Do You Need to See a Doctor? Yes. Medical documentation is crucial. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention as soon as possible. It will support your claim and protect your health.
- Can You Claim If You Were a Passenger or Pedestrian? Absolutely. Passengers and pedestrians are frequently successful in claims because they are rarely at fault. You can claim regardless of who caused the accident.
- Compensation Amounts for Road Traffic Accidents Example injury compensation ranges:
- Minor whiplash: £240 – £4,215
- Moderate neck/back injury: £7,000 – £35,000
- Serious head injury: £40,000 – £200,000+
- Loss of limb or severe trauma: £80,000 – £300,000
- PTSD or psychological harm: £3,000 – £100,000 depending on severity
- No Win No Fee Road Traffic Accident Claims Most solicitors offer No Win No Fee agreements, meaning:
- No legal fees upfront
- You pay nothing if the case is unsuccessful
- If you win, the solicitor takes a pre-agreed percentage (up to 25%) from the compensation
- Risk-free access to justice
- What Happens If the Other Driver Is Uninsured or Untraceable?
You can still claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) if:
- The driver fled the scene (hit-and-run)
- The driver has no insurance
- The vehicle is unregistered or unknown
- Do All Claims Go to Court?
No. Over 95% of road traffic accident claims settle without going to court. Legal proceedings are only necessary if:
- Liability is disputed
- The insurer offers an unfairly low settlement
- Deadlines are approaching and action is needed
- Can You Claim for a Car Accident That Happened Abroad?
Yes. If the accident involved a UK resident and vehicle, you may still claim under UK law or via international agreements, depending on the location.
- What to Bring to Your Solicitor
- Police reports
- Photographs of injuries and vehicle damage
- Medical documents
- Witness details
- Insurance and vehicle details
- Expense receipts and proof of lost earnings
- How Long Does a Road Traffic Accident Claim Take?
- Minor injuries: 3–6 months
- Moderate injuries: 6–12 months
- Serious or complex cases: 12–24 months or more
Delays may occur if long-term injuries need full medical assessment or if liability is disputed.
- Choosing the Right Solicitor
- Choose a solicitor who specialises in road traffic accident claims
- Look for a No Win No Fee option
- Read reviews and success stories
- Check their responsiveness and communication
- Ask about past experience with cases like yours
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a solicitor to make a road traffic accident claim?
While you can claim directly, a solicitor improves your chance of success and maximises your compensation. - Can I claim if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?
Yes, but your compensation may be reduced due to contributory negligence. - What if the accident was partly my fault?
You may still receive partial compensation based on shared liability. - Is there a minimum injury value for claims?
No. All injuries are considered, though minor cases are handled through a fixed tariff system. - Can I claim for stress or anxiety after an accident?
Yes, psychological injuries are compensable with appropriate medical evidence. - Will making a claim affect my insurance?
Possibly, but this depends on fault and your insurer’s policy.
Conclusion
Road traffic accident claims in the UK are designed to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Whether you suffered a minor whiplash or a serious injury, it’s your legal right to seek compensation. With expert legal guidance and No Win No Fee options, the process is accessible, fair, and focused on your recovery.
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