Road Traffic Accident Claims

 

Updated June 2026

 

Road traffic accident claims help you to get your life back on track if you’ve been injured in an accident which wasn’t your fault. Essentially, you have the legal right to pursue personal injury compensation after a road traffic accident in England and Wales when someone else’s negligence caused your injuries

 

Whether you were driving, cycling, walking, or travelling as a passenger, the law protects you. When another road user fails to take reasonable care, you can make a road traffic accident claim to recover the financial losses and personal impact the accident caused.

 

What Counts as a Road Traffic Accident Claim?

 

According to the UK government website on reported road casualties for 2025, provisional results have indicated there were 1,556 fatalities and 29,920 killed or seriously injured (KSI) casualties. There were 127,870 casualties of all severities.

 

However, a road traffic accident claim arises when another road user breaches their duty of care and causes you injury. This includes drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, e‑scooter riders, pedestrians, and even passengers. If their actions, or failure to act, led to your injuries, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

 

Common scenarios include:

 

• Rear‑end collisions:  often caused by tailgating or distracted driving
• Side‑impact crashes: typically at junctions or roundabouts
• Pedestrian accidents: frequently involving speeding or failure to give way
• Cycling accidents: often due to close passing or dooring
• Motorcycle accidents: commonly caused by drivers failing to check mirrors
• Passenger injury claims: where you’re injured regardless of who was at fault

 

If negligence played a role, you can usually claim compensation for your injuries, financial losses, and the wider impact on your life.

 

Examples of Road Traffic Accident Claims

 

To help you understand what a valid claim looks like, here are some anonymised examples based on real‑world scenarios.

 

Example 1: Rear‑End Collision at Traffic Lights

Situation: Ahmed, a 42‑year‑old driver, stopped at a red light when another vehicle hit them from behind. Dashcam footage from a nearby taxi confirmed Ahmed was stationary.

 

Injuries: Soft-tissue injuries to lower back and shoulders, as well as mild concussion, and anxiety when having to drive again.

 

Outcome: The other driver admitted full liability with the dashcam footage confirming Ahmed’s account of the accident.

 

Example 2: Cyclist Hit by a Car Turning Left

Situation: Frank, 23 was cycling straight ahead when he was struck by a car turning left without indicating.

 

Injuries: Broken wrist, bruising, and damage to their bike.

 

Outcome: Frank claimed compensation for medical treatment, bike replacement, and ongoing rehabilitation.

 

Example 3: Pedestrian Knocked Down on a Zebra Crossing

Situation: Jean, 72 stepped onto a zebra crossing when a driver failed to stop.

 

Injuries: Fractured ankle and psychological trauma.

 

Outcome: Jean secured compensation for surgery, mobility aids, and long‑term emotional support.

 

Example 4: Passenger Injured in a Taxi Accident

Situation: Emma, 31 was a passenger in a taxi suffered injuries when another driver ran a red light.

 

Injuries: Fractured shoulder and lower back strain.

 

Outcome: The passenger made a claim against the at‑fault driver’s insurer and recovered loss of earnings and treatment costs.

 

These examples show how varied road traffic accident claims can be. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you may have a valid case.

 

What Can You Claim For After a Road Traffic Accident?

 

When you make a road traffic accident compensation claim, you can recover two main types of damages:

General damages: compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity

Special damages: financial losses such as:

 

• Medical treatment
• Rehabilitation and physiotherapy
• Loss of earnings
• Travel expenses
• Vehicle repair or replacement
• Care and support needs

 

As each case is unique, your solicitor will calculate the full value of your claim and ensure nothing is overlooked.

 

Why You Should Have a Personal Injury Lawyer on Your Side

While you can technically make a claim yourself, having a specialist personal injury solicitor dramatically improves your chances of success. Here’s why:

 

They Protect You From Insurance Tactics

Insurers often try to minimise payouts. A solicitor knows how to challenge low offers and negotiate a fair settlement for you.

 

They Gather Strong Evidence

A lawyer will obtain medical reports, witness statements, CCTV footage, dash‑cam evidence, and expert assessments to strengthen your case.

 

They Value Your Claim Accurately

Without legal expertise, many people underestimate the true value of their claim. A solicitor ensures you recover everything you’re entitled to.

 

They Handle the Entire Process

From paperwork to negotiations, your solicitor manages every step, allowing you to focus on recovery.

 

They Work on a No Win, No Fee Basis

We partner with solicitors who offer No Win No Fee agreements, meaning you pay nothing upfront and nothing if your claim is unsuccessful. They also offer a free, no-obligation consultation to assess your case and get your claim started.

 

Having a lawyer levels the playing field and ensures your rights are protected from start to finish.

 

How to Start Your Road Traffic Accident Claim

Here’s our easy-to-follow guide on how to get your claim started:

 

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention

Your health comes first and it’s important to seek medical help after an accident as injuries may only become apparent later. Medical records also form essential evidence.

 

Step 2: Report the Accident

Report it to the police if required and notify your insurer.

 

Step 3: Gather Evidence

Collect photos, dash‑cam footage, witness details, and receipts for expenses. Your solicitor can help you with this. But it helps to gather evidence from the scene immediately after the accident if possible.

 

Step 4: Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor

A solicitor will assess your case, explain your options, and guide you through the next steps.

 

Step 5: Begin Your Claim

Your solicitor will submit your claim to the at‑fault party’s insurer and negotiate on your behalf.

 

FAQs About Road Traffic Accident Claims

How long do I have to make a claim?

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to start your claim. Exceptions apply for children and those lacking mental capacity.

 

Do I need evidence to make a claim?

Evidence strengthens your case, but you can still claim even if you didn’t gather any at the scene. Your solicitor will help gather what’s needed.

 

What if the other driver was uninsured or fled the scene?

You may still claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). A solicitor can guide you through this process.

 

Can I claim if I was partly at fault?

Yes. You may still receive compensation, although the amount may be reduced based on your level of responsibility.

 

How long does a road traffic accident claim take?

Simple claims may settle in a few months. More complex cases involving serious injuries can take longer.

 

Will I need to go to court?

Most claims settle out of court. Only a small percentage require a hearing.

 

How much compensation will I receive?

The amount depends on your injuries, recovery time, financial losses, and long‑term impact. Your solicitor will provide a tailored estimate.

 

How We Can Help

Every year, thousands of people suffer injuries on roads across England and Wales. Many don’t realise they can claim compensation, or they feel overwhelmed by the process. You don’t need to navigate it alone.

 

It’s always advisable to start your claim early while evidence is still available and you’re within legal time limits.

 

We partner with highly experienced personal injury lawyers, so take the first step and contact our friendly team. They will arrange a free, no-obligation consultation to assess whether you have a claim.

 

Call us on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form.

 

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced with oversight by Michael Jefferies, Managing Director who has over 30 years’ legal experience.