18 Aug 2003
The intrathoracic pressure that fractured the rib was an internal force; atmospheric pressure is a neutral environmental condition and a lack of resistance is not encompassed by the statutory definition of 'accident'. Therefore the fractured rib from coughing was not caused by an 'accident' under s28 and the respondent's declinature of cover was correctly affirmed.
3 Jul 2001
Where an injury results from internal interaction of body parts or transfer of body weight without impact or resistance from an external source, it does not qualify as an "accident" under s28; body weight and gravity are not external forces, and appellant failed to prove on the balance of probabilities that the earlier shower fall caused the tear.
21 Jan 1999
Under s3 of the 1992 Act the appellant's injury was not an "accident" because there was no application of a force or resistance external to the body; the injury resulted from internal interaction of spinal structures during a sudden twisting movement and therefore did not meet the statutory requirement for cover.