Accident or Tragedy? Compensation for Suicide and Self-Inflicted Injuries under the ACC Scheme

Abstract

... This paper analyses the place of suicide and wilfully self-inflicted injuries within the ACC scheme. The paper will begin by outlining historical laws regarding suicide up until the present day, revealing how attitudes of society have changed. Next, the place of suicide and wilfully self-inflicted injuries within the various pieces of ACC legislation over the years will be examined, accompanied by the reasons given for the most recent amendments. This will be followed by an analysis of the principles laid down by the Woodhouse Report and how these relate to suicide and wilfully self-inflicted injuries. Finally, issues regarding the justification for disentitlement under the current ACC scheme will be addressed ...