Road accident scheme open for comment
The public has until the end of November to submit written comments on the proposed bill
MEMBERS of the public are invited to comment on the proposed Road Accident Benefit Scheme (RABS), which is open for submissions until 30 November.
Among other things, the Bill seeks to provide for a social security scheme for victims of road accidents, to authorise the RABS Administrator to administer and implement the scheme, and to provide a set of defined benefits on a no-fault basis to people for bodily injury or death caused by road accidents.
The Bill’s preamble states that the existing fault-based compensation system, administered by the Road Accident Fund, is not effectively achieving the purpose for which it was created.
It also states there is a need for an effective benefit system, which is reasonable, equitable, affordable and sustainable in the long-term, and that there is a need to simplify claims procedures, reduce disputes and create certainty by providing defined and structured benefits.
The Bill also aims to establish administrative procedures for the expeditious resolution of disputes that may arise, and to alleviate the burden on the courts.
Enquiries, as well as written submissions must be addressed to the Portfolio Committee on Transport, for the attention of Valerie Carelse, 3rd floor, W/S 3/79, 90 Plein Street, Cape Town, 8001, or e-mailed to vcarelse@parliament.gov.za.
As well as written comments, people should indicate their interest in making a verbal presentation to the committee.
Copies of the Bill can be obtained from Valerie Carelse on 021 4033272, 083 7098445 or www.parliament.gov.za
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
