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Car Accident Law in Canberra, Australia primarily revolves around the Federal Motor Accidents Insurance (MAI) Act. This law ensures that anyone injured in a motor vehicle accident is entitled to necessary and reasonable treatment, care, and support, irrespective of who was at fault. Besides, there are specific rules for compensation claims for those not at fault in an accident.
You may need legal assistance in the following circumstances:
Under the Road Transport (Third-Party Insurance) Act 2008 in Canberra, all vehicle owners are required to maintain third-party insurance. This insurance covers you for injuries you may cause to others in an accident. According to the MAI Act, you can lodge a claim application through an online portal within 13 weeks of the accident but it is highly recommended to lodge the application as soon as possible.
Even if the accident was your fault, under the MAI Act, you are entitled to receive necessary and reasonable treatment, care and support. But unlike a not-at-fault claim, this only includes medical expenses and lost wages if you were unable to work as a result of your injuries.
You have up to two years to lodge a compensation claim. However, it is highly recommended to start the process as soon as possible.
Under the Act, every Canberra driver should have third-party insurance. If the other driver doesn't have insurance, they're in breach of the law and could face serious penalties. Regardless, your claim will still be handled by Canberra’s Motor Accident Injuries Commission.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to dispute the decision. At this stage, it's recommended to seek a lawyer’s guidance as the process can be complex.
Yes, passengers injured in a car accident are indeed eligible for compensation, irrespective of who was at fault.
In getting legal advice, it can be beneficial to consult with the legal services provided by Canberra's Motor Accident Injuries Commission and Legal Aid ACT. Local community legal centres, like the Canberra Community Law, can also provide valuable insights.
If you believe you need legal assistance, the first step would be to collect all the necessary documentation and evidence related to your accident. The next would be to reach out to a lawyer specializing in car accident law to guide you through the legal proceedings. Remember to act promptly to ensure your claims are lodged within the required timeframe.
