The Road Accident Fund: What You Need To Know

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) plays a crucial role in providing compensation to individuals who have suffered injuries or financial loss due to motor vehicle accidents in South Africa. Funded through a government fuel levy, the RAF offers support not only to accident victims but also to the dependents of individuals who have tragically passed away as a result of such incidents.

Who Can Claim from the RAF?

The RAF provides compensation for individuals who have:

• Suffered injuries in a motor vehicle accident.
• Lost a family member who was financially supporting them.
• Incurred medical expenses due to an accident.
• Lost income or earning capacity as a result of an accident.

Key Timeframes to Remember

When lodging a claim, time is of the essence:

• Hit-and-run accidents: Claims must be lodged within 2 years.
• Known driver accidents: Claims must be lodged within 3 years.
• Summons issuance: Must be served within 5 years of the accident.

Missing these deadlines can result in the claim being prescribed, meaning you lose your right to claim. If you’re unsure about your timelines, our team at Stefan Greyling Inc. is happy to assist.

What Can You Claim For?

The RAF allows claims for five categories of damages:

1. Past medical expenses: Medical costs already incurred.
2. Future medical expenses: Estimated costs of ongoing and future treatment.
3. Past loss of earnings: Income lost due to the accident.
4. Future loss of earning capacity: Potential future income impacted by injuries.
5. General damages: Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of life quality.

Why Professional Assistance Matters

While it’s possible to lodge a claim directly with the RAF, the process can be overwhelming. From obtaining medical reports to navigating legal requirements, many find it challenging to manage independently. Our experienced attorneys work on a no-win-no-fee basis, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve without upfront costs.

Let us take the stress out of your RAF claim. Contact Stefan Greyling Inc. today to schedule a free consultation.