Whether you were injured on the job or in a car accident, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“How much should I be getting?”
The answer?
It depends. But here’s what we do know:
A lot of people are being underpaid.
Insurers rarely offer what you’re truly entitled to — especially if you don’t know what to ask for.
Understanding Compensation Payouts in SA
South Australians injured at work or in road accidents may be entitled to compensation under two schemes:
- ReturnToWorkSA – for workplace injuries
- Compulsory Third Party (CTP) – for motor vehicle injuries
Each has different rules, but in both cases, your payout may include:
✅ Income support for time off work
✅ Payment for medical and rehab expenses
✅ Lump sum payments for permanent impairment
✅ Compensation for future loss of income
✅ Pain and suffering damages (in some cases)
What Influences Your Injury Payout?
Compensation is based on multiple factors, including:
📄 Medical reports & diagnoses
💼 Your income before the injury
📉 Your capacity to return to work
🧠 Mental and emotional impact
📆 How long the injury affects your life
🔍 Whether you have legal representation
Even two people with similar injuries might receive very different payouts — because one got help early, and the other didn’t.
Why Online Calculators Are Misleading
You might find “injury payout calculators” online that promise a quick estimate. But these tools:
❌ Don’t factor in the full complexity of your situation
❌ Can’t assess the strength of your medical evidence
❌ Often give you a number that’s far too low
They’re a marketing gimmick. Not a legal opinion.
Signs You Might Be Getting Undersold
Insurers often offer low initial settlements hoping you’ll accept quickly.
Here are red flags you’re being lowballed:
- You’re told it’s a “standard amount” with no breakdown
- You haven’t received a full medical assessment
- You were pressured to settle early
- You don’t understand the offer, but feel rushed to accept
Before signing anything, get a second opinion.
Get Your Claim Reviewed – Free
At Mahony’s Lawyers, we offer free reviews of injury compensation offers.
We’ll tell you:
- What you should really be receiving
- What evidence might improve your case
- Whether it’s time to push for more
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average compensation for a car accident injury in SA?
It varies depending on severity. Minor soft-tissue injuries might result in a few thousand dollars, while permanent injuries can exceed $100,000+.
How much can I get for a workplace injury?
You may be entitled to weekly income, medical expenses, and a lump sum if you suffer permanent impairment. Every case is different — get a review before accepting any offer.
Will getting a lawyer increase my payout?
In most cases, yes. A lawyer ensures your claim is properly prepared, your evidence is strong, and you don’t leave money on the table.
Is it too late to get legal advice if I’ve already made a claim?
Not at all. You can get advice at any stage — but the earlier, the better.