Claim scenarios
Injured as a Passenger in a Friend's Car
Overview
Being injured while riding as a passenger in a car driven by a friend or family member can bring up feelings that go beyond the accident itself, including worry about how a claim might affect that relationship. It helps to understand that a CTP claim is made against the vehicle's compulsory insurance, not against the driver personally. This page explains, in general terms, what being injured as a passenger in a friend's car can mean for accessing medical care in NSW.
Key points
- CTP insurance attaches to the vehicle, and a claim is generally directed at the insurer
- Being a passenger in a friend's car does not typically affect your ability to access the scheme
- A claim does not come out of your friend's personal finances
- How the driver's actions affect your claim depends on the circumstances
- Check SIRA and consider legal advice for your specific situation
Your situation
Work out where you stand
How we help
CTP Doctor is a medical service, not a law firm. We focus on the medical side, assessing your injuries by telehealth across NSW, or in person where appropriate — your doctor confirms which suits your injury — providing the certification the scheme requires, and documenting the impact on your work and daily life. Where appropriate, we coordinate physiotherapy, psychology and exercise physiology to support your recovery. Legal questions, including any concerns about the effect of a claim on your friend, are best directed to SIRA, and if you would like to speak with a solicitor, we can introduce you to an independent solicitor — no referral fees, no arrangement between us, the choice is yours.
What this means
Passengers injured in a motor vehicle accident, including one driven by a friend or family member, may be able to access the CTP scheme, since the compulsory insurance attaches to the registered vehicle rather than to the individual driver. This means a claim is generally directed at the insurer, not at your friend personally. The specifics of how this applies to your situation, including any effect of the driver's own actions, depend on the circumstances, so it is important to check SIRA and consider seeking legal advice. This is general information only and not advice about your particular claim.
This is general information, not legal advice — for the scheme rules check SIRA, and for legal questions speak to a solicitor.
Frequently asked questions
Next step
See a CTP doctor about it
Often seen within the week. Telehealth across NSW, or in person where appropriate. No claim number needed to start.