If you were injured in a wildlife animal strike accident in New South Wales, you may be eligible for treatment costs coverage under the Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme. Wildlife strikes, such as hitting a deer, kangaroo, or bird, are treated as motor vehicle accidents under NSW law, meaning the same CTP rules apply as for standard road accidents. This article explains how SIRA funds medical treatment costs, what evidence matters, and key considerations for claims in Bankstown.
How NSW CTP Laws Cover Wildlife Strike Accidents
Under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017, CTP insurance covers injuries caused by motor vehicles, including accidents involving wildlife. If your accident involved a collision with an animal, your claim falls under the same statutory framework as any other road accident. SIRA (State Insurance Regulatory Authority) administers these claims, and your treatment costs, including specialist consultations, scans, and therapy, are typically covered as long as the injury meets the 'threshold injury' definition.
The key distinction is that wildlife strikes are not treated as separate claims. Instead, they are assessed using the same guidelines as standard CTP claims. For example, if your injury results in soft tissue damage (like whiplash) that meets the threshold injury criteria in the Motor Accident Guidelines, SIRA will fund your treatment. However, if your injury does not meet the threshold, you may not be eligible for ongoing benefits.
Practical Steps and Evidence for Wildlife Strike Claims
To support your claim, you must provide evidence of the accident and your injuries. This includes:
- A medical report confirming your injury and its connection to the wildlife strike
- Police or witness statements describing the incident
- Photographs of the animal and damage to your vehicle (if applicable)
- Records of any treatment received, including receipts and appointment dates
SIRA requires these documents to assess whether your injury qualifies for coverage. If your claim involves a wildlife strike, you should also note the type of animal involved, as this may influence the assessment of your injury's severity.
Time Limits, Disputes and When to Seek Advice
CTP claims in NSW have strict time limits. You must notify SIRA within 90 days of the accident, and your claim must be submitted within 12 months of the incident. If your injury is a 'threshold injury', weekly benefits and treatment coverage may stop after 52 weeks, as the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 specifies that only injuries resulting from the accident are covered.
Disputes over coverage are resolved by SIRA, and you may need to request a review if your claim is rejected. For example, if your injury does not meet the threshold injury definition, you may need to provide additional medical evidence to support your case. In complex situations, such as injuries requiring long-term care or disputes over fault, seeking legal advice is recommended.
Example: Funding Treatment After a Wildlife Strike
Consider a scenario where a driver in Bankstown collides with a kangaroo, resulting in a soft tissue injury. SIRA would cover the cost of physiotherapy and scans if the injury meets the threshold injury criteria. However, if the injury is minor and does not meet the threshold, the claimant may not be eligible for ongoing benefits. This distinction highlights the importance of accurate medical documentation in wildlife strike claims.
Next Steps for Claimants
If your wildlife strike accident has resulted in injuries, you should seek medical attention immediately and begin gathering evidence. While SIRA covers many treatment costs, the specifics of your claim depend on the nature of your injury and the circumstances of the accident. For tailored advice, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form to discuss your circumstances.