Road Traffic Accidents
Road traffic accident claim information
Road collisions can affect drivers, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians. Explore general information about potential claims, evidence and recovery; seek independent advice about your situation.
General information only · Not legal advice
What is a road traffic accident claim?
An RTA claim is a personal injury claim against the driver (and ultimately the insurer) of a vehicle whose negligence caused your injuries. It can also include claims against the Motor Insurers' Bureau where the other driver was uninsured or has fled the scene.
Claims cover injuries to drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians. They can include vehicle damage, hire car costs, lost earnings and medical bills as well as compensation for pain and suffering.
Following the Whiplash Reform Programme, minor whiplash claims valued under £5,000 are processed through the Official Injury Claim portal. The portal and an independent solicitor can provide information about the process and additional injuries or losses outside the tariff.
Common road accident claim types
- Rear-end shunts and motorway collisions
- Junction and roundabout accidents
- Uninsured and hit-and-run drivers (MIB)
- Motorcycle accidents
- Cycling accidents and dooring claims
- Pedestrian and crossing accidents
- Passenger claims (taxi, bus, ride-share)
- Whiplash and serious spinal injuries
Common stages of a road accident claim
Notify and gather evidence
An instructed solicitor may contact insurers and obtain police reports and dashcam evidence. Vehicle hire costs require individual assessment.
Treatment and rehabilitation
Medical professionals can advise on treatment and rehabilitation. An instructed solicitor may discuss associated costs and funding.
Full and final settlement
Once the medical prognosis is clear, an instructed solicitor can value potential losses and discuss settlement options.
A note on time limits
You have three years from the date of the accident to start a claim. For children, the three years runs from their 18th birthday. Don't delay — early evidence makes a stronger case.
Frequently asked questions
I was a passenger — can I still claim?
Yes. As a passenger you're almost always entitled to compensation, whether the driver of your vehicle or another road user was at fault. You can claim even if the driver was a friend or family member.
The other driver was uninsured or fled — can I claim?
Yes. The Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB) compensates victims of uninsured and untraced drivers. An independent solicitor can explain MIB eligibility and procedures.
How does whiplash compensation work?
Whiplash and minor soft-tissue injuries lasting up to two years are now valued using a fixed tariff set by the Whiplash Reform Programme. An independent solicitor can explain categorisation and the treatment of additional injuries or losses.
What if I was a cyclist or pedestrian?
Cyclists and pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users and the law tends to reflect that. An independent solicitor can explain how liability and injury severity affect a potential claim.
How long will my claim take?
Straightforward soft-tissue claims often settle within a few months. More serious injury claims take longer because the medical position may need to stabilise before valuing the claim accurately. Interim payments can be obtained along the way.
Related information
Informational website · Not a law firm
Questions about this website?
Contact us about our information. We do not provide legal advice, assess claims or represent clients. Consult a qualified solicitor for advice about your circumstances.