The additional Fuel Levy allocated to the Road Accident Fund (RAF) has come as a welcome albeit temporary relief to the organisation, including thousands of claimants and their families, and will make it possible for the Fund to continue delivering on its public mandate.
The announcement by Minister of Finance, Pravin Gordhan, of an additional 9c/l from 154c/l to 163c/l – an increase of 5.8% – equates to an additional yearly amount of R1, 9 billion to the RAF. This brings the total RAF annual Fuel Levy to R34.9 billion.
“We thank the Department of Transport for the support given to us, as well as the National Treasury. This is an indication of government’s confidence in the RAF’s administration and delivery of its mandate, despite ongoing financial challenges.
“Inflows from the additional 9c/l should be received from July or August and will assist in reducing the volumes of finalised payments awaiting release,” Chief Executive Officer, Dr Eugene Watson.
Motorists’ additional contribution towards the Fuel Levy guarantees that South Africa’s road users will still get cover under the current compensation scheme in the unfortunate event of them being injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident.
It will also go towards addressing the backlog of claims.
Meanwhile, the RAF will continue managing its financial challenges in a constructive manner by engaging stakeholders, suppliers, and claimants on how the additional funds will be further distributed fairly and equitably while appealing for their support and cooperation.
Claimants who need further clarity about their outstanding payments are welcome to phone the RAF Call
Centre on 0860 23 55 23 from Monday to Friday, 07h45 to 16h00, or visit their nearest Hospital Service
Centre, details of which are available on the RAF website.
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