A threshold injury under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 (NSW) includes a soft tissue injury and a psychological or psychiatric injury that is not a recognised psychiatric illness (adjustment disorder and acute stress disorder are the usual examples; s 1.6 and Motor Accident Guidelines Part 5).
Bus passengers injured in NSW can claim funding for treatment costs through the Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme. This article explains how to secure funding for medical expenses, what treatment costs are covered, and practical steps to take in regional NSW.
How CTP Funding Works for Bus Passengers
Under NSW law, the CTP scheme covers treatment costs for injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents, including bus accidents. The scheme is administered by the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) and applies regardless of fault. For regional NSW, the process is the same as in metropolitan areas, but access to medical services may affect treatment planning.
Covered Treatment Costs
CTP funding covers all reasonable and necessary medical treatment costs, including:
- Emergency care and hospital treatment
- Specialist consultations and diagnostic tests
- Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
- Medications prescribed for injury-related conditions
- Ongoing treatment for long-term impairments
SIRA guidelines state that treatment must be directly related to the injury caused by the accident. Costs must be approved by a medical practitioner and documented in official records.
Practical Steps to Secure Funding
- Seek immediate medical attention - Document all treatment with dated records. Regional hospitals and clinics are eligible, but ensure your GP or specialist is aware of your CTP claim.
- Preserve accident evidence - Collect bus route details, onboard camera footage, witness statements, and any incident reports. Regional NSW transport authorities may have specific reporting protocols.
- Notify your insurer - Contact the bus operator's CTP insurer within 52 weeks of the accident. Delays may affect benefit eligibility under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017.
- Submit medical evidence - Provide itemised bills, treatment plans, and a medical certificate confirming the injury's connection to the accident.
Time Limits and Dispute Resolution
You have 52 weeks from the accident date to claim weekly benefits for treatment costs. After this period, benefits may be limited unless the injury meets the 'threshold injury' criteria under the Motor Accident Guidelines. If your claim is disputed, you can request a review by SIRA or seek independent medical assessment.
When to Seek Legal Advice
Complex cases involving regional healthcare access, long-term treatment needs, or disputes over benefit amounts may require legal assistance. A solicitor can help navigate SIRA's approval processes and ensure all evidence meets CTP scheme requirements.
Every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.