Motor vehicle accidents
If you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident, MEJ can help you understand what comes next.
In the ACT you can make an application for personal injury benefits under the Motor Accident Injuries Scheme. The process you follow will differ depending on your situation.
Accidents Happen
At MEJ, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a motor accident can take on your life. Our dedicated team of experienced motor accident lawyers is here to guide you through the claims process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Whether you’ve been injured in a car, motorcycle, truck, or pedestrian accident, we are committed to providing personalised and compassionate legal representation.
If you are entitled to bring a claim, we can assist by gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary. Our goal is to alleviate the stress of dealing with the aftermath of an accident, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
MEJ will fight for your rights, securing the maximum settlement for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
For your peace of mind, we also act on a no-win, no-fee basis. Our dedicated motor accident legal team knows what it’s like to take on the insurance companies and win. We do it every day. We look forward to using our experience to work with you to ensure you get maximum compensation.
The claim process
Navigating the ACT motor accident claims process can be complex, but understanding each step can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
1. Immediate Steps Post-Accident
Immediately after an accident, ensure everyone’s safety and call emergency services if needed. It’s important to report the accident to the police, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage.
If police did not attend the accident, you should report the accident online or at a police station within 24 hours. Visit ACT Policing’s website for more information on how to report a motor accident.
Collect essential information such as the other driver’s details (name, address, license number, and insurance information), witness contacts, and take photographs of the accident scene and damages.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Obtain a thorough medical assessment as soon as possible, even if injuries seem minor. Accurate medical records are crucial for substantiating your claim.
Keep detailed records of all medical consultations, treatments, and expenses related to the accident.
3. Notifying the Insurer
Inform the relevant CTP insurer (the insurer of the at-fault vehicle) about the accident. This is done by completing the relevant claim forms, which should be lodged within 13 weeks of the accident.
4. Seek Legal Advice:
Navigating the CTP claims process can be challenging. Engaging a lawyer experienced in motor accident claims can provide invaluable assistance, ensuring all aspects of your claim are handled correctly and that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Getting the help you need after a car crash or bike accident doesn’t need to be complicated. Organise a free no-obligation consultation online or by phone and take the first step towards rebuilding your life.
Could I make a claim?
Contact us“We came to you at a pretty stressful period and the guidance and support that you extended to us has been invaluable.”
— Pia and Andrew
Frequently Asked Questions
The Motor Accident Injuries Act 2019 (ACT) introduced a significant structural change to the ACT scheme for accidents from 1 February 2020, moving to a predominantly no-fault statutory benefits framework, with a separate pathway to common law damages for those with serious injuries.
If your injuries have resulted in a permanent impairment, you may also be entitled to a ‘quality of life’ benefit, and in some circumstances, a common law damages claim. Please do not make assumptions about your entitlements without speaking to us first. The scheme is more complex than it appears, and many injured people are entitled to more than they realise.
Yes. In the ACT, you may still be entitled to motor accident compensation even if you were partly at fault. Your compensation may be reduced to reflect your share of responsibility, but you should not assume you have no claim without obtaining legal advice. Many injured drivers are surprised to learn they remain eligible for statutory benefits and, in some cases, common law damages.
You may still be able to make a claim. In most ACT motor vehicle accident claims, compensation is paid through the compulsory third party (CTP) insurance scheme rather than personally by the at-fault driver. Even if the other driver was uninsured or unidentified, there are statutory mechanisms that may provide access to compensation. Early legal advice is important in these situations.
The timeframe for a motor vehicle accident claim depends on the nature and severity of your injuries, whether your condition has stabilised, and whether liability or medical issues are disputed. Some claims resolve within months. More complex matters involving serious injuries or court proceedings may take several years. A structured and proactive approach can often improve prospects of early resolution.
Yes. Injured passengers may be entitled to make a motor accident compensation claim, regardless of which driver was at fault. Passenger claims are commonly made against the CTP insurer of the at-fault vehicle and may include compensation for medical expenses, loss of income and pain and suffering, depending on the circumstances.