If you have been hurt in a road accident in the UK, you may be able to make a road traffic accident claim. It helps you get fair compensation for your pain, suffering, and financial losses.
What Is a Road Traffic Accident Claim?
A road traffic accident happens when cars, bikes, or other vehicles crash on the road.
If another person’s mistake caused the accident, you can make an accident claim.
Anyone can claim — drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Common causes include speeding, using a phone while driving, or poor road conditions.
Each case depends on who was at fault and how serious the injuries are.
Can I Claim After a Road Traffic Accident?
You can claim if:
- Someone else caused the accident.
- You suffered a physical or mental injury.
- The accident happened within the last three years.
If the other driver has no insurance or cannot be found, you can still claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB).
You may also claim if you were partly responsible — your compensation might just be reduced.
Types of Road Traffic Accident Claims
There are many traffic accident claim types in the UK:
- Car accident claims – for drivers and passengers.
- Motorcycle accident claims – often involve severe injuries.
- Cyclist and pedestrian claims – common in city areas.
- Soft-tissue injury or whiplash claims – for neck and shoulder pain.
Each type needs evidence such as photos, witness details, and medical reports.
What You Can Claim For
You can claim for both general and special damages:
- General damages: pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Special damages: medical bills, travel costs, and loss of earnings.
If your injury needs long-term care or rehabilitation, those costs can be included too.
How to Start Your Claim
Follow these steps to start your road traffic accident claim:
- Make sure everyone is safe and call emergency services if needed.
- Take photos of the vehicles and scene.
- Get driver and witness details.
- Report the accident to the police and your insurance company.
- See a doctor and keep all medical records.
- Speak to a solicitor to begin your claim.
Act quickly — evidence fades and time limits apply.
No Win, No Fee Road Traffic Accident Claims
Most UK solicitors offer no win, no fee service.
That means you only pay if your case wins.
It helps people claim without worrying about legal fees.
This agreement is called a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA).
Your solicitor takes a small percentage of your compensation as a success fee.
Compensation Amounts and Examples
The value of your traffic accident compensation depends on:
- How serious the injury is.
- How long recovery takes.
- How it affects your daily life.
Example guide amounts (based on UK guidelines):
- Minor whiplash (up to 3 months): ~ £275
- Moderate injury (6–12 months): £1,000 – £3,000
- Serious long-term injury: £10,000 – £50,000 or more
How Long Do Road Traffic Accident Claims Take?
Simple accident claims may finish in a few months.
More complex ones with serious injuries can take longer — sometimes over a year.
Delays often happen when medical treatment or liability is still being reviewed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving the scene before calling the police.
- Forgetting to collect witness or driver details.
- Saying “it was my fault” — even by mistake.
- Missing the 3-year claim deadline.
Always report the accident and get legal advice early.
Legal and Insurance Aspects in the UK
Every driver in the UK must have third-party insurance.
This covers injuries or damage caused to others.
Your solicitor and insurer will handle most of the process once your claim begins.
If no insurer is available, MIB will step in to help you get fair payment.
Road Traffic Accident Claim FAQs
Yes. You can still claim, but your compensation may be reduced.
It depends on injury type, recovery time, and impact on your life.
You can still claim if you start within three years of discovering the injury.