Passenger injury claims after a road accident
Hurt as a passenger in a car, taxi, bus or on a motorbike? You can usually claim.
If you were hurt as a passenger, you can usually claim compensation, because a passenger is rarely to blame for an accident. The claim is made against the insurer of whichever driver caused it, even if that was the driver of the vehicle you were in. Injury claims are handled by solicitors at NJS Law.
Handled by solicitors at NJS Law, authorised and regulated by the SRA (No. 8006550).
Last reviewed 22/10/2026
Who can make a passenger claim?
Wherever you were sitting, you can usually claim if you were hurt.
In a friend's or family member's car
The claim is against their insurer, not them personally.
In a taxi or private hire vehicle
Against the insurer of whichever driver caused the accident.
On a bus or coach
Including injuries from sudden braking or a collision.
As a pillion passenger
On the back of a motorbike or scooter.
Children
A parent or guardian can usually claim on their behalf.
If both drivers were to blame
You can usually claim against both drivers' insurers.
Key things passengers should know
Before you start a passenger claim.
Time limit
Usually three years from the accident. For children, it runs from their 18th birthday.
It can matter
Not wearing a seatbelt doesn't stop you claiming, but it could reduce your compensation.
Whiplash reforms
Lower-value whiplash claims for adult car passengers usually go through the Official Injury Claim service.
How a passenger claim works
- 01
Free first conversation
Tell us what happened and we'll explain whether you may have a claim.
- 02
We find who's responsible
And which insurer the claim should be made against.
- 03
Medical evidence
An independent medical expert reports on your injuries, usually near you or by video.
- 04
Settlement
Most claims settle without court. If proceedings are needed, you're supported throughout.
What helps a passenger claim?
Don't worry if you don't have everything.
- The registration of the vehicle you were in
- The other driver's details, if another vehicle was involved
- GP or hospital records
- Photos of your injuries
- Witness names and phone numbers
- Receipts for costs such as travel and medication
Passenger claim FAQs
Can I claim against a friend or family member who was driving?
Yes. The claim is made against their insurer, not them personally, so it shouldn't cost them anything directly.
What if both drivers were partly to blame?
As a passenger you can usually claim against both drivers' insurers, and they decide between them how to share the cost.
Can I claim if I wasn't wearing a seatbelt?
Usually, yes, but your compensation may be reduced if wearing one would have reduced your injuries.
Can I claim on behalf of my child?
Yes. A parent or guardian can usually claim for a child as their litigation friend. Children also have until three years after their 18th birthday to claim for themselves.
What if the driver I was with had no insurance?
You may still be able to claim through the Motor Insurers' Bureau, although different rules can apply if you knew the driver was uninsured.
Hurt as a passenger?
Free first conversation, with no obligation to go ahead.
Every claim is different. Injury claims are handled by solicitors at NJS Law Limited, authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, SRA number 8006550. Repairs and replacement vehicles are provided by independent companies we work with.