What is a violent crime?
Strictly speaking there is no legal definition of a violent crime, however the CICA normally require it to have involved a physical assault. This doesn’t always have to be the case, for example when there has been a psychiatric or psychological injury.
Examples of physical attacks which would usually qualify for compensation are contained within the CICA scheme. If your assault falls within one of the following, it is likely to be eligible for compensation:
Victim of Violence – you may be entitled to compensation.
A “crime of violence” is a crime which involves:
- a physical attack;
- anything else of a violent nature which causes physical injury;
- any kind of threat to a person which causes fear of immediate violence;
- a sexual assault where a person did not consent; or
- arson.
Unfortunately a crime of violence will not be covered in the eyes of the CICA if an injury:
- results from suicide or attempted suicide, unless the suicidal person intended to cause injury to someone else;
- results from the use of a vehicle, unless the vehicle was intended to be used to cause injury to someone;
- results from an animal attack, unless the animal was intended to be used to cause injury to someone;
- was sustained in the usual course of sporting or other activity where a person consented by taking part in that pastime; or
- was sustained by a baby during pregnancy as a result of harmful substances knowingly taken by the mother, with intent to cause, or being reckless as to, injury to the baby.
Negotiating your way through the CICA tariff is not straightforward so if you’ve suffered an injury due to an assault, contact us today to find out if your claim is covered and how much compensation you could receive.
