Where a person's only injuries resulting from the accident are threshold injuries, weekly benefits and treatment and care generally cease after 52 weeks (ss 3.11 and 3.28).
After a multi-vehicle pile-up in Bathurst, injured people may need support to return to daily activities under the NSW Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme. This article explains how SIRA assesses claims for recovery, what evidence is needed, and practical steps to take. The NSW CTP rules apply to all motor vehicle accidents, including pile-ups, and focus on injuries affecting daily life. Understanding the process is essential for Bathurst residents seeking compensation for recovery-related challenges.
How SIRA assesses claims for daily activity recovery
SIRA evaluates claims based on medical evidence showing how injuries impact daily tasks like work, household chores, or mobility. For multi-vehicle accidents, SIRA considers the combined effect of injuries from multiple vehicles. Key factors include:
- Medical reports confirming injuries affecting daily activities
- Evidence of reduced capacity to perform routine tasks
- Documentation of how injuries interfere with work or personal care
SIRA uses the Motor Accident Guidelines to determine if injuries meet the 'threshold injury' criteria, which includes soft tissue injuries or more severe impairments. If injuries prevent returning to daily activities, claims for treatment, income loss, or care may be eligible.
Evidence needed to support claims about returning to daily activities
To prove how injuries affect daily life, claimants must provide:
- Medical records from doctors or physiotherapists
- Statements from healthcare professionals about functional limitations
- Evidence of income loss or inability to work (e.g., employer records)
- Photos of the accident scene or vehicle damage
- Witness statements or accident reports
SIRA may request additional documentation if injuries are unclear. For example, if a person can't walk after a pile-up, medical evidence showing mobility restrictions is critical to support claims.
Time limits, disputes and when to seek advice
Claims must be submitted within 52 weeks of the accident if only 'threshold injuries' are involved. However, if injuries are more severe, time limits may be extended. Disputes can arise if SIRA disputes the link between injuries and daily activity limitations. In such cases, seeking legal advice is advisable to challenge decisions or negotiate a fair outcome.
A hypothetical example: After a multi-vehicle crash, a person may struggle to walk or lift objects. Medical records showing reduced mobility and difficulty with household tasks would support a claim for treatment benefits and income loss. SIRA would assess whether these injuries meet the threshold for compensation.
If you're recovering from a multi-vehicle accident in Bathurst and need help returning to daily activities, contact us for guidance on claiming support under the NSW CTP scheme. Every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.