Compare Life Insurance :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Uninsured Driver Denied Compensation in Dispute with QBE

Uninsured Driver Denied Compensation in Dispute with QBE

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has ruled in favour of QBE Insurance in a case where an uninsured driver attempted to secure compensation following a collision involving a fire truck.
The incident occurred when the QBE-insured driver paused at an intersection to allow a fire truck to pass, leading to the uninsured driver impacting their vehicle.

The uninsured motorist, disputing QBE's decision to hold him responsible and requiring payment for damages, sought redress through AFCA. He claimed the QBE-insurer's customer triggered the incident by stopping abruptly, without warning, following the fire truck's activation of sirens and lights.

Despite lacking dashcam footage, AFCA reviewed a Queensland Fire Department statement suggesting the distraction and subsequent collision were foreseeable due to the fire truck's presence at a blind corner. Although acknowledging that the QBE customer was potentially negligent for stopping suddenly without adequate warning, AFCA maintained the road rules require drivers to maintain a safe distance to prevent such accidents.

The adjudication concluded that a sufficient following distance was lacking, which could have otherwise allowed the uninsured driver to avert the collision, rendering the complaint unsubstantiated for coverage of his damages. Consequently, the tribunal found him responsible for a portion of the crash alongside the QBE-insured driver.

The ruling bars the uninsured from receiving compensation for his vehicle damage, legal fees, or money paid to QBE, citing jurisdiction limits. Yet, it mandated QBE to issue a $500 compensation for originally misleading the uninsured driver with incorrect statements regarding cost bearing.

Published:Friday, 21st Mar 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Calls for Super Funds to Accelerate Mental Health Insurance Claims Processing Calls for Super Funds to Accelerate Mental Health Insurance Claims Processing
11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Consumer advocates are raising concerns over significant delays in processing mental health-related insurance claims by Australian superannuation funds. As mental health conditions become a leading cause of total and permanent disability (TPD) claims, the efficiency of claim processing has come under scrutiny. - read more
GT Insurance Provides Flexible Solutions Amid Global Trade Shifts GT Insurance Provides Flexible Solutions Amid Global Trade Shifts
11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

As global trade dynamics undergo significant shifts, GT Insurance is reaffirming its commitment to supporting marine clients navigating these challenges. The recent imposition of US tariffs—25% on Australian steel and aluminium, and 10% on other exported goods—has introduced new uncertainties for local exporters, particularly in sectors like beef and bulk freight. These tariffs, effective from April 5, 2025, have prompted concerns about declining export volumes and reduced freight margins. - read more
Northern Australian Marinas Struggle with Rising Insurance Costs Northern Australian Marinas Struggle with Rising Insurance Costs
11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Marina operators in Northern Australia are confronting a significant crisis as insurance premiums escalate dramatically, with some experiencing increases exceeding 300% over recent years. This surge in costs is placing immense financial strain on the industry, prompting urgent calls for government intervention. - read more
Significant Rise in Australian Home Insurance Premiums in 2025 Significant Rise in Australian Home Insurance Premiums in 2025
11 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In 2025, Australian homeowners experienced a substantial increase in home and contents insurance premiums, with the average annual premium rising by 14%, equating to an additional $343. This surge has placed a significant financial burden on many households, prompting concerns about the affordability and accessibility of essential insurance coverage. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

The Essential Guide to Travel Insurance for Australians on a Working Holiday in Canada The Essential Guide to Travel Insurance for Australians on a Working Holiday in Canada
Welcome to your guide to embark on an amazing journey from Australia to the breathtaking landscapes of Canada on a working holiday. This adventure presents an inviting blend of work and travel, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in Canadian culture while supporting your explorations financially. - read more
Understanding Life Insurance: Securing Your Family's Future Understanding Life Insurance: Securing Your Family's Future
Defining life insurance and its importance: Life insurance is a pivotal financial product designed to protect your loved ones from economic hardship in case of your untimely death. It acts as a safety net, ensuring that your family can maintain their standard of living, cover outstanding debts, and afford future expenses like education and retirement. - read more
Understanding Life Insurance Needs: A Guide for Australian Families Understanding Life Insurance Needs: A Guide for Australian Families
Life insurance is a financial product designed to provide peace of mind by offering a safety net for your loved ones in the event of your passing. The primary purpose of life insurance is to ensure that your family is financially protected, allowing them to maintain their standard of living even without your income. - read more
Understanding the Tax Benefits of Income Protection Insurance in Australia Understanding the Tax Benefits of Income Protection Insurance in Australia
When hardship hits and earning a steady income becomes a challenge due to illness or injury, income protection insurance steps in as a crucial lifeline. This insurance acts much like a monetary buffer, providing you with a percentage of your regular income during times when you're unable to work. It's designed to offer peace of mind and stability, not just for you, but also for your dependents who rely on your financial support. - read more


Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Life Cover Amount:
Postcode:


All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Knowledgebase
Insurance Deductible:
That part of an insurance claim that must be paid by an insured person before the the balance is paid by the insurer.