Your guide to making a TAC claim

Your rights after a transport accident

Being injured in a transport accident can leave you dealing with more than just your recovery. Many people also face time away from work, unexpected costs, and uncertainty about what support is available to them.

This guide explains TAC injury claims in Victoria, such as what they are, who can claim, what’s covered, and how compensation works. Whether you’re looking to understand TAC compensation payouts or your options for pain and suffering compensation, we make the process clearer and less stressful.

Who can make a TAC claim?

You may be eligible if you were injured in Victoria in a transport accident involving a registered vehicle. This includes:

• drivers and passengers
• pedestrians
• cyclists
• motorcyclists

Importantly, fault does not usually affect eligibility. You can make a TAC claim even if you believe you caused the accident.

How to make a TAC claim

Making a TAC claim can feel daunting, especially if you’re dealing with injuries or recovery after an accident. The following overview explains what to do after an accident and the information typically needed to start a claim.

What to do after an accident

As soon as you can, try to:

• seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• report the accident to the police to create an official record
• collect details, including names, contact details, vehicle registrations and insurer information

Early steps can make the claims process smoother later on.

Documents you’ll need for a TAC claim

Most TAC claims require a police report or reference number, a medical certificate, or hospital records, and any initial treatment details. Other helpful supporting information includes photos of the accident scene or injuries, witness contact details, and your own written account of what happened. If anything is missing, TAC may request further information later.

Submitting your TAC claim

Online

Claims can be lodged via the TAC website. Make sure you complete every section and upload all available documents, as missing details are a common cause of delays.

By phone

Call TAC on 1300 654 329. Be ready with:

• personal details
• accident date and location
• police report number
• medical treatment information

If you’re in hospital

A Patient Liaison Officer may assist you with lodging your claim. Family members can also help by bringing identification and relevant documents.

What TAC covers

Expenses and benefits that may be paid

Coverage is generally based on what is reasonable and necessary for your recovery. Depending on your injuries, TAC may cover:

• medical and hospital treatment
• ambulance costs
• rehabilitation and therapy services
• medication
• home care services
• income support if you can’t work
• travel costs for medical appointments
• vehicle or home modifications (where needed)

What TAC generally doesn’t cover

Understanding the limits can help avoid disappointment and confusion. TAC usually won’t pay for:

• treatment unrelated to the accident
• pre‑existing conditions not aggravated by the accident
• costs already covered elsewhere
• pain and suffering compensation for minor injuries

Managing your claim

Staying informed

You can check your claim status through TAC’s online portal or by phone. Staying engaged helps prevent avoidable delays.

Updating your details

Changes to address, phone number or circumstances should be updated promptly via TAC’s portal or by calling them directly. Information isn’t updated by email for privacy reasons.

Protecting your privacy

Only share claim information through secure TAC channels and avoid discussing sensitive details in public or unsecured settings.

TAC compensation and payments

There are a few types of compensation available, and each claim is assessed on its own facts. TAC support may include:

• medical expenses, with no set cap for approved treatment
• income support, generally at up to 80% of your pre‑injury earnings
• rehabilitation and care services based on individual needs
• lump‑sum compensation for serious injury cases, including pain and suffering

How compensation is calculated

Medical expenses

TAC will usually pay for approved treatment related to your injuries, based on what the treatment actually costs. If your condition changes or your recovery takes longer than expected, additional treatment may still be covered.

Income support

Income support is typically based on what you were earning before the accident. Payments may continue while you’re unable to work or if you need time to return to work gradually as you recover.

Legal rights and responsibilities

Work‑related transport accidents

If the accident occurred while you were working or driving for work, additional legal issues may apply. In some situations, an employer may have legal responsibility for what occurred.

Both employers and employees have obligations to report incidents, support claims, and provide necessary documentation.

Need help with a TAC claim?

Our specialist road injury lawyers will assist you with your claim and make sure you know about your options.

We understand how difficult life can feel after a transport accident. Our role is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on recovery.

Maurice Blackburn has decades of experience helping injured Victorians through TAC claims, including serious injury and pain and suffering compensation matters.

• Free initial consultation
• No Win, No Fee
• Clear, compassionate advice

Contact us today to talk through your situation and understand where you stand.