NSW CTP insurers evaluate travel and accommodation expenses based on medical necessity, documented evidence, and adherence to SIRA guidelines. If you've incurred these costs after a motor accident in Bathurst, understanding how insurers assess them is critical to securing fair compensation. This article explains the legal framework, evidence requirements, and practical steps to support your claim under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 (MAIA).
What Evidence is Needed for Travel and Accommodation Claims
Under the MAIA, claimants may seek reimbursement for travel and accommodation costs that are reasonably necessary for medical treatment. SIRA’s guidelines clarify that these expenses must be directly linked to the injury and not for convenience. For example, if a doctor orders a specialist consultation requiring overnight travel, the cost of transport and lodging may be recoverable.
Insurers typically require:
- A medical certificate confirming the necessity of travel or overnight stay.
- Receipts for travel (e.g., taxi, train, or car hire) and accommodation.
- Accident reports or witness statements to establish the incident’s circumstances.
How Insurers Evaluate Costs
Insurers assess whether travel and accommodation costs are reasonably necessary by considering:
- The medical necessity of the treatment or visit.
- The direct link between the expense and the injury.
- Whether the expense is reasonable in the circumstances.
For example, if a claimant needs to travel 500km for a specialist appointment, the cost of a train ticket or car hire may be recoverable. However, expenses for a luxury hotel or unnecessary travel (e.g., a weekend trip) are unlikely to be approved.
Practical Steps for Claimants
To support your claim:
- Keep all receipts for travel and accommodation.
- Obtain a medical certificate from your treating doctor explaining why the travel or overnight stay was necessary.
- Document the accident with a report, witness statements, or photographs.
- Submit claims promptly to avoid delays.
Time Limits and Next Steps
CTP claims must be submitted within 52 weeks of the accident. If your claim involves threshold injuries (soft tissue injuries under MAIA s 1.6), weekly benefits and treatment and care generally cease after 52 weeks. For disputes or complex cases, seek legal advice to ensure your claim is properly assessed.
When to Seek Legal Advice
If your insurer denies your claim or disputes the amount, consider consulting a solicitor. Legal professionals can help you:
- Challenge an insurer’s refusal of reasonable costs.
- Navigate the 52-week time limit.
- Understand how threshold injuries affect your entitlements.
Every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.