The clock is ticking: How long do I have to make an injury claim in Queensland?

Recovering from any physical or psychological injury is hard. Many of our clients find some solace in taking action with their compensation claim as soon as possible. In this blog, we list some of the most common personal injury claims and the time frames within which you need to start them.

Motor Accident

If you’ve been hurt in a motor vehicle accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation.  The severity of injuries sustained in these accidents can mean long work lay-offs, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and lost earnings – all of which you should be compensated for.

In Queensland you have nine months from the date of the injury to make a claim, and one month once you have sought legal advice. To help your claim, we stress that you must make a police report as soon as possible after the accident.

Workers’ Compensation

You can make a compensation claim if the injury you suffered at work was because of your employer’s negligence or misconduct. The time limit in Queensland to make a workers’ compensation claim is six months from the time of the incident.

Unfair Dismissal

If you feel you were forced to resign or were unfairly dismissed from your job, you have 21 days form the date of dismissal to make an application to the Fair Work Commission for reinstatement or compensation.

Medical Negligence

Sadly, not all health care is equal, and injury by a medical professional is not uncommon. If you feel you have been denied the proper standard of care of received an incorrect diagnosis that lead to more pain and suffering, then you can file a medical negligence claim against the practitioner in question. In Queensland  you have three years from the date of “discovery” of the negligence to process a claim.

Public Liability 

People can be injured in public places because of negligence by the relevant authorities. If, for example, you slip or fall in a supermarket, shopping centre or outdoor public space, you are protected  under public liability law and can make a compensation claim. Claims must be filed within three years from the date of the accident.

Super fund and Disability Claims

If injury or illness stops you from working, you may be able to gain early access to your superannuation or employer disability insurance. This is a welcome safeguard against extreme financial hardship. Your claim for disability benefits must be lodged within two years of permanently stopping work.

Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers has been helping injured people for more than 40 years. Call us today on 1800-730-842 and book your free initial interview, or register your details here and we’ll be in touch soon.