Can I sue someone for an injury in New Zealand?

General information from Lawmateanz

Generally, no. New Zealand's ACC scheme covers personal injuries on a no-fault basis, and in return you can't sue anyone for compensation for an injury that ACC covers. That applies whether the injury happened at work, on the road, playing sport or at home.

Instead, ACC can help with treatment costs, weekly compensation if you can't work, and rehabilitation, whoever was at fault.

There are limited exceptions. In rare cases of outrageous conduct, the courts can award 'exemplary damages' to punish the person responsible. You can also still claim for losses ACC doesn't cover, such as damage to your property.

If ACC turns down your claim or you disagree with a decision, you can ask for an independent review.

ACC has information on what's covered, and free advocacy services and Community Law Centres can help with claims.

Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.

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General information only. Answers are written by independent lawyers based only on what's in the question. They aren't legal advice about your situation and don't create a lawyer–client relationship. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer directly.