If you’ve been injured in a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault, you have the right to claim compensation.
Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, all motorists must hold third-party insurance — ensuring compensation is available for anyone injured on UK roads.
Claims must generally be started within 3 years of the accident.
NJS Law’s specialist RTA solicitors offer a free assessment on a no win, no fee basis.
Whether you were a driver, passenger, cyclist, or pedestrian — if the accident wasn’t your fault, you have the legal right to pursue compensation.
Our solicitors can help you pursue a road traffic accident claim to recover compensation for physical injuries, psychological harm, and financial losses.
We review your injuries, financial losses, and medical needs to assess the full impact of the accident on your life.
Early legal guidance helps protect your position, especially when insurers make contact soon after the collision.
With clear advice and practical support, you can focus on recovery while we manage the legal steps on your behalf.
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Every road user owes a duty of care to others under the Highway Code and Road Traffic Act 1988. If that duty is breached and you are injured, you are entitled to claim compensation. Three conditions must be met.
Every road user — driver, motorcyclist, cyclist, and pedestrian — owes a duty of care to others.
All motorists must comply with the Highway Code and Road Traffic Act 1988 to prevent harm.
Road Traffic Act 1988 · Highway Code
The other road user failed to meet the required standard — speeding, running a red light, using a mobile phone, failing to indicate, driving without due care and attention..
Standard of the reasonable road user
There must be a direct link between the other road user's breach and your injuries. The breach must have caused or materially contributed to your harm..
Causation — "but for" test
Injuries from car accidents often cause medical costs and lost income.
We assess liability, gather evidence, and guide you through the compensation process.
Recovering after a pedestrian collision can be difficult.
We establish fault and secure compensation for your recovery needs.
Motorbike collisions often cause severe or long-term injuries.
We evaluate fault and gather evidence to support your compensation claim.
Cyclists face unique risks when drivers fail to give proper space.
We help you evidence your injuries and financial losses.
Passengers often suffer injuries despite having no control over the vehicle.
We help you claim compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurer.
Transport operators must ensure passenger safety.
If you were injured on a bus or tram, we help gather evidence and support your claim.
Passengers rarely expect serious injuries on rail services.
We assess the circumstances, identify responsibility, and support your compensation claim.
Heavy goods vehicle impacts often cause serious injuries.
We investigate the collision and manage your claim while you focus on recovery.
Discover today if you’re eligible to make a claim.
Complete the form below, email or call our road traffic accident solicitors for free, no-obligation advice.
| Situation | Eligible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Driver injured in a collision | ✓ Yes | Claim against the at-fault driver’s insurer |
| Passenger in any vehicle | ✓ Yes | Can claim against driver of own or other vehicle |
| Pedestrian struck by vehicle | ✓ Yes | Including hit and run incidents via MIB |
| Cyclist injured in road accident | ✓ Yes | Including dooring, junction collisions, HGV incidents |
| Motorcyclist injured in collision | ✓ Yes | Including lane-filtering and junction accidents |
| Child injured in road accident | ✓ Yes | 3-year limit begins at age 18; claim possible until age 21 |
| Victim of uninsured driver | ✓ Yes | Claim via MIB Uninsured Drivers Agreement |
| Victim of untraced (hit & run) driver | ✓ Yes | MIB Untraced Drivers Agreement — 2-year deadline |
Not sure if your accident gives rise to a claim? Our free guide gives you clear, straightforward answers.
Download our Free Road Traffic Accident Claims Guide
Step-by-step claims process
| Type of Claim | Limitation Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard road traffic accident | 3 years | From date of accident or date of knowledge |
| Child injured in road accident | Until age 21 | 3-year clock begins on 18th birthday |
| Person lacking mental capacity | Suspended | During period of incapacity |
| MIB untraced driver (hit and run) | 2 years | Shorter deadline — seek advice immediately |
| Fatal road accident | 3 years | From date of death or date of knowledge |
Important: If you are approaching your deadline, contact NJS Law immediately on 0800 6525 656. Once the limitation period expires, your right to claim is almost always lost permanently.
If you were injured through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
Our solicitors offer free initial advice to confirm your eligibility and guide you on the next steps.
According to the Department for Transport, there were 135,480 road casualties in Great Britain in 2023 — including 1,695 fatalities. Compensation covers general damages (pain and suffering) and special damages (financial losses including lost earnings, vehicle repair, medical costs, and care).
⚠ Whiplash Reform Programme — important: Whiplash and minor soft tissue injuries from road traffic accidents are subject to a fixed tariff system under the Civil Liability Act 2018 and Whiplash Injury Regulations 2025. Claims valued at £5,000 or less go through the Official Injury Claim (OIC) Portal. Claims above £5,000, or involving injuries other than whiplash, use the standard Judicial College Guidelines valuation below.
Based on the Judicial College Guidelines (17th edition, April 2024) and Whiplash Injury Regulations 2025.
| Type of Injury | Key Factors | Indicative Range |
|---|---|---|
| Whiplash — minor OIC Tariff | Recovery up to 2 years — fixed tariff applies | £240 – £4,215 |
| Whiplash — moderate Above tariff | Symptoms 2+ years, psychological impact | £4,215 – £11,730 |
| Neck injury — severe | Disc damage, nerve involvement, permanent symptoms | £24,990 – £163,680 |
| Back injury — minor soft tissue | Recovery period, impact on daily activities | £2,300 – £12,000 |
| Back injury — moderate | Duration, mobility impact, work capacity | £12,000 – £38,000 |
| Back injury — severe | Permanent disability, nerve damage, disc involvement | £38,000 – £170,000+ |
| Leg injury (moderate) | Fractures, recovery time, long-term mobility | £7,000 – £40,000 |
| Head and brain injury | Cognitive impairment, personality change, care needs | £15,000 – £380,000+ |
| Psychological injury (incl. PTSD) | Severity, duration, impact on employment | £3,500 – £100,000+ |
Important: These ranges are a general guide only based on the Judicial College Guidelines (17th edition) and Whiplash Injury Regulations 2025. They do not constitute legal advice or a guarantee of outcome. Special damages are assessed separately. Contact NJS Law for a free assessment of your specific claim.
Compensation for a road traffic accident depends on the severity of your injuries, the length of your recovery, and how the collision affects your daily life.
Medical evidence, including assessments from specialists and details of ongoing symptoms, plays a central role in determining the value of your claim.
Financial losses, such as reduced income, treatment costs, and travel expenses, are also considered when calculating compensation.
Compensation may be higher for injuries that require surgery, physiotherapy, or long-term medication because of extended recovery time.
Psychological effects, such as anxiety or reduced confidence when travelling, may also be included if supported by a medical professional.
Evidence of how the accident happened, including photographs, dashcam footage, or witness accounts, helps establish liability and support your claim. To understand what evidence is most important, read Evidence for Car Accident Injury Claims.
Clients who cannot return to their previous work often recover additional compensation for future income losses.
Four pieces of legislation govern road traffic accident claims in England and Wales — including reforms specifically introduced for whiplash and soft tissue injury claims.
Requires all motor vehicles used on UK roads to hold third-party liability insurance. Section 151 requires insurers to satisfy court judgments even where the policyholder is in breach of their policy — ensuring compensation is available.
Introduced a fixed tariff for whiplash and minor soft tissue injury claims from road traffic accidents, replacing JCG valuation for these injuries. Claims above £5,000 or involving non-whiplash injuries are not subject to the tariff.
Sets the current fixed tariff amounts for whiplash injuries of defined durations. These amounts are periodically reviewed and represent the maximum recoverable under the OIC Portal for soft tissue injuries.
Two agreements compensate victims of uninsured drivers (Uninsured Drivers Agreement) and hit and run drivers (Untraced Drivers Agreement). Strict notification and time limit requirements apply — the untraced agreement has a 2-year deadline.
Three road traffic accident claims NJS Law has successfully resolved — all handled on a no win, no fee basis.
Serious Injury · Head-On Collision
One reckless decision led to months of physical pain and a lifetime of emotional trauma. Our client was hit head-on by a driver who swerved into the wrong lane, suffering serious injuries and significant financial losses.
.
£50,000 Settlement Secured
NJS Law fought hard for every penny. From the first call to the final payment, they were clear, professional, and always on my side.
Rear-End Collision · Nerve Damage
Stopped at a red light — it should have been safe. One careless driver changed everything. Our client suffered serious physical injuries when struck from behind, leading to long-term nerve damage and life-altering chronic pain.
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£28,000 Settlement Secured
I was told by the other driver’s insurer that my claim wasn’t worth pursuing. NJS Law proved otherwise and secured a settlement that covered everything I’d lost.
Road traffic accident claims follow one of two routes depending on the value and type of injury. NJS Law advises you on which process applies and manages every step.
We confirm eligibility, advise on value and timescales — no cost, no obligation.
No win, no fee CFA set up. ATE insurance arranged to protect you from adverse costs.
Police reports, dashcam footage, CCTV, witness statements, medical records, vehicle repair estimates.
Whiplash under £5,000 → OIC Portal. All other injuries → standard Pre-Action Protocol.
Whiplash under £5,000 → OIC Portal. All other injuries → standard Pre-Action Protocol.
We negotiate firmly with insurers. Most claims settle without court proceedings.
Once settlement is reached or judgment obtained, payment is made promptly and in full.
| Stage | OIC Portal | Standard Track |
|---|---|---|
| Claim submission | 2–4 weeks | 6–12 weeks |
| Insurer response | 15 business days | Up to 3 months |
| Medical evidence | 4–8 weeks | 4–12 weeks |
| Settlement | 3–6 months total | 6–12 months after response |
| Court if disputed | Small Claims | 12–18 months extra |
Stay informed with practical advice and in-depth guides on road traffic accident claims. From understanding liability in road traffic collisions to learning how compensation is calculated, our resources are designed to give you clarity and confidence.
Browse the latest articles to see how real cases are handled, what factors affect compensation, and how our solicitors approach car accident claims. These insights can help you understand your rights and what to expect when making a claim.
Unsure whether your accident gives you the right to claim?
Our team will review your situation and explain your options clearly.
Call us or complete our form for a free consultation.
An experienced solicitor will confirm your eligibility and guide you on the next steps.
All NJS Law road traffic accident claims are handled on a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA). No upfront costs. No financial risk.
→ Learn more about How a No Win No Fee Claim Works
Being injured in a road traffic accident can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of your rights or worried about what comes next. Our expert solicitors provide clear, honest advice and manage every aspect of your claim, so you can focus on recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve.
Dedicated road traffic accident team including David, who brings 25+ years of RTA litigation experience and has taken disputed claims through to trial — including fraud allegations and low velocity impact cases.
We understand the Civil Liability Act 2018 and OIC Portal process inside out. We advise you on exactly which route applies to your claim and fight to ensure you receive the maximum available under whichever process applies.
Our specialist EL/PL team brings decades of expertise across workplace injury, employer liability, and serious injury claims.
Authorised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (no. 8006550).
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£50,000 head-on crash · £28,000 rear-end collision · £20,000 pedestrian at crossing. Real outcomes for real clients with zero upfront cost.
Clear, jargon-free legal advice at every stage.
Full support from first call to final compensation
Proven track record of workplace injury claims
National service across England & Wales
Making a road traffic accident claim can feel overwhelming. Below we’ve answered the most common questions our clients ask. These cover eligibility, time limits, compensation, and what happens if your case goes to court.
In most cases, 3 years from the date of the accident. For children, the 3-year period begins at age 18. For those lacking mental capacity, it is suspended during incapacity. For untraced driver claims through the MIB, only 2 years apply — seek advice immediately if you were involved in a hit and run.
Yes. Contributory negligence reduces but does not eliminate your right to claim. Not wearing a seatbelt may reduce compensation by 15–25%. Being partly at fault for a collision may reduce your award proportionately. You can still pursue the remaining proportion of your losses against the at-fault road user.
The Civil Liability Act 2018 introduced a fixed tariff for whiplash and minor soft tissue injuries from road traffic accidents. Claims valued at £5,000 or less go through the Official Injury Claim (OIC) Portal with fixed amounts set by the Whiplash Injury Regulations 2025. Claims above £5,000 or involving non-whiplash injuries use the standard JCG valuation. NJS Law advises you on which process applies.
Yes. Claims against uninsured drivers are made through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau under the Uninsured Drivers Agreement. Claims against untraced (hit and run) drivers are made under the MIB Untraced Drivers Agreement — a 2-year deadline applies so contact us immediately. NJS Law handles both types of MIB claim and manages all strict notification requirements.
Useful evidence includes dashcam footage (yours or other vehicles), CCTV footage, police accident reports, witness details and statements, photographs of vehicle damage and the scene, medical records, and financial loss records. You do not need everything in place before contacting us — our solicitors guide you through gathering the right evidence.
Yes. Passengers can claim against the driver of the vehicle they were travelling in, the driver of another vehicle involved, or both. You can claim even if the at-fault driver is a friend or family member — the claim is made against their insurance, not against them personally.
Minor whiplash claims through the OIC Portal typically settle within 3–6 months. Standard RTA claims with admitted liability typically resolve within 9–18 months. Disputed liability or serious injury claims can take 18 months to 3 years depending on complexity.
Most claims settle without a court hearing. If court involvement is needed, we guide you through every step.
You can still claim, but prompt reporting strengthens the evidence. We help gather alternative supporting information where needed.
Yes. You can claim for a child, a vulnerable adult, or someone who lacks capacity with appropriate legal authority.
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Our team has decades of specialist experience handling road traffic accident claims, including gathering evidence, assessing injuries, and negotiating with insurers.
Our road traffic accident specialists provide clear guidance, protect your legal position, and work to secure the best possible outcome for your claim.
If you would like professional advice about your accident, you can arrange a free, no-obligation consultation with our solicitors.
You can contact us by phone or email, and we will respond promptly with clear guidance on your next steps.
Get in touch today to start your claim and receive clear advice on what happens next.
Learn more about real road traffic accident claims and how compensation is secured. Our latest case studies and legal insights show how different car accident injuries are handled, the challenges clients face, and the outcomes our solicitors achieve.
From minor collisions and whiplash to serious road traffic accidents, these stories highlight the importance of expert legal support in securing fair compensation.
Browse the latest accident at work resources below:
For fast, friendly affordable legal advice. Contact a member of our team today.
Leanne studied the Bar Vocational Course at the BPP Law School in Leeds, and graduated with Very Competent, before cross-qualifying as a Solicitor in 2013.
Leanne began her legal career in 2009, specialising in Personal Injury claims, with experience across Road Traffic Accidents, Employer and Public Liability cases, and Medical Negligence matters.
As Head of Personal Injury, Leanne is instrumental in driving the growth and evolution of the Employer and Public Liability team, along with the Medical, Dental, and Cosmetic Negligence departments.
In her personal life Leanne enjoys holidaying and days out with her young family.
David joined the RTA team bringing with him over 25 years’ experience in Personal Injury Litigation. David has successfully pursued many disputed Road Traffic Accident claims through to trial, ranging from Liability Disputes, Occupancy Issues, Allegations of fraud, Low Velocity Impact, and Serious Injury claims.
In his spare time David enjoys travelling, cycling and football and has recently started to explore the world of Cooking.
Rachel completed a Batchelor of Education at the Manchester Metropolitan University before undertaking a change in career in 2004.
Since then, Rachel has been dealing with litigated personal injury matters. She has a vast knowledge of the claims process and in her previous role dealt with a varied caseload of Road Traffic Accidents, Employment and Public Liability matters.
In her spare time, Rachel is an avid Manchester City supporter and enjoys holidays and long dog walks with her family.
Stephen is part of the RTA Department and has over 11 years’ experience in dealing with road traffic accident claims.
Stephen enjoys socialising and going out for meals and drinks with friends and family in his down time. He is also an avid fan of film and television series and has a keen interest in cooking.
Rehana completed a Batchelor of Law Degree at Leeds Metropolitan University in 2013, Since then she has been working in the personal injury area of Law, focusing on Road traffic accident claims. Rehana has vast knowledge of the claims process in 2015 having dealt with various types of Road traffic accident claim.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, holidays and reading.
Wendy is part of the RTA Department and brings extensive experience in claims and litigation.
In her spare time, Wendy enjoys hiking, canoeing, painting, travelling and playing pool.
