Yes, children can make a passenger claim after an accident, but the claim must be made by a parent or legal guardian on their behalf. The process differs slightly due to their age, but they are entitled to compensation just like any adult.
Understanding Passenger Claims for Children
When a road traffic accident occurs, it’s not just the adults who can be affected. Children who are passengers are just as likely—if not more so—to suffer physical or emotional trauma. Whether it’s a minor collision or a serious crash, any injury sustained by a child as a passenger can lead to long-lasting consequences.
The good news? Children have the legal right to claim compensation after an accident. However, since they’re under 18, they cannot handle the claim themselves. That’s where a parent or guardian steps in, acting as a “litigation friend” to manage the process.
Who Can Claim on Behalf of a Child?
If your child has been injured as a passenger in a road traffic accident, you can make a claim on their behalf. This applies whether the driver was at fault or if another road user caused the crash. Claims can even be made in situations where the driver of your vehicle was a family member or friend.
What Injuries Can a Child Claim For?
Children may suffer a wide range of injuries as passengers in a vehicle. These can include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Cuts and bruises
- Broken bones
- Psychological trauma (such as anxiety or nightmares)
- Long-term emotional distress
Even in low-speed collisions, children may be more susceptible to injury due to their smaller size and developing bodies. Emotional injuries, such as psychological stress, are also valid grounds for a claim.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
The compensation amount for child passenger claims depends on several factors, including:
- Severity of injuries
- Length of recovery time
- Impact on quality of life
- Medical treatment costs
- Emotional and psychological trauma
Here are estimated figures based on recent data:
| Injury Type | Estimated Compensation Range |
|---|---|
| Minor whiplash | £1,000 – £3,500 |
| Moderate physical injuries | £3,000 – £15,000 |
| Severe injuries or fractures | £15,000 – £50,000+ |
| Psychological trauma | £4,000 – £44,000 |
Please note: These are approximate figures. Your actual compensation could be higher or lower depending on the case.
National Claims Can Help You
At National Claims, we understand how distressing it is to see your child injured in an accident. That’s why we’re here to take the stress off your shoulders. We will connect you with experienced solicitors who specialise in child injury claims.
Our panel of solicitors is trained to handle cases with care, ensuring your child gets the support and compensation they deserve. We’ll guide you through the process step by step – so you never feel overwhelmed.
What is the Claims Process?
Here’s what to expect when making a child passenger accident claim:
- Initial Consultation – Contact National Claims for a free consultation.
- Gathering Evidence – Medical records, accident reports, witness statements.
- Appointment of Litigation Friend – Usually the parent or legal guardian.
- Solicitor Engagement – We connect you to solicitors who handle everything.
- Medical Assessment – A specialist may evaluate your child’s injuries.
- Settlement or Court – Most claims are settled out of court.
What is a Child Trust Fund or Court Approval?
If the claim is successful and the child receives compensation, the money is not released directly to the parents. Instead:
- The funds are held in a Court-approved trust until the child turns 18.
- Alternatively, it may be placed in a Child Trust Fund (CTF).
This ensures that the compensation is protected and will benefit the child in the future.
People Also Ask
Q1. Can I claim for my child if I was the driver?
Yes, you can still make a claim on behalf of your child even if you were the driver, provided you were not at fault.
Q2. How long does a child injury claim take?
Most claims settle within 6 to 12 months, though complex cases may take longer.
Q3. Is psychological trauma covered in child injury claims?
Absolutely. Children can claim for psychology stress and long-term emotional effects following an accident.
Q4. What if the accident was caused by an uninsured driver?
The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) steps in to handle claims involving uninsured or untraced drivers in the UK.
Why Act Quickly?
Although your child has until their 21st birthday to make a claim, starting early is often better. Why?
- Fresher evidence
- Faster resolution
- Accurate medical reports
Moreover, early intervention helps get your child access to the emotional and medical support they need straight away.
Final Thoughts
Being involved in a car accident is traumatic—especially for a child. Whether it’s physical injuries or psychological stress, your child deserves the best care and compensation. As a parent or guardian, you can take charge of their recovery by making a passenger accident claim.
Contact National Claims today, and we will put you in touch with an expert solicitor who can guide you through the claims process.📞 Call us now free 0800 029 3849 or 📩 Submit an online enquiry to speak to our team. Your safety and well-being matter, and we’re here to help.
👉 Get in touch today for a free consultation and find out how much you could claim.
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Excellent
This firm is excellent, they sorted out my car pay out and injury claim very fast, they always communicate with you all the time.
My accident case was dealt with confidence and with great result of the outcome, especially James kept me informed all the time.
I was very impressed at the way my inquiry was treated. I was listened to attentively and everything I needed to know was explained to me.
