05 May 2023
By Julia Arena
How to make a car accident compensation claim
If you’ve suffered injuries as a result of a car accident where a South Australian registered vehicle was at fault, you may be able to make a compensation claim for your injuries.
The South Australian Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance Scheme provides compensation for injuries for various road users, including drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, scooter riders, pedestrians and cyclists.
Below are the steps to take if you wish to seek compensation for your injuries:
1. Obtain the full name of the at-fault driver and the number plate of their vehicle to confirm registration.
This is important information that you will be required to provide to the CTP Regulator to determine which of the CTP insurers will cover the at-fault driver.
2. Report the accident to police, including advising police that you have been injured as a result of the accident.
3. Visit your doctor to report that you have been involved in a car accident. Advise your doctor of any injuries you have suffered.
Ask your doctor to complete a CTP Insurance Claims Medical Certificate. This will need to be lodged with your Injury Claim Form. The CTP Insurance Claims Medical Certificate can be accessed here.
4. Lodge a CTP Injury Claim Form within six (6) months of the accident. The claim form can be accessed here.
You can lodge the claim form electronically or download a PDF version to complete. Ensure you include a copy of your driver’s licence and a copy of the Claims Medical Certificate completed by your doctor when lodging the claim form.
5. Contact the CTP Regulator on 1300 303 558 and quote the registration number of the at-fault vehicle.
The Regulator will advise which insurer will manage your claim and provide details of where to send your claim form.
6. Keep copies of all receipts and invoices for any medical treatment you have as a result of your injuries.
This might include receipts for visiting your doctor, physiotherapist, or buying medications.
7. Keep a record of any time you have off work as a result of your injuries.
8. Keep a record of any assistance provided to you by family members with your usual domestic tasks including cleaning and gardening, or help with personal care tasks such as showering and dressing.
9. See a Lawyer
The CTP Claims process can be complex and time-consuming. It is important to obtain advice from a lawyer early in the process to assess your options, and to ensure that appropriate compensation is obtained.
How can Andersons help?
There are a number of steps to take when you’ve been injured in a car accident to obtain compensation. This process can be overwhelming, especially if you’re experiencing pain as a result of your injuries.
Andersons has a team of lawyers who are experts in Compulsory Third Party (CTP) claims and who are here to help you through the process.
We offer a free 30-minute consultation to offer initial advice, assess your options and assist you in completing a CTP Injury Claim Form.
Get in contact with today’s writer, Julia Arena, or any of Andersons’ Personal Injury Claims Team to discuss your situation. Alternatively call our office on 8238 6666.