Truck Insurance Online :: News

Share this news item!

Horse Accident Claim Rejected: A Deeper Look into Trauma Insurance

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

An individual who sustained serious injuries from a horse riding accident has been denied a trauma insurance payout, as authorities concluded that there is insufficient proof that her condition is irreversible.

The incident occurred on October 16 of the previous year, leading to a significant pelvic fracture for the claimant, followed by surgery a few days later. The woman has stated that her day-to-day activities have been severely affected as a result.

Currently, she is undergoing physiotherapy and taking medication to improve her mobility. Her orthopaedic surgeon, identified as Dr NJ, has reported that she exhibits "debilitating symptoms affecting her left leg and foot."

Despite these symptoms, Dr NJ remarked that it might take 18 to 24 months to see improvement, and confirmed that predicting a permanent condition is complex at this stage.

Clearview Life Assurance refused the claim, citing that their policy's "loss of independent existence" clause necessitates a permanent inability to perform at least two daily activities independently.

In June, the complainant's general physician noted that she requires crutches for mobility and is incapable of handling tasks such as shopping, laundry, food preparation, or housecleaning.

The claimant also stated she suffers from cognitive impairment and has not shown any nerve recovery since the incident. She contends it would be unreasonable to assume her condition will improve over time.

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) acknowledged the severity of her disability but indicated that the current medical advice suggests she could eventually recover.

"Dr NJ is in the best position to opine on the permanence of the disability, given his specialty and ongoing treatment of the complainant," AFCA noted. "He has said it's 'too early to declare a permanent condition' and has outlined the further testing and treatments that are in progress and planned."

Nonetheless, AFCA's decision leaves the door open for the claimant to present new medical evidence at a future point that might confirm the permanence of her disability.

"It may be possible for her to demonstrate with subsequent medical evidence that her disability is permanent," AFCA said. "However, based on the current evidence, I am not convinced her disability is permanent or irreversible."

This case offers a critical view into the complexities and challenges associated with trauma insurance claims and highlights the necessity for clear and definite medical proof in establishing the permanence of a condition.

Published:Tuesday, 1st Oct 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

AFCA Mandates Insurer Payout for Engine Overheating Incident

10 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently ruled in favour of a truck owner whose insurance claim was initially denied following an engine overheating incident. This decision underscores the complexities surrounding insurance claims related to driver negligence and mechanical failures. - read more

AFCA Supports Insurer in Truck Theft Claim Denial

10 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently upheld an insurer's decision to deny a truck theft claim, citing misrepresentation of the insured's insurance history. This ruling highlights the critical importance of accurate disclosure when obtaining insurance coverage. - read more

AFCA Sides with Freight Company in Dangerous Goods Disclosure Case

10 Feb 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently ruled in favour of a freight company in a dispute over the disclosure of transporting dangerous goods. This decision provides valuable insights into the obligations of transport companies regarding insurance disclosures. - read more

Heightened Road Risks During Holiday Season Due to Increased Freight Traffic

25 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

As Australia enters the summer holiday season, insurers and transport specialists are raising alarms about heightened road risks resulting from the convergence of increased freight activity and holiday travel. This period sees a significant uptick in both passenger vehicles and heavy trucks on the roads, amplifying the potential for accidents and safety incidents. - read more

Celebrating Excellence: 2025 National Trucking Industry Award Winners

25 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) has proudly announced the recipients of the 2025 National Trucking Industry Awards, recognizing outstanding contributions and achievements within the sector. These awards highlight the dedication and excellence of individuals and organizations that drive the industry forward. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Truck Insurance Articles

Why truck owners need a specialist insurance broker

Truck owners require insurance cover that can protect them from unexpected financial loss. However, finding the best coverage and policies can be a daunting task, especially for truck owners who are not familiar with insurance policies and coverage requirements. This is why truck owners need the services of a specialist insurance broker who can guide them through the process of finding the right insurance coverage. - read more

Risk Management for Truckers: How the Right Insurance Can Protect Your Livelihood

Trucking plays a pivotal role in bolstering the economy, serving as the lifeblood that transports essential goods across vast distances. It is a profession that demands not just skill and precision, but also a deep understanding of the risks that come with the territory. Managing these risks effectively is crucial for the protection and continuation of your operations. - read more

5 Tips for Finding the Most Cost-Effective Truck Insurance in Australia

For truck owners and operators traversing the unique and varied landscapes of Australia, securing the right insurance isn't just a regulatory necessity—it's a vital component of their business's livelihood. The heavy haulage industry faces distinctive challenges and risks, from navigating narrow country roads to complying with strict transport regulations, each requiring tailored insurance solutions. Understanding the critical balance between comprehensive coverage and cost-effectiveness can mark the difference between business stability and financial vulnerability in an already competitive market. - read more

Top 5 Mistakes Truck Owners Make When Filing Insurance Claims

Owning a truck in Australia comes with its own set of responsibilities, and one of the most crucial of these is ensuring that you have the right insurance coverage. Truck insurance is not just a legal requirement but a safety net that protects your investment and livelihood against unforeseen events. - read more

Understanding the Key Factors That Influence Truck Insurance Pricing in Australia

In Australia, trucking plays a vital role in keeping the economy on the move, often covering vast distances across the country. Therefore, securing the right truck insurance is not just a legal requirement but also a financial safeguard for operators and businesses. Truck insurance provides coverage for risks associated with operating commercial vehicles, protecting against damages, theft, and liability. - read more

Knowledgebase

Insurance Deductible:
the amount that an insured is required to contribute toward an insurance claim as stipulated in an insurance policy. Otherwise known as the "policy excess".

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.

IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.