A road accident can change your life in seconds.
You may be left with injuries, medical bills, time off work, or the loss of a loved one. In many cases, people are unsure what they can claim or where to start.
This guide explains the basics of Road Accident Fund (RAF) claims in South Africa, who can claim, what compensation may be available, and how the process works.
What is the Road Accident Fund?
The Road Accident Fund (RAF) is a South African public entity that compensates people injured in road accidents caused by the negligence of a motor vehicle driver.
It is not vehicle insurance. It is focused on personal injury and related financial loss.
Depending on the case, compensation may include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Loss of income or earning ability
- Loss of support for dependants
- Funeral expenses
- General damages for serious injuries
Who can claim from the Road Accident Fund?
You may be able to claim if you were:
- A driver
- A passenger
- A pedestrian
- A cyclist or other road user
In fatal accidents, dependants may claim for loss of support, and funeral costs may also be claimed.
However, not every accident automatically results in compensation. Each claim depends on the facts and legal requirements.
What can you claim?
RAF claims are usually made up of different types of losses.
Medical expenses
You can claim for hospital treatment, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical care where needed.
Loss of income
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may claim for lost income and future earning capacity.
Loss of support
If a family member dies in a road accident, dependants may claim for the financial support they would have received.
Funeral expenses
Reasonable funeral costs may be claimed in fatal accident cases.
General damages
This covers pain and sufferi
How does a RAF claim work?
While every case is different, the process generally includes:
- Gathering evidence
This includes:
- Accident details and police reports
- Witness information
- Medical records and reports
- Photos and documentation
- Medical assessment
Your injuries must be properly documented. Serious injury claims may require a formal assessment.
- Submitting the claim
A completed RAF claim form and supporting documents must be submitted. Missing information can delay or affect your claim.
- RAF assessment
The RAF reviews:
- Whether the claim is valid
- Who was responsible for the accident
- The value of your losses
How long do you have to claim?
Time limits are strict.
- Generally 3 years if the driver is known
- Generally 2 years if the driver is unknown (hit-and-run cases)
Delays can result in a claim prescribing, so it is important to act early.
What documents do you need for a Road Accident Fund?
Common documents include:
- ID document
- Police or accident report
- Medical records and accounts
- Proof of income (if claiming loss of earnings)
- Witness details (if available)
- Funeral documents (if applicable)
Why RAF claims become complicated
Many claims are delayed or reduced because of:
- Disputes about who caused the accident
- Missing or incomplete documents
- Difficulty proving income loss
- Serious injury requirements not being met
- Incorrect or incomplete claim forms
Proper preparation is essential.
Do you need a lawyer for a RAF claim?
You are allowed to submit a claim to the Road Accident Fund yourself.
However, legal assistance is often helpful where:
- Injuries are serious
- Liability is disputed
- Loss of income is significant
- The claim is complex or high value
An attorney can help ensure your claim is properly prepared and supported.
What should you do after a road accident fund?
If you are involved in an accident:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Report the accident to the police
- Collect evidence where possible
- Keep all medical and financial records
- Get legal advice early if needed
Final thoughts
A RAF claim is not just paperwork; it is about recovering the financial impact of a serious life event. The process can be complex, especially when injuries are serious or long-term.
Getting the right guidance early can make a significant difference to your claim.
PM Attorneys assists clients with Road Accident Fund claims, from initial assessment through to final settlement. If you’ve been injured in a road accident, we can help you understand your rights and your claim.
