A guide to journey claims in Vic

Generally, any employee who obtains work-related injuries and illnesses, whether physical or psychological, may claim compensation as provided by the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2013. But what if an accident happens when they’re travelling to or from work?

In most territories, employers aren’t mandated to include such coverage in their employees’ policies. However, companies can add Journey Accident Policy to their workers’ benefits packages. Affected individuals may be eligible to claim compensation from agencies like the Transport Accident Commission or TAC.

As policies and regulations vary from state to state, it’s essential to consult legal experts like personal injury lawyers in Melbourne. This article can help you gain a basic understanding of Journey claims in Victoria while waiting for an appointment with a lawyer.

What is the Journey accident coverage?

Road accidents can impact people of all ages, including the working population. Journey accident insurance covers workers and their nominated beneficiaries who may be in work-related accidents, particularly while travelling to and from the office. Moreover, covered individuals may be eligible to claim compensation and specific types of support not provided by the workers’ compensation legislation.

Most private insurance companies offer this type of coverage. The injured worker may also claim specific compensation before the TAC.

Who are eligible for Journey claims under TAC?

Victoria’s Transportation Accident Commission TAC supports road users injured in a vehicle crash regardless of who may have caused it. They also cover workers who are injured or die in road accidents while journeying between work and home. In addition, journey claims may protect workers travelling to and from a training venue and their office or residence.

What are the primary benefits of a Journey insurance policy?

When getting Journey coverage from private insurers, it’s crucial to read the fine print or consult an insurance professional or a lawyer to understand the terms and conditions. The same goes for claims you’re planning to file under TAC Victoria. Generally, though, the Commission provides the following benefits subject to evaluation and approval:

• Lump sum benefits for individuals who acquire a permanent total disability.
• Weekly benefits covering specific expenses for up to two years.
• Payment of reasonable medical and like expenses.
• Lump sum benefits, weekly benefits and medical expenses for dependants of those killed in a car accident
• Lump sum benefits for individuals needing dental procedures, on top of the compensation, but covers only the gap from private insurance companies, if applicable
• Other entitlements as applicable

Private insurers

Not all policies are the same. However, most third-party insurance companies provide the following benefits for eligible Journey insurance policyholders.

• Lump sum payment for permanent disability and death
• Funeral and burial expenses in case of death
• Home relocation and renovations to accommodate a permanent disability
• Income replacement of up to 85%, with the period depending on the evaluation
• Rehabilitation and treatment costs coverage
• Payment for pieces of specialised equipment
• Credit card debt payments
• Compensation for fractures

How to file a Journey claim

In general, there are three essential processes a claimant must go through in filing a Journey accident claim.

1. Report the injury to your employer

Your company’s human resources (HR) staff and your direct supervisor are the best persons to contact if you get involved in an accident. Ideally, they must provide essential information and explain the proper procedures for claiming any compensation, including Journey coverage claims.

2. Seek medical help

Seek medical attention to ensure your health and well-being. Keep all your receipts and documents and ask for medical certification from the physicians or specialists caring for you.

3. Submit the forms

The Journey claim form must be submitted alongside the workers’ compensation document, online or through the mail. A journey claim form is a two-page document that lets a claimant briefly discuss the vehicle, the accident, and the other cars involved.

Conclusion

Journey claims are essential workers’ benefits that every staff member must know about, especially those who often travel for work. Companies must consider getting one to reduce upfront costs and help retain employees’ dignity and well-being.

Because of the differences in laws and compensation schemes, injured workers must be informed and updated by contacting their employers, the agencies concerned, and a lawyer in case of disputes. Working with legal counsel ensures that an affected employee gets all the benefits they’re entitled to.

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