COMMISSION MAKES FIRST COMPENSATION

PAYMENT FOR SCHOOL ACCIDENTS

The Accident Compensation Commission of Fiji (ACCF) made its first payments to victims of school accidents. This was made possible since the no fault compensation scheme was extended to school accidents, pursuant to the Accident Compensation (School Accidents) Regulations 2018, which came into force from January 1, 2019.

The two payments are for separate accidents. The first occurred on February 20, 2019, when a pupil was playing in an Under-19 rugby league match between Queen Victoria School (QVS) and Naitasiri Secondary School. The pupil clashed with another player resulting in serious injuries to his jaw, including fractures. Given the extent of his permanent incapacity, the pupil was paid $21,000 in compensation.

The second accident application was received from the father of an injured pupil, who was under the age of 18. On July 18, 2019, the pupil was punched in the face by another pupil after he had complained to the teacher about the other pupil. As a result of the assault the pupil lost some of his front teeth. Given the extent of his permanent incapacity, the pupil was paid $3000 in compensation.

Upon receiving both the applications and all relevant information, ACCF processed it in a timely manner and assessed their compensation in accordance with the Accident Compensation Act 2017 and Regulations. When receiving their compensation both the applicants thanked the ACCF team.

Under the Accident Compensation (School Accidents) Regulations 2018 compensation is payable for injuries or death due to an accident occurring on any school premises or during a school event or activity.

A pupil includes a person of any age for whom education is provided under the provisions of the Education Act 1966 and any person enrolled on any school register. Teachers and pupils are encouraged to take personal responsibility and all necessary steps to prevent school accidents. Parents and/or legal guardians should also talk to their children about safety in school.

For enquiries regarding compensation for school accidents, ACCF can be contacted on 3235990 and www.accf.com.fj