TAC claims aren’t just for car drivers: here’s who’s covered
When most people think about TAC (Transport Accident Commission) claims, they picture car crashes. But the truth is, the TAC scheme covers anyone injured on Victorian roads, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and public transport users.
How TAC works
When Victorian motorists pay their vehicle registration, part of that cost goes toward a TAC insurance premium. This fund provides financial assistance to anyone injured in a transport accident involving a motor vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle, tram, train, or bus – or as a pedestrian.
Importantly, Victoria’s TAC scheme is “no-fault”, meaning you can make a claim regardless of who caused the accident – even if you were the one at fault.
Read more about road accident claims and how we can help you by visiting our Road Accident/TAC page.
Road trauma affects more than just drivers
In the 2023–24 financial year, pedestrians and bicyclists made up 18% of the 5,617 serious road injuries recorded in Victoria. Tragically, 56 pedestrians lost their lives in the 12 months to September 2025, representing 19% of total road deaths in the state during that period.
Motorcyclists remain another group heavily impacted by road trauma. Each year, over 2,500 riders are injured in motorcycle crashes across Victoria, and 47 motorcyclists have already lost their lives on Victorian roads in 2025 (as at October).
TAC claims can cover public transport incidents too
Our client, Jane (not her real name), was injured after a frightening incident on Melbourne’s public transport network.
While disembarking a train, the doors failed to open properly. Jane manually tried to open the door – but the train had already started to depart. She fell onto the platform, suffering significant injuries.
Despite not being injured in a road accident, Jane was still eligible to make a TAC claim.
Our team at Arnold Thomas & Becker acted quickly by commencing proceedings immediately and after a tough fight our client was eventually awarded $250,000 for her pain and suffering.
Why you need a lawyer for a TAC claim
Navigating the process for a claim can be complex.
Our lawyers can help you:
- Ensure your claim is lodged correctly and promptly.
- Maximise your entitlements, including treatment, income support, and lump-sum benefits.
- Handle paperwork and communication with insurers, medical professionals and TAC so you can focus on recovery.
- Provide advice if your claim is rejected or if you’re entitled to pursue common law compensation.
At Arnold Thomas & Becker, we manage your claim from start to finish, keeping you informed at every stage and ensuring you receive the support you deserve.
No Win No Fee
At Arnold Thomas & Becker, we work on a No Win, No Fee basis – meaning you won’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. This helps ease the financial burden after an accident and ensures that anyone can access quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. Our goal is to make the process as stress-free as possible while fighting to secure the best outcome for you.
Talk to us
If you were injured – whether you were driving, riding, walking, or using public transport, you may be entitled to compensation.
At Arnold Thomas & Becker, we have decades of experience helping Victorians recover after transport accidents.
Call us today on 1300 333 300 or fill out the form below.