How the CTP Claim Process Works in Queensland

Compulsory third party, or CTP, insurance may become relevant after a motor vehicle accident in Queensland where a person has sustained injury.

The following information provides a general overview of the CTP claim process in Queensland, including reporting, claim forms, insurer involvement, medical evidence and settlement steps.

Reporting the Accident

A motor vehicle accident may need to be reported to police, depending on the circumstances. Under the Motor Accident Insurance Act a person intending to make a claim (the claimant) for personal injuries must notify police of the accident. In some cases, police will have attended the accident scene, and will make a report. In other cases, the claimant may be required to notify the police and provide details of the accident.

When the accident is reported, it will assist to keep a record of any police reference number, event number or other information provided.

This information will be required when completing CTP claim documentation.

Identifying the CTP Insurer

In Queensland, registered motor vehicles generally have CTP insurance as part of the vehicle registration process.

The relevant CTP insurer may depend on the vehicle involved and the circumstances of the accident. If the at-fault vehicle is unidentified or uninsured, a claim may be made against the Nominal Defendant.

Information about a vehicle’s CTP insurer may be obtained through Queensland registration or insurer search processes.

Completing a Notice of Accident Claim Form

A CTP claim process generally involves completing and submitting a Notice of Accident Claim form.

The form may require information about:

• The accident;
• The vehicles involved;
• The people involved;
• The injuries sustained;
• Medical treatment received;
• Employment or income information;
• Witnesses; and
• Supporting documents.

Different requirements and timeframes may apply depending on the circumstances of the accident.

Medical Certificates and Supporting Documents

Medical information is often relevant in the CTP claim process, and you will need to submit a Medical Certificate with your Notice of Accident Claim Form in Queensland.

Supporting documents that would be worth keep record of may include:

• Medical certificates;
• Hospital records;
• General practitioner records;
• Specialist reports;
• Imaging or scan results;
• Rehabilitation records;
• Pharmacy receipts;
• Treatment invoices; and
• Documents relating to time away from work.

It is important that medical practitioners are provided with accurate information about how the accident occurred and the symptoms experienced.

Insurer Review and Response

After CTP claim documents are submitted, the insurer may review the material provided and request further information.

The insurer may consider issues including:

• Whether the claim form has been properly completed;
• Whether required documents have been provided;
• The circumstances of the accident;
• Medical information;
• Liability issues; and
• Rehabilitation or treatment needs.

The insurer may also communicate with the person making the claim, medical providers, employers or other parties involved in the matter.

Liability and Further Assessment

As part of the process, a CTP insurer will consider liability, including how the accident occurred and whether another person’s driving caused or contributed to the accident.

Medical evidence and other documents may also be considered when assessing the nature and extent of any injuries.

In some matters, independent medical assessments may be arranged as part of the claim process.

Rehabilitation and Treatment Information

Treatment and rehabilitation may be relevant during the CTP process.

Records relating to treatment, recovery, rehabilitation and ongoing symptoms may assist in documenting the progression of an injury following a motor vehicle accident.

Settlement Steps

Some CTP matters may resolve through negotiation or settlement processes after relevant information has been exchanged.

Different steps may apply depending on the circumstances of the matter, the issues in dispute and the information available.

Further information about motor vehicle accident matters is available on our motor vehicle accident services page.

The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice.