IrelandI was the victim of dangerous driving. Can I claim?
Yes, as a victim of dangerous driving in Ireland, you may claim compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme or by suing the driver civilly — the Road Traffic Act 1961 makes dangerous driving a criminal offence.
What the Law Says
The Road Traffic Act 1961 defines dangerous driving as a criminal offence. A conviction under this section may support your claim for compensation — especially under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme — but you may also pursue a civil claim independently.
Section 53 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 makes it an offence to drive a vehicle on a road 'in a dangerous manner'. This includes driving that falls far below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver, and would be obvious to such a driver as dangerous.
The law does not require injury to occur for the offence to be committed — danger alone is sufficient. However, if injury does result, it strengthens both criminal prosecution and any civil claim for damages.
While the Act itself does not set out compensation rules, it provides the legal basis for holding the driver criminally liable — which can assist victims seeking redress through other routes, including the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (administered by the State) or a personal injury lawsuit.
Statutory TextA person who drives a vehicle on a road in a dangerous manner shall be guilty of an offence.
— Road Traffic Act 1961, s. 53 — Driving in a dangerous manner
What to Do
Report the incident to An Garda Síochána immediately — a formal investigation and possible prosecution under s. 53 may follow.
If injured, seek medical attention and keep all records (GP notes, hospital reports, receipts).
Apply to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme within 2 years of the incident — you’ll need evidence of the offence and injuries.
Consider instructing a solicitor to explore a civil personal injury claim — no criminal conviction is required for this route.
Preserve evidence: photos of damage/injuries, witness contact details, dashcam footage, and any Garda report reference number.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.