Yes. If you were injured as a passenger in a road traffic accident (RTA), you are legally entitled to claim compensation—regardless of which driver was at fault.
Why Can Passengers Claim Compensation?
Passengers are considered innocent parties in car accidents. Whether you were in a friend’s car, a taxi, a bus, or even an Uber, if you were injured, you can make a personal injury claim. In most cases, the driver’s insurance covers your compensation.
According to the UK Government’s Road Traffic Act 1988, all drivers must carry third-party insurance. This ensures passengers and other victims are protected financially.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim as a Passenger?
The amount a passenger can claim after an RTA depends on the type and severity of the injury, loss of earnings, and impact on daily life. Typical payouts range from £1,000 for minor whiplash to £200,000+ for serious, life-altering injuries.
💰 Passenger Compensation Estimates (Guidelines)
| Injury Type | Typical Compensation Range |
|---|---|
| Minor Whiplash | £1,000 – £3,500 |
| Moderate Back Injury | £6,000 – £12,000 |
| Severe Neck/Spinal Injury | £45,000 – £200,000+ |
| Fractured Limbs | £5,000 – £20,000 |
| Psychological Stress/PTSD | £3,000 – £20,000+ |
| Fatal Passenger Accident (Dependants) | £12,980+ (bereavement damages) |
Note: Figures are based on the Judicial College Guidelines and recent UK case examples.
🔍 What Affects Passenger Compensation Amounts?
Several key factors can affect how much compensation you receive as a passenger:
- Severity of the injury
- Medical treatment costs
- Loss of current and future earnings
- Impact on quality of life
- Cost of care or rehabilitation
- Travel expenses and out-of-pocket costs
- Emotional trauma or psychological stress
The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be. That’s why working with an experienced solicitor is essential.
📋 Who Can Make a Passenger Injury Claim?
You can make a passenger claim if:
- You were in a private car, taxi, bus, or ride-share service like Uber or Bolt
- You were not at fault for the accident
- You suffered a physical or psychological injury
- The accident occurred within the last 3 years
Minors (under 18) have until age 21 to make a claim. In fatal accidents, family members may claim on behalf of the deceased.
🧠 What If You Suffered Psychological Trauma?
Many passengers experience anxiety, depression, or PTSD after an RTA—especially if it involved high-speed impact or serious injuries. You can claim compensation for psychological stress, even if you had no major physical injuries.
Make sure to seek medical advice and get a formal diagnosis, as this strengthens your case.
🧾 How to Start a Passenger RTA Claim
- Seek medical treatment immediately.
- Report the accident to the police and get a reference number.
- Collect evidence – photos, witness details, medical records.
- Avoid speaking to insurers directly until you get legal advice.
- Contact a solicitor or claim service like National Claims.
🤝 How National Claims Can Help
At National Claims, we understand how stressful road traffic accidents can be—especially when you’re an innocent passenger. That’s why we’ve made it simple to get the support you need.
Our expert team will:
✅ Connect you with specialist personal injury solicitors
✅ Offer a No Win No Fee claim option
✅ Handle the legal process so you can focus on recovery
✅ Maximise your compensation payout
✅ Keep you updated every step of the way
👉 National Claims will help you put in touch with experienced solicitors who will help you with your passenger RTA claim.
📚 People Also Ask
Q1. ✅ Can a passenger claim if the driver was a friend or family member?
Yes. Claims are made against the driver’s insurance, not the individual personally. It won’t cost them directly.
Q2. ✅ Can multiple passengers claim in the same accident?
Yes. Each injured passenger can make an individual claim based on their injuries.
Q3. ✅ What if I didn’t wear a seatbelt during the accident?
You can still claim, but your compensation may be reduced due to “contributory negligence.”
Q4. ✅ Can I claim if I was in a taxi or Uber?
Absolutely. The taxi or ride-share company’s insurance should cover your compensation.
⏳ How Long Do Passenger Injury Claims Take?
Most passenger claims settle within 6 to 12 months. Complex cases, such as those involving long-term injuries or uninsured drivers, may take longer.
Solicitors will guide you through the process, making sure all paperwork, medical reports, and negotiation steps are handled professionally.
📞 Ready to Claim Your Compensation?
You don’t have to face this alone.
If you’ve been injured as a passenger in a road traffic accident, speak to National Claims today. Our friendly team is here to support you and connect you with top UK solicitors who will fight for the compensation you deserve.
💬 No stress. No confusion. Just expert support, every step of the way.
We’re proud of our excellent customer reviews
We thrive on delivering exceptional service and ensuring our clients’ satisfaction. Don’t just take our word for it. Check out some of our independent reviews to see what our clients have to say.
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.
