If you’ve had an accident in New Zealand, you’ve probably heard of ACC—the Accident Compensation Corporation. It’s there to help when injuries happen but figuring out what’s covered (and what’s not) can be a bit tricky. Let’s break it down in a simple, no-nonsense way.
What Does ACC Cover?
ACC steps in for injuries caused by accidents—think falls, car accidents, workplace mishaps, and sports injuries. They also cover treatment injuries (like when something goes wrong during medical care) and injuries from crimes, such as assault.
What’s Not Covered?
ACC doesn’t cover illnesses, age-related conditions, or injuries that happen slowly over time unless they can be directly linked to a workplace activity. So, if you develop arthritis naturally, that’s not covered. But if an accident makes an existing condition worse, or you develop post-traumatic arthritis, ACC might be able to help.
What Kind of Support Can You Get?
If ACC approves your claim, they can help with medical costs, rehab, income compensation if you can’t work, travel costs, and support to help you get back to your normal routine. If your injury causes a permanent loss of function, you might also be eligible for a lump-sum payment.
A Few Key Things to Keep in Mind
- ACC is a no-fault system, meaning it doesn’t matter who caused the accident—you can still get support.
- Get your claim in quickly- waiting too long can affect your eligibility.
- If ACC declines your claim, you can challenge their decision.
Dealing with an injury is tough enough without having to stress about what ACC will or won’t cover. If you’re unsure, reach out—it’s always worth checking your options!
If you need independent guidance, Way Finders is here to help you not only understand your rights but also take control of your claim, navigate the system with confidence, and get the best possible outcome.
