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).
If you were injured in a reversing vehicle accident in Armidale NSW, you may be eligible for treatment costs covered under the NSW Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme. This article explains how SIRA determines coverage for medical treatment, what evidence is needed to claim funding, and how CTP insurers assess costs for reversing accidents compared to other incidents.
How SIRA Funds Treatment Costs for Reversing Accidents
Under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017, CTP insurers must cover reasonable medical treatment costs for injuries caused by a motor vehicle accident, including those from reversing vehicles. SIRA guidelines state that treatment costs include medical consultations, scans, physiotherapy, and medications directly related to the accident. For example, if a reversing car caused a soft tissue injury requiring physiotherapy, the CTP insurer must fund that treatment.
Evidence Needed for Treatment Funding Claims
To claim treatment costs, you must provide evidence linking the injury to the reversing accident. Key documents include:
- Medical records confirming the injury and its connection to the accident
- Accident reports from the scene, including witness statements if available
- Photographs of the vehicle and damage
- Receipts for treatment costs incurred
- A statement from your treating medical practitioner explaining the necessity of treatment
How CTP Insurers Assess Costs for Reversing Accidents
CTP insurers evaluate treatment costs based on SIRA's Motor Accident Guidelines. For soft tissue injuries (threshold injuries), they cover costs for 52 weeks from the accident date. If treatment extends beyond this period, additional evidence is required to justify ongoing costs. Reversing accidents are treated similarly to other motor vehicle accidents, but insurers may scrutinise claims where the accident occurred on private property or a driveway, as these are not always classified as 'road' incidents under CTP rules.
Practical Steps After a Reversing Accident
- Seek immediate medical attention and document all treatment costs
- Report the accident to the registered keeper of the reversing vehicle
- Notify your CTP insurer within 52 weeks of the accident
- Keep all medical records and correspondence with insurers
- Consider seeking independent legal advice if your claim is disputed
Time Limits and Dispute Options
You must notify your CTP insurer within 52 weeks of the accident to claim treatment costs. If your claim is rejected, you can request a review by SIRA or seek mediation through the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). For reversing accidents involving private property, ensure the accident location is clearly described in all documentation, as this may affect CTP coverage.
When to Seek Legal Advice
If your treatment costs are denied, or if the insurer disputes the link between the reversing accident and your injury, consult a solicitor specialising in NSW CTP claims. Legal advice can help you challenge decisions based on SIRA guidelines or negotiate a fair settlement.
Every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.