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're claiming travel and accommodation costs under NSW's Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme after a motor accident in Bathurst, you need to keep detailed records to support your claim. This article explains what evidence is required, how to document your expenses, and why these records matter for your compensation.
What Evidence Is Needed for Travel and Accommodation Costs?
Under NSW CTP rules, you can claim reasonable travel and accommodation expenses if they're necessary for your medical treatment. The New South Wales Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 and SIRA guidelines specify that claimants must provide:
- Receipts or invoices for travel (e.g., taxi, bus, train) and overnight stays (e.g., hotel, motel)
- Medical records showing the necessity of travel for treatment
- Travel logs documenting dates, destinations, and purposes of trips
- Correspondence with your treating medical practitioner confirming treatment needs
- Proof of income loss if travel affects your ability to work
For example, if you need to travel from Bathurst to a specialist in Sydney for treatment, you must show that the trip was medically necessary and that the cost was reasonable.
How to Document Travel and Accommodation Expenses
To ensure your claim is processed efficiently, organize your evidence as follows:
- Keep all original receipts for travel and accommodation. Digital copies are acceptable if originals are lost.
- Create a travel log with dates, times, destinations, and reasons for each trip. Include details like vehicle used, travel time, and medical appointments.
- Obtain written confirmation from your doctor or specialist explaining why travel was necessary.
- Track income loss if travel disrupts your work. Keep payslips or employer statements.
- Preserve accident details like police reports, witness statements, and photos of the scene.
SIRA's guidelines emphasize that claims must be supported by 'clear and convincing evidence' to demonstrate the necessity of travel and accommodation.
Why Records Matter in CTP Claim Assessments
Insurance providers assess claims based on the 'reasonable and necessary' test. Without proper documentation, your claim may be denied or reduced. For instance, if you claim overnight stays but cannot prove the treatment required, the insurer may argue the expense was not justified.
The 52-week statutory benefit limit also applies. If your only injuries are 'threshold injuries' (as defined by the Motor Accident Guidelines), weekly benefits and treatment costs may be capped after 52 weeks. This means your travel and accommodation records must show that your treatment continued beyond this period.
Time Limits and When to Seek Advice
You have three years from the accident date to claim compensation under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017. However, time limits for specific benefits (like weekly payments) may be shorter. If your claim involves disputes over the necessity of travel or accommodation, seek legal advice before submitting your claim.
Next Steps
If your claim involves travel and accommodation costs, start gathering evidence immediately. Organize your records by date and purpose, and ensure they clearly link your expenses to your medical treatment. For personalized guidance, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.