Crisis Guide

How to Claim from the Road Accident Fund (RAF) in South Africa

Injured in a car accident in South Africa? The Road Accident Fund provides no-fault compensation for injuries, loss of income, and funeral costs. Claim before the three-year deadline.

Free South African Law

Direct Answer

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) compensates persons injured in motor vehicle accidents in South Africa — for medical costs, loss of income, and general damages. You do not need to prove the driver was at fault. Claims must be lodged within three years of the accident or the date you became aware of your injuries.

What the Law Says

Your Legal Foundation

Road Accident Fund Act 56 of 1996

Section 17

“The Fund is liable to compensate any person (other than the person driving the vehicle) for bodily injury or death caused by or arising from the negligent driving of a motor vehicle.”

Road Accident Fund Amendment Act 19 of 2005

Various

“The RAF provides: general damages (pain and suffering), medical costs, loss of income, and funeral costs. Claims for general damages require a Serious Injury Assessment.”

Immediate Steps

What to Do Right Now

1Report the accident to police within 48 hours and get a case number (CAS number). This is required for the RAF claim.
2Get a medical report from your treating doctor within 48 hours. Injuries must be documented from the start.
3Complete RAF1 form and submit to the RAF with your ID, police report, medical reports, and proof of loss of income. Engage a personal injury attorney — many work on contingency.
4Have a Serious Injury Assessment if claiming general damages. A doctor must assess using the AMA Guides and confirm 30%+ whole person impairment (or a serious listed condition).

What to Say

Exact Words to Use

“"I was injured in a motor vehicle accident and I want to claim from the Road Accident Fund."”

Tone: polite

“"My injuries are documented and my claim was lodged within three years of the accident."”

Tone: assertive

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the RAF pay if the accident was my fault?

No — you cannot claim against the RAF for your own injuries if you were the negligent driver. Passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers can claim.

How long does a RAF claim take?

Simple claims: six to 18 months. Complex claims: two to five years. The RAF has a statutory obligation to settle within agreed timelines.

Do I need a lawyer to claim from the RAF?

Not legally required, but strongly advised. Personal injury attorneys handle most RAF claims on contingency — no upfront fee, they take a percentage of the settlement.

Get Help Now

Resources & Helplines

Road Accident Fund

0860 23 55 23 | raf.co.za

Lodge and track claims
Legal Aid South Africa

0800 110 110

Free legal assistance for indigent claimants

Continue Learning

Practise Your Rights — Out Loud

The Advocate helps you practise the exact words to use in 149 real South African scenarios — grounded in constitutional law and Scripture. Free to start.

Open The Advocate — Free

No credit card needed · Know Your Rights. Know Your Word.

Get the free rights checklist

10 scenarios, exact words to use, constitutional references. No credit card.