RAF Claim Documents: What to Keep After an Accident

After a road accident, paperwork is rarely your first priority. Treatment, recovery and family responsibilities come first. When you are able to do so, keeping the information you already have in one place can make it easier to discuss a possible Road Accident Fund (RAF) claim.

You do not need a perfectly organised file before asking for help. Start with what is available and make a short list of what is missing.

1. Keep the basic accident details together

Useful records include the accident date and location, the police station and accident reference number, any accident report you have, and the contact details of witnesses. Keep photographs taken at the scene and information about the vehicles involved.

Write down your own recollection while it is still fresh. Separate what you personally remember from information someone else gave you. If you are unsure about a detail, say so rather than trying to fill in the gap.

2. Keep medical records and receipts

Keep hospital and treatment records, medical reports, invoices and proof of payment connected with the injuries. These can help explain the treatment received and the expenses incurred.

A simple treatment list is useful: record the date, the hospital or practitioner, and the reason for each visit. Save appointment messages as well. Your personal notes can help you prepare for a consultation, but they do not replace medical records or a professional assessment.

3. Record the effect on your work and income

If the injuries affected your ability to work, keep payslips from before and after the accident, relevant tax records and information from your employer. The RAF’s guidance identifies earnings records as important when loss of earnings is claimed.

If you work for yourself or your income varies, tell your adviser how you earn a living and what records exist. Avoid guessing a total loss: explain the work you missed, the dates involved and how you arrived at any figures.

4. Keep identity and family documents available

Identity documents and, where relevant, children’s birth certificates may be needed. Where an accident resulted in a death, relevant records can include the death certificate, documents showing the family relationship and financial support, and funeral invoices and receipts.

Tell your adviser who the documents relate to. A short note can prevent confusion when several family members have similar names or when someone is helping an injured relative.

5. Make a simple file you can keep updating

You can use a paper folder, a digital folder, or both. A practical arrangement is:

• Accident: details, photographs and witness information.
• Treatment: appointments, reports and medical expenses.
• Work: income information and time away from work.
• Correspondence: letters, messages and copies of documents supplied.

Give digital files clear names, such as the date and document type. Photograph all pages clearly, check that the writing is readable, and keep originals safe. Avoid sharing identity or medical records in public comments or with an unverified contact.

What if some documents are missing?

Make a list of what you have, what is missing and who may hold it. Ask for advice promptly about the next steps and applicable deadlines. This is a practical record-keeping guide, not a complete list of the legal requirements for lodging a claim. Completing a website enquiry does not lodge a claim with the RAF.

Need help assessing a possible RAF claim?

GCM Legal can help assess whether a RAF claim may be available and what information is still needed. We can be contacted through this website.

Sources: Road Accident Fund, How to Claim (raf.co.za/Claims/Pages/How-To-Claim.aspx); Road Accident Fund, Information Leaflet (English). Accessed 12 September 2026.

Hero photograph: Tembela Bohle / Pexels, photo 920073, used under the Pexels licence. Illustrative Cape Town road scene; it does not depict the accident discussed in any individual claim.