Help at hand for accident victims

VICTIMS of road accidents in Zululand will be assisted with claim applications when the Road Accident Fund (RAF) conducts an awareness campaign in Empangeni this month.

Addressing the uMhlathuze Executive Committee on Tuesday, a RAF delegation said the aim of the roadshow was to inform communities of the RAF’s compulsory social insurance net for all road users.

The fund provides cover for local citizens and foreigners against injuries sustained or death arising from accidents involving motor vehicles within the borders of South Africa.

This cover is in the form of indemnity insurance to persons who cause the accident, as well as personal injury and death insurance to victims of motor vehicle accidents and their families.

The RAF also assists in the rehabilitation of injured victims and their reintegration back into society.

However, Councillors expressed concern on Tuesday over the slow pace of claims processed.

‘Lawyers visit victims at the hospital and then it takes about three years before the claim expires. Victims expect the process to move ahead, especially when the matter is being handled by a lawyer,’ said Deputy Mayor Vera Gumbi.

Cllr MM Mbokazi said there were also reports of lawyers charging victims excessive amounts to process claims at hospitals.

RAF representatives said victims could lodge claims directly with the RAF as there was an office at Ngwelezana Hospital.

‘We are happy to hear that the RAF is coming to our area. So many people are involved in accidents and are not able to access help and claim compensation,’ Cllr S Mkhize.

The campaign, held in conjunction with the Department of Transport, will take place on 16 August at the Imbizo Centre in Empangeni from 6am to 6pm.