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 wildlife animal strike accident in NSW, understanding how treatment costs are funded under the Compulsory Third Party (CTP) scheme is critical. The NSW CTP scheme covers eligible treatment costs for injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents, including strikes with animals. However, regional claimants may face unique challenges in securing funding. This article explains how SIRA assesses treatment costs, what expenses are covered, and how to navigate disputes in regional NSW.
How SIRA Funds Treatment Costs for Wildlife Strikes
SIRA (State Insurance Regulatory Authority) administers the NSW CTP scheme, which provides funding for treatment costs when injuries result from motor vehicle accidents. For wildlife strikes, the key is whether the injury meets the 'threshold injury' criteria under the Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017. SIRA evaluates treatment costs based on medical reports, the nature of the injury, and the claimant's medical needs. For example, if a claimant sustains a soft tissue injury (like a bruise or strain) from a wildlife strike, SIRA will cover the cost of physiotherapy or medical imaging deemed necessary for recovery.
What Treatment Costs Are Eligible?
Under the CTP scheme, eligible treatment costs include medical consultations, diagnostic tests, specialist treatments, and rehabilitation services. However, the following apply:
- Threshold injuries (soft tissue injuries or minor fractures) are typically covered for 52 weeks, after which benefits may be limited.
- Major injuries (such as spinal or brain injuries) may qualify for long-term treatment funding.
- Regional claimants may face delays in accessing services due to limited local medical facilities, but SIRA will still fund approved treatment costs.
Navigating Funding Disputes in Regional NSW
In regional areas, claimants may encounter delays in securing treatment or disputes over coverage. Key steps include:
- Documenting all treatment costs with receipts, medical records, and correspondence with healthcare providers.
- Notifying SIRA promptly after the accident to avoid delays.
- Requesting a review if treatment costs are denied, as SIRA allows for reassessment based on new evidence.
A hypothetical example: A motorcyclist in regional NSW collides with a kangaroo, sustaining a soft tissue injury. SIRA covers the cost of physiotherapy for 52 weeks, but the claimant must submit medical evidence to confirm ongoing treatment needs.
Time Limits and When to Seek Advice
The CTP scheme has strict time limits. Most claims must be submitted within 52 weeks of the accident, though extensions may apply in exceptional cases. If your claim involves a wildlife strike, seek legal advice early to ensure all evidence is properly preserved and submitted.
Next Steps
CTP entitlements depend on the accident date, injury type, and claim history. To request contact about your circumstances, complete the quick, no obligation enquiry form.