Filing a claim with the Road Accident Fund (RAF) in South Africa can seem daunting, but understanding the process and knowing how to complete the required forms makes it more manageable. Whether you’re a third party, supplier, or assessing serious injuries, these forms are essential to claim compensation.
In this article, we’ll guide you through filling out RAF 1 3rd Party Claim Form, RAF 2 Supplier Claim Form, RAF 3 Accident Report Form, and RAF 4 Serious Injury Assessment Form.
What is the Road Accident Fund (RAF)?
The Road Accident Fund compensates individuals injured or the dependents of those killed in road accidents in South Africa. These claims can be made for medical costs, loss of income, general damages, or funeral expenses. To start your claim, you must fill out specific forms, each tailored to different aspects of the claim.
1. How to Fill in the RAF 1 3rd Party Claim Form
The RAF 1 form is for individuals claiming compensation for personal injury or loss resulting from a road accident. This form is critical as it lays the foundation for your claim.
Steps to Complete the RAF 1 Form:
Section A: Claimant’s Details
- Personal Information:
- Fill in your full name, ID number, and contact details.
- Include your residential and postal addresses.
- Accident Details:
- Provide the date, time, and location of the accident.
- Indicate whether you were a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist.
Section B: Loss and Damages
- Injury Details:
- Clearly describe your injuries (e.g., fractures, burns, etc.).
- Attach supporting medical reports.
- Financial Loss:
- State the income lost due to the accident and attach proof (such as payslips or bank statements).
Section C: Banking Details
- Provide the details of your bank account for compensation payment.
- Double-check the accuracy of your bank information to avoid delays.
Section D: Declaration
- Read and sign the declaration to confirm the accuracy of your information.
Supporting Documents for RAF 1:
- Police report or case number.
- Medical records.
- Identification documents.
- Proof of financial losses (if applicable).
2. How to Fill in the RAF 2 Supplier Claim Form
The RAF 2 form is used by medical suppliers, such as hospitals and doctors, to claim compensation for services provided to the injured party.
Steps to Complete the RAF 2 Form:
Section A: Claimant’s Details
- Supplier’s Information:
- Fill in the name of the hospital or medical facility.
- Include contact details and VAT registration number.
- Patient Information:
- Provide the injured person’s name, ID number, and claim reference number.
Section B: Medical Treatment Details
- Dates and Costs:
- List the dates of medical treatment and the total costs incurred.
- Provide a detailed breakdown of treatments, including consultations, surgeries, or hospital stays.
Section C: Certification
- The medical practitioner must certify the information provided, including their registration number and signature.
Supporting Documents for RAF 2:
- Invoices for medical services.
- Proof of payment or outstanding balances.
- RAF claim reference number.
3. How to Fill in the RAF 3 Accident Report Form
The RAF 3 form collects details about the accident from the police or other relevant authorities. Accurate information in this form helps verify your claim.
Steps to Complete the RAF 3 Form:
Section A: Accident Details
- Date, Time, and Location:
- Record the exact date and time of the accident.
- Provide specific details about the location, such as road names and landmarks.
- Weather and Road Conditions:
- Describe the weather (e.g., rainy, sunny) and road conditions (e.g., wet, dry, or poorly lit).
Section B: Parties Involved
- Driver and Vehicle Information:
- Provide the names, contact details, and ID numbers of all drivers involved.
- Include the registration numbers and makes of the vehicles.
Section C: Witness Information
- Witness Statements:
- List the names and contact details of any witnesses.
- Attach written statements or affidavits from the witnesses.
Section D: Police Report
- Police Details:
- Indicate the police station where the accident was reported and the case number.
- Attach a certified copy of the accident report.
Supporting Documents for RAF 3:
- Police accident report.
- Witness statements.
- Photographs of the accident scene (if available).
4. How to Fill in the RAF 4 Serious Injury Assessment
The RAF 4 form is used to assess whether your injuries qualify as “serious” under the RAF Act. Compensation for general damages is only awarded for serious injuries.
Steps to Complete the RAF 4 Form:
Section A: Patient and Practitioner Details
- Injured Party’s Details:
- Include your name, ID number, and claim reference number.
- Medical Practitioner’s Details:
- Provide the name, registration number, and contact information of the assessing doctor.
Section B: Injury Assessment
- Diagnosis and Treatment:
- The doctor must describe your injuries, including any fractures, organ damage, or disabilities.
- Attach medical evidence, such as X-rays or MRI results.
- Serious Injury Threshold:
- The doctor determines whether your injury meets the “Whole Person Impairment” (WPI) threshold of 30% or more.
- For non-quantifiable injuries, the doctor must use the narrative test to describe the severity of your condition.
Section C: Certification
- The medical practitioner must certify their findings and sign the form.
Supporting Documents for RAF 4:
- Detailed medical reports.
- Diagnostic images (e.g., X-rays, scans).
- Injury prognosis from the doctor.
Tips for Submitting Road Accident Fund Claims Forms:
- Complete the Forms Accurately: Ensure that all information is correct and legible.
- Attach Supporting Documents: Missing documents can delay your claim.
- Seek Assistance: If unsure, consult a lawyer or RAF consultant.
- Submit On Time: Claims must be submitted within three years of the accident.
Also read: What Does the Road Accident Fund Cover? Exploring RAF Benefits
Filling out the Road Accident Fund 1 3rd Party Claim Form, RAF 2 Supplier Claim Form, RAF 3 Accident Report Form, and RAF 4 Serious Injury Assessment Form requires attention to detail and proper documentation. By following this guide, you can streamline the process and increase your chances of a successful claim. If you encounter difficulties, consider reaching out to the RAF or legal professionals for assistance.
