Under NSW's Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme, injured claimants may be entitled to cover travel and accommodation costs incurred while returning to daily activities after a motor accident. This article explains what expenses are covered, how insurers assess them, and key considerations for claimants.
What Travel and Accommodation Costs Are Covered?
NSW CTP claims may cover reasonable travel and overnight accommodation costs directly related to medical treatment and recovery. This includes:
- Travel to and from medical appointments, therapy sessions, or rehabilitation
- Overnight stays at hospitals, specialist clinics, or approved treatment facilities
- Transportation costs for essential medical equipment delivery
These expenses must be incurred as a direct result of the accident and necessary for recovery. SIRA guidelines state that costs must be 'reasonably necessary' and 'not excessive' compared to standard treatment requirements.
How Are These Costs Assessed by Insurers?
Insurers assess travel and accommodation claims based on:
- Medical necessity - Evidence from healthcare professionals confirming treatment requirements
- Reasonable cost - Expenses must align with standard medical practices and not exceed typical treatment costs
- Documentation - Claimants must provide receipts, medical records, and treatment schedules
SIRA's 'What you can claim' page outlines that insurers may request detailed records to verify that expenses are directly related to recovery. For example, a claimant requiring weekly physiotherapy sessions may be reimbursed for travel costs, but not for personal errands.
Limitations on Claiming These Expenses
There are key restrictions to be aware of:
- Time limits - Most claims must be submitted within 52 weeks of the accident, though exceptions exist for ongoing treatment
- No claim for non-essential travel - Expenses like visiting family or leisure travel are not covered
- No claim for accommodation unrelated to treatment - Overnight stays for non-medical reasons are not eligible
Insurers may also limit claims if the injury is classified as a 'threshold injury' under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017. This applies to soft tissue injuries without significant impairment.
Practical Steps for Claimants
To support your claim:
- Keep detailed records of all travel and accommodation expenses
- Obtain medical documentation confirming treatment requirements
- Submit claims promptly within the 52-week window
- Request written confirmation of any denied claims
If your injury involves complex recovery needs, consider seeking independent legal advice to ensure all eligible expenses are claimed.
When to Seek Legal Advice
Consult a legal professional if:
- Your injury requires long-term treatment beyond 52 weeks
- You're unsure whether your expenses meet the 'reasonably necessary' test
- Your claim is denied and you wish to dispute the decision
Time limits and procedural requirements can significantly impact your ability to claim. Every claim depends on its own facts.
Every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.