Being struck by a car that disappears moments later is deeply unsettling. Beyond the shock and injuries sustained, there’s a question that lingers with many people: What happens now? You shouldn’t have to face that uncertainty alone.
In Victoria, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) provides support for people injured on the road, even when the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Whether you were a pedestrian, cyclist, passenger or driver, you may still be covered under the TAC scheme.
Carbone Lawyers have spent decades helping injured Victorians secure fair compensation for injuries after road & transport accidents, including hit-and-run incidents. Our team manages the process from start to finish on a No Win, No Fee basis. Don’t settle for less.
What is an Unidentified Driver TAC Claim?
An unidentified driver TAC claim applies when you’re injured in a transport accident involving a motor vehicle, and the responsible driver can’t be identified, for example, when they leave the scene. The TAC scheme exists to protect Victorians injured on the road and offers no-fault benefits, meaning you can receive compensation regardless of who caused the accident. This type of claim may cover:
- Drivers or passengers involved in a collision where the other vehicle fled
- Pedestrians struck by a vehicle that did not stop
- Cyclists injured on the road or a shared path
- Passengers on trams, buses or trains injured in an incident
Each of these situations is recognised under the TAC scheme, and Carbone Lawyers can help determine whether your experience qualifies.
Am I Eligible for a TAC Claim Without Identifying the Driver?
You don’t need to know who caused the accident to make a TAC claim. What matters is that:
- The accident occurred on a public road or area
- The injury involved a motor vehicle
- You were a road user covered under TAC, such as a driver, passenger, pedestrian, cyclist or public transport user
If you’re unsure whether your circumstances qualify, contact Carbone Lawyers. Our team can review your situation and explain how the TAC rules apply to your case.
What Compensation Can I Claim Through the TAC?
TAC benefits can help you recover physically, emotionally and financially after a road accident. Depending on your injuries and circumstances, you may be entitled to:
- Medical and rehabilitation costs: doctor visits, hospital stays, ambulance transport, surgery, medication and therapy
- Support services: home help, child care, gardening, cleaning and travel to appointments
- Income support: weekly payments of up to 80% of your pre-accident earnings if you can’t work
- Rehabilitation and return-to-work programs: vocational retraining or assistance finding new employment
- Permanent impairment payment: a lump sum for lasting injuries
- Psychological and family support: counselling and recovery services
- Funeral expenses if the accident was fatal
- Common law damages: additional compensation where serious injury and negligence can be proven
These benefits apply regardless of whether the driver who caused the accident has been identified.
Evidence Needed for a Successful Unidentified Driver Claim
TAC claims are stronger when supported by clear, reliable evidence. While the specific documents may vary, helpful evidence includes:
- Medical records: Have your doctor complete a TAC medical certificate and keep records of treatment, diagnoses and progress reports.
- Accident details: Record the time, location and circumstances of the incident. Collect witness names and contact information, and save any photos or dashcam/CCTV footage if available.
- Claim documentation: Lodge your TAC claim promptly. Carbone Lawyers can help prepare your application and manage all correspondence with the TAC.
If you’re uncertain about what evidence is needed, our team can advise you on how to build the most effective claim.
Time Limits to Lodge Your TAC Claim
There are time limits for lodging a TAC claim. Acting quickly is the best way to protect your rights and ensure access to full benefits. If you’re unsure whether your claim is still within time, contact Carbone Lawyers as soon as possible for advice on your options.
How Carbone Lawyers Can Help
Our TAC lawyers handle every aspect of your claim, including:
- Explaining your entitlements and guiding you through the TAC process
- Collecting evidence and coordinating medical reports
- Lodging and managing the claim with the TAC
- Negotiating for fair compensation
- Challenging any TAC decisions or disputes
We’re experienced in all types of transport accident claims, from car and motorcycle crashes to pedestrian and public transport injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a TAC claim if I don’t know who hit me?
Yes. TAC provides compensation to anyone injured in a transport accident in Victoria, even if the at-fault driver is unidentified.
What can TAC pay for?
TAC can cover medical and rehabilitation expenses, income support (up to 80% of your earnings), home and vehicle modifications, counselling and, in some cases, lump sum or common law compensation.
Do pedestrians and cyclists qualify?
Yes. Cyclists on roads or paths and pedestrians injured by vehicles are included under TAC coverage.
Do I have to manage the TAC process myself?
No. Carbone Lawyers can lodge your claim, gather supporting evidence and manage all dealings with TAC.
What if my injuries are serious?
If you have a serious injury caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to claim additional compensation through common law. Our team can advise you on this process.
Get Support Today
Being injured by an unidentified driver is distressing, but you are not without rights. The TAC scheme exists to support people in your situation, and with the right guidance, you can access the benefits you’re entitled to. Carbone Lawyers are here to make the process clear, fair and stress-free. Don’t settle for less, contact us today to start your TAC claim.
