How do I get compensation from a car accident?
- Lodging your claim with the TAC
- If you have suffered an injury or injuries as a result of the accident, you should see your doctor for any possible treatment you require
- Speak to a lawyer
What is the TAC?
The Transport Accident Commission or TAC is the Victorian state government body responsible for managing injury claims made by people who have sustained an injury as a result of a motor vehicle, motorcycle, bus, train, tram or pedestrian accident in Victoria.
Who can make a TAC claim?
If you have sustained an injury due to a car or transport accident, then you may be entitled to receive benefits from the TAC either covering the entirety of your medical expenses or, at least, some of the ongoing support you require to help you recover.
What compensation am I entitled to?
If your claim is accepted, the TAC can provide compensation for your injuries. Compensation may be in the form of reimbursements for reasonable medical expenses, and payments for any time off work you need as a result of your injury. You may also be able to claim a lump sum payment as compensation if you have suffered a permanent injury.
The TAC also pays compensation if someone dies as a result of a road accident.
If you were admitted to hospital as a result of your road accident, or if your accident occurred after 14 February 2018, the TAC will cover your reasonable medical expenses immediately.
How much compensation can I claim after a car accident?
If you have suffered injury as a result of an accident, the TAC can cover a range of entitlements including medical expenses, loss of income (earning payments) and possible lump sum claims, namely impairment benefit and possibly a claim in negligence if the other driver(s) were at fault for the accident
Why should I lodge a TAC claim?
We understand that being involved in a road or transport accident is extremely traumatic. If you have sustained an injury, an accepted TAC claim will mean you are entitled to claim important compensation for your injury.
By lodging a TAC claim, you are starting the process towards receiving important payments that are often vital for getting your life back on track, and getting the crucial treatment you may require.
What happens after I lodge my TAC claim?
You’ll be sent a Claim for Compensation Summary and any relevant forms, such as an Authority to Release Information form by the TAC. You should complete the form and return it as soon as possible to avoid any delays in your claim being accepted.
The TAC will decide to accept, deny or seek further information for your claim within 21 days of receiving it.
How long after a car accident can you claim in Victoria?
You have 12 months from the date of your accident to lodge a claim, but the TAC has the discretion to accept a claim within three years.
What happens in a car accident without insurance?
You are still covered by the TAC if you have suffered an injury as a result of an accident including medical expenses, loss of income and possible lump sum claims.
What happens in a car accident if the car is not registered?
If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident in an unregistered motor vehicle at the time of the accident, TAC can still cover you if the vehicle was capable of registration.
What happens if I am involved in a car accident interstate? Am I covered?
If your accident occurred interstate in a Victorian registered vehicle, you are still eligible to lodge a TAC claim.
What to do if this information applies to you
At Gordon Legal, we understand that TAC claims are a personal issue.
For personalised and individual advice, we offer consultations to discuss your matter.
Please call Gordon Legal on (03) 9603 3000 or our Geelong office on 03 5225 1600 to speak with a member of our team.
Given the current environment, we are providing consultations over the phone, Zoom, WebEx or Skype.
If you have any questions relating to a car or road accident and want to speak to one of our TAC lawyers, call us on 1300 58 46 26.