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If I am in an accident, can I sue for damages?

In New Zealand you cannot sue anyone for compensatory damages if you are injured. Instead, all accident victims are entitled to free hospital treatment, and ACC helps to pay for the cost of your care.

ACC is the government-run accident insurance scheme that covers all residents. The scheme is managed by Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) and covers the full range of personal injuries.

If your injury stops you from working, ACC pays weekly compensation, usually based on 80% of your weekly income before tax. It can also help with residential nursing care, home help and childcare, as well as subsidising transport and training costs while you recover. In some cases involving permanent physical impairment, compensation, or ‘lump sum’ financial payments are also made.

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