Can I Claim TAC If I Was Injured In A Hit-And-Run Accident In Victoria?
A hit-and-run accident is one of the most frightening experiences on Melbourne roads.
You may be left injured, shaken, and confused — and then the other driver disappears.
It is common for people to worry that without the at-fault driver’s details they have no options.
In Victoria, however, many people injured in hit-and-run accidents are still able to make a claim through the Transport Accident Commission (TAC).
The TAC scheme exists to support people injured in transport accidents, even when the responsible driver is not immediately identified.
This article explains how TAC works in hit-and-run cases, what you may be entitled to, and the practical steps that protect your rights.
Quick answer: TAC claims after hit-and-run accidents
Yes — you can often make a TAC claim even if the driver who caused your accident fled the scene.
TAC benefits are designed to provide no-fault support to people injured in transport accidents in Victoria.
This means that the identity of the at-fault driver is not always required for you to start receiving treatment and income support.
What is a hit-and-run accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when the driver responsible for a collision leaves the scene without providing details or helping the injured person.
In Melbourne this can happen in many ways:
- Rear-end collisions in heavy traffic where the other vehicle drives away
- Side-swipes while merging or changing lanes
- Dooring incidents involving cyclists
- Pedestrians struck at intersections or crossings
- Car park collisions where the at-fault driver leaves before being identified
Who can claim TAC after a hit-and-run?
TAC claims are not limited to drivers. You may be eligible if you were:
- A driver injured in a hit-and-run
- A passenger in a vehicle that was hit
- A cyclist forced off the road or struck by a fleeing driver
- A pedestrian hit by a vehicle that did not stop
How TAC helps when the driver is unknown
TAC operates on a no-fault basis for many benefits. That means your claim is assessed based on:
- Whether you were injured
- Whether the injury was caused by a transport accident
- Whether you meet the eligibility requirements
You are not automatically excluded because you cannot identify the other driver.
What you can claim through TAC
If your TAC claim is accepted, you may be entitled to:
Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- GP and specialist visits
- Hospital and surgery costs
- Physiotherapy, chiropractic, psychology
Income support
If your injuries prevent you from working, TAC may pay weekly benefits based on your pre-accident earnings.
Support services
In some cases, you may receive assistance with daily activities such as transport, home care or personal support.
What TAC does not cover
TAC generally does not pay for vehicle repairs, damage to personal items, or property loss.
Time limits you must meet
You normally have 12 months from the date of the accident — or from when your injury first becomes evident —
to lodge a TAC claim. Missing this deadline can make it difficult to access benefits.
What to do after a hit-and-run in Victoria
- Seek medical treatment and tell your doctor exactly how the accident happened.
- Report the accident to police and obtain an event number.
- Write down everything you remember while it is still fresh.
- Identify any possible CCTV or witnesses.
- Lodge your TAC claim as soon as possible.
Evidence that strengthens your claim
- Medical records linking your injuries to the accident
- Police reports and event numbers
- Photographs of the scene and your injuries
- Witness statements
- CCTV or dashcam footage
Can I pursue common law compensation?
In serious injury cases, you may also be able to pursue common law compensation if the at-fault driver is identified.
This is a complex process and usually requires legal advice.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Delaying medical treatment
- Failing to report the accident
- Missing the TAC lodgement deadline
- Not responding to TAC requests for information
FAQ’s
Can I claim TAC if I don’t know who hit me?
Yes, in many cases you can still make a TAC claim even when the driver is unknown.
Do I need a police report?
A police report is strongly recommended for hit-and-run accidents.
Final Thoughts
Being injured in a hit-and-run accident is overwhelming, but in Victoria you are not without options.
TAC is designed to help people recover, even when the responsible driver is not immediately found.
The most important things are to seek treatment, gather evidence and lodge your claim within time.
Melbourne Recommendation – Hymans Legal
If you need help navigating your TAC claim after a hit-and-run, consider contacting Hymans Legal.
Phone: 1300 667 116
Website: https://hymanslegal.com.au/