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've been injured in a motor accident and use a modified vehicle, preparing for medical assessments is critical to securing CTP compensation. Under NSW law, insurers must evaluate how your vehicle modifications impact your injury and recovery. This guide explains how SIRA assesses claims involving modified vehicles, what evidence matters, and how to prepare for medical assessments on the Central Coast.
How CTP Insurers Assess Claims with Modified Vehicles
CTP insurers evaluate injuries based on medical evidence and the nature of the accident. For modified vehicles, such as those with hand controls or adaptive equipment, insurers will assess:
- Whether the modification was necessary due to a pre-existing injury or disability
- How the modification affects your ability to operate the vehicle safely
- Whether the modification is compatible with your current medical condition
SIRA guidelines require medical professionals to document how vehicle modifications influence recovery timelines and functional outcomes. For example, a hand control system may alter mobility assessments, requiring specific clinical notes.
Documentation Needed for Modified Vehicle Claims
To support your claim, gather:
- Medical records showing pre-existing conditions or injuries
- Evidence of vehicle modifications (e.g., receipts, manufacturer details)
- Statements from medical practitioners explaining how modifications affect your recovery
- Accident reports detailing how the modification impacted the incident
Insurers may request a specialist assessment to evaluate the relationship between your injury and vehicle modifications. Ensure all documentation clearly links your condition to the modification's necessity.
SIRA's Specific Requirements for Modified Vehicles
SIRA's Motor Accident Claims page states that vehicle modifications must be 'reasonably necessary' for the injured person's condition. This means:
- Modifications must be directly related to your injury
- They must not be for convenience or lifestyle choices
- They must be medically justified and documented
For example, if you require a hand control system due to a spinal injury, this supports your claim. However, a modification for comfort (e.g., a custom seat) may not qualify. Medical reports must explicitly connect the modification to your injury.
Practical Steps for Central Coast Claimants
- Consult a medical practitioner familiar with modified vehicles to explain how your condition interacts with the modification.
- Request a specialist assessment from a physiotherapist or occupational therapist with experience in adaptive equipment.
- Keep all records of your vehicle modification, including dates of installation and medical justifications.
- Notify your insurer of the modification's relevance to your claim within 52 weeks of the accident (per the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 s 3.28).
When to Seek Legal Advice
If your insurer disputes the necessity of your vehicle modification or refuses to cover related medical costs, seek legal advice. A solicitor can help challenge decisions based on SIRA guidelines and ensure your claim reflects your unique circumstances.
Every claim depends on its own facts. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.