Road & Car Accident Compensation - Canberra, ACT

State based laws prohibit the publication of information on work related or personal injuries in Queensland or NSW. The information on this site is for Victorian or ACT users.  If you are in Queensland or NSW please refer to the relevant links on this page to direct you to the appropriate information.

Hurt in a road accident?

If you've suffered as the result of a road accident, you'll understand the stress, pain and tragedy accidents can cause. Unfortunately, the experience can often be made even worse afterwards when dealing with insurance companies.

If you've been injured in an accident caused by the negligent driving of a motor car, motorcycle or truck you may be able to claim compensation through the relevant third party insurance companies or  the nominal defendant.

It's important to get advice from experts

Part of the difficulty in dealing with insurance companies and state authorities is that the law relating to motor vehicle accident claims can be complicated. Our experts try to make the process easier for you by providing straight-forward legal advice.

No matter who you are up against, Maurice Blackburn will fight to protect you.

What type of accidents are covered?

Insurance companies cover a number of  negligent motor vehicle related incidents, including:

• a driver injured in an accident where the other vehicle was at fault
• a passenger injured in an accident with another vehicle
• a passenger injured in a single vehicle accident
• a pedestrian hit by a vehicle
• a cyclist hit by a vehicle or hitting an opening door of a vehicle
• a motorcyclist hit by a vehicle, and

• a driver or passenger in a single vehicle accident caused by a defect in the vehicle, which caused the vehicle to run out of control.

What payments am I entitled to?

Depending on the nature of your injuries you are typically entitled to;

• General Damages (damages for pain and suffering and loss of amenity)
• Past and future income loss
• Past and future medical and therapeutic expenses
• Past and future domestic assistance expenses, and

• Interest on General Damages and lost income.

What expenses are covered?

Medical and related expenses will usually be covered, including:

• approved medical and hospital expenses
• approved rehabilitation expenses, including any aid, treatment, counselling, appliance, apparatus or other service
• travelling expenses related to medical and rehabilitation appointments
• pharmacy expenses incurred because of the transport accident, and

• counselling expenses, where the accident caused death or severe injury.

Procedure

If you are injured in a motor vehicle accident within the ACT, which is caused by the negligence of another motorist, you are required to lodge a complying claim form with the relevant insurer within 28 days of the injury. There are also other time limits that you must comply with following the initial claim.

Failure to follow the time limits may result in you being disentitled to proceed with your claim.

Generally any court proceedings must be commenced within three years of the injury.

Will it cost anything to find out whether I can make a claim?

No. We are happy to advise you on your situation during a free first consultation. Call Maurice Blackman on 1800 810 812 to make an appointment.