More than 310 000 beneficiaries received payments from the Road Accident Fund (RAF) between October 2024 and May 2026, with payouts totalling R79.33b across claims and related obligations.

Legal fees take major share

During this 20-month period, payments to attorneys totalled R57.54b, while approximately R4.48b was paid to direct claimants.

With many claimants facing life-changing injuries, the loss of loved ones, or permanent disabilities that affect their ability to earn a living and support their families, it is important to protect and manage settlement payments prudently to help secure long-term financial well-being.

Compensation paid by the RAF is intended to provide financial support and dignity to those affected by road crashes, often for many years to come. Without careful financial planning and informed decision-making, settlement pay-outs can be depleted much sooner than anticipated.

In some instances, claimants may even become targets of fraudsters, scammers and criminal syndicates seeking to exploit their circumstances.

The RAF is therefore encouraging claimants to take the time to consider both their immediate and future financial needs before making significant spending decisions.

Where appropriate, claimants are encouraged to seek independent and reputable financial advice to help them make informed choices that support their long-term well-being and that of their families.

Protecting payouts against scams

The RAF also urged claimants to remain vigilant after receiving their settlements. They should avoid publicly disclosing information about their compensation, exercise caution when approached with unsolicited investment opportunities or requests for financial assistance and report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.

To protect themselves against fraud and misinformation, claimants should verify the status of their claims only through the RAF’s official communication channels, including the RAF Contact Centre and other authorised RAF platforms.

For inquiries or further information regarding a claim, contact the RAF Contact Centre on 087 820 11 11. The office operates Monday to Friday, from 07:45 to 16:00.

Claimants may also reach the RAF Contact Centre on WhatsApp on 071 605 4707, via SMS on 44930, or by email at contactcentre@raf.co.za. In addition, the RAF can be contacted through its nationwide offices; details are available on its website.

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