RAF claims must be submitted within three years of the date of the accident if the wrongdoer is identified. In the case of a hit-and-run accident, you must submit your claim within two years of the date of the accident.
How do I claim for future expenses or losses?
You have only one chance to claim. If you settle for an inadequate sum, you have no further recourse (save if you were incorrectly advised).
A suitably qualified attorney will ensure that your claim takes likely future expenses arising because of your injury into account.
A specialist attorney will refer you to the appropriate medical and para-medical specialists for detailed advice about your diagnosis, treatment and prognosis, including the likely long-term impact of your injury.
Where it’s possible that your injuries will affect your ability to earn an income, either temporarily or permanently, the attorney will also refer you to experts regarding career progression and remuneration in your field, and to actuaries who can accurately calculate future losses.
Do I need an attorney to submit a claim to the RAF?
It’s possible to submit a claim to the RAF independently, but we strongly advise against doing this.
An attorney familiar with RAF claims and typical settlements will have a clear idea of what’s in your best interests. The attorney will guide you through the process of claiming, from determining how much you can claim to gathering the necessary evidence and documentation to support your claim, filing the claim, tracking its progress and following up if there are unusual delays.
An attorney can also negotiate on your behalf with the Road Accident Fund and advise you on whether to accept an early settlement, if one is offered. Contact us on 086 146 5879 or online to see if you have a claim.