Minor vs Non-Minor Injury Under MAIA

The Motor Accident Injuries Act 2017 defines a “minor injury” in a specific legal way. It is not the same as “you feel fine” or “it was only soft tissue.” The definition includes particular soft tissue and psychological injury types below a statutory threshold, and insurers make formal decisions using medical reports and sometimes independent examinations.

This page explains why the label matters. It does not tell you which box you fall into — that is for the insurer (and potentially PIC or a court) after looking at evidence.

What changes if you are classified minor

Broadly, a minor injury classification limits how long certain statutory benefits can continue compared with someone who has a non-minor injury. It also affects whether you can pursue common law damages for pain and suffering and economic loss.

Exact time frames and entitlements are in the Act and SIRA publications — they are easier to read with a lawyer sitting beside you.

Who decides — not your Facebook group

The insurer issues a decision based on clinical records, certificates, imaging, and sometimes IME reports. Treating doctors do not “upgrade” you by writing adjectives; they document diagnoses, examination findings, and functional impact accurately. Lawyers challenge decisions when the evidence does not support the label.

Psychological injuries

Psychological conditions can be minor or non-minor under the statutory definitions, depending on diagnosis and how they sit against the threshold. Insurers may require psychiatric assessment. Our psychology colleagues work within clinical scope; legal arguments about classification sit with solicitors.

If you disagree with “minor”

You may have review rights. Do not delay — gather updated reports, ensure imaging and specialist opinions are on file, and brief a compensation lawyer if the stakes are high. Medically, we make sure the record reflects ongoing symptoms, restrictions, and treatment response.