Car accidents are traumatic and disorienting. In the aftermath, most people don’t know what steps to take — and mistakes made in those first hours can have real legal and financial consequences. This guide explains what to do after a car accident in South Africa, from the scene of the accident to lodging a claim with the Road Accident Fund (RAF).
Immediate Steps at the Scene
1. Check for Injuries and Call Emergency Services
Your first priority is safety. Check yourself and all passengers for injuries. Call 10111 (SAPS) or 10177 (ambulance) immediately if anyone is injured. Do not move injured persons unless they are in immediate danger.
2. Do Not Leave the Scene
Leaving the scene of an accident in which there are injuries — without reasonable cause — is a criminal offence under the National Road Traffic Act 93 of 1996. You are legally required to remain until the police arrive, unless you need medical treatment.
3. Exchange Information
Collect the following from all drivers involved:
- Full name and ID number
- Driver’s licence number
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance details
- Contact number
4. Document Everything
Use your phone to photograph the scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any injuries. Get the names and numbers of any witnesses. This evidence is critical for any future insurance or RAF claim.
5. Report to the Police
You must report any accident involving injury or significant property damage to the police within 24 hours. Get a case number — you will need it for your insurance claim and any RAF claim.
Claiming from the Road Accident Fund (RAF)
The Road Accident Fund compensates victims of motor vehicle accidents for loss caused by the negligent driving of another person. If you were injured in an accident that was not entirely your fault, you may have a valid RAF claim.
What the RAF Covers
- General damages (pain, suffering, loss of enjoyment of life) — for serious injuries only
- Loss of earnings and loss of earning capacity
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Funeral costs (for dependants of fatal accident victims)
Time Limits for RAF Claims
RAF claims must be lodged within three years of the accident date (or three years from when the claimant turns 18 for minors). However, the sooner you act, the better — evidence is fresher and medical records are easier to obtain.
The Claims Process
- Obtain a medico-legal report from a qualified medical expert
- Compile supporting documents: police report, medical records, proof of income
- Lodge the claim form (RAF 1) with the Road Accident Fund
- Attend an RAF offer meeting or proceed to litigation if the offer is inadequate
RAF claims can take between one and several years to finalise, particularly for complex injuries. An attorney who specialises in RAF claims can significantly improve both the speed and outcome of your claim.
When to Contact an Attorney
If you or a family member suffered serious injuries, contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident. Many RAF attorneys work on a contingency basis — meaning no upfront fees, and they only get paid when you do.
Contact Attorneys SA today for a free assessment of your RAF claim. We handle car accident claims across South Africa and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.