A threshold injury under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 (NSW) includes a soft tissue injury and a psychological or psychiatric injury that is not a recognised psychiatric illness (adjustment disorder and acute stress disorder are the usual examples; s 1.6 and Motor Accident Guidelines Part 5).
If you've been injured in a U-turn collision on the Central Coast and need funding for treatment costs, NSW's Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme may cover your expenses. Under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017, injured road users can claim treatment and care benefits through the State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA). This article explains how SIRA assesses treatment costs, what evidence is needed, and steps to take after a U-turn collision.
How SIRA Funds Treatment Costs After U-Turn Collisions
SIRA evaluates treatment costs based on the injury's severity and medical necessity. For injuries meeting the 'threshold injury' definition in the Motor Accident Guidelines, treatment benefits cover medically necessary care, including physiotherapy, therapy sessions, and medical equipment. The assessment considers:
- Medical records confirming the injury's cause and treatment plan
- Accident reports detailing the U-turn collision's circumstances
- Witness statements or police reports
- Doctor's notes explaining the injury's impact on daily activities
For example, if a pedestrian injured in a U-turn collision requires 12 weeks of physiotherapy, SIRA will assess whether the treatment is both necessary and directly related to the accident.
What Treatment Costs Are Covered Under NSW CTP Claims
SIRA covers a range of treatment costs, including:
- Medical consultations with specialists
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
- Medical equipment like crutches or braces
- Transport to medical appointments
- Home modifications if the injury requires permanent adjustments
However, costs must be directly related to the injury caused by the U-turn collision. Expenses for unrelated treatments, such as cosmetic procedures, are not funded. SIRA also limits benefits for 'threshold injuries' after 52 weeks, as outlined in the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 s 4.4.
Steps to Ensure Treatment Costs Are Funded
After a U-turn collision, take these actions to support your claim:
- Seek immediate medical attention and document all treatment received
- Report the accident to the NSW Police or local authorities
- Notify your insurer (if you're a driver/passenger) or the at-fault driver's insurer
- Keep all medical records and receipts related to your treatment
- Submit a claim through SIRA's online portal or by mail
If your injury involves a spinal nerve-root injury with neurological signs, ensure your doctor documents this as it may qualify under the soft-tissue definition in the Motor Accident Guidelines.
Time Limits and When to Seek Advice
You have five years from the accident date to claim treatment costs under NSW CTP laws. However, delays can affect your ability to secure funding, especially if your injury requires ongoing care. If your claim is denied or you face disputes over the treatment's necessity, consult a solicitor specialising in CTP claims. They can help challenge SIRA's decision or negotiate a fair outcome.
Final Steps
If your U-turn collision injury requires treatment funding, act promptly to gather evidence and submit your claim. While SIRA provides a framework for covering costs, the process depends on the specific circumstances of your accident. For tailored advice, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form to request contact about your circumstances.