If you've been burned in a vehicle fire in Western Sydney, preserving evidence is essential to support your CTP claim. This article explains what records to keep, how SIRA assesses burn injuries, and the legal risks of incomplete documentation. Under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 (MAIA), burn injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents are covered, but the success of your claim depends on the evidence you retain.
What Evidence to Preserve
To support your claim, keep all records related to the incident and your injuries. This includes:
- Medical records showing the burn's severity, treatment, and recovery progress
- Photos of the fire scene, vehicle damage, and burn marks
- Witness statements or contact details
- Police reports or accident reports
- Insurance documents and correspondence
- Income records to support claims for lost wages
SIRA evaluates burn injuries using the Motor Accident Guidelines. Threshold injuries, including soft tissue injuries like burns, are defined in MAIA s 1.6. If your injury meets this threshold, you may be eligible for weekly benefits and treatment. However, weekly benefits and treatment and care generally stop after 52 weeks if your injuries are only threshold injuries (MAIA ss 3.11 and 3.28).
How SIRA Assesses Burn Injuries
SIRA uses the Motor Accident Guidelines to determine the severity of your burn injury. Key factors include:
- The depth and extent of the burn (superficial, partial thickness, full thickness)
- Whether the injury caused long-term impairment or scarring
- Medical evidence of ongoing treatment needs
- Your ability to work or perform daily activities
For example, a burn that requires skin grafts or causes significant scarring may qualify as a long-term impairment. Incomplete or delayed documentation could reduce the amount of compensation you receive.
Practical Steps After a Vehicle Fire
- Seek immediate medical attention and document all treatment
- Preserve the fire scene and take photos of the vehicle and injuries
- Report the incident to the police and your insurance provider
- Keep copies of all medical bills, prescriptions, and therapy records
- Contact SIRA or a legal professional to understand your options
If you're unsure whether your burn injury qualifies for compensation, contact LegalAdvice.com.au for free, no obligation advice. The evidence you retain now will directly impact the outcome of your claim.
Next Steps
Time limits and procedural requirements may apply. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.