Families and dependants
What is a loss-of-support claim?
In plain language
When a person who supported others dies in a road accident, dependants may fall into a separate category. This guide explains the general concept.
- Loss of support is generally discussed where a person who supported others dies in a road crash.
- The relationship, dependency and financial support need to be established with records.
- This guide does not calculate dependency or the value of a claim.
On this page
What loss of support means
The RAF's published information includes past and future loss of support among the categories that may arise after a road accident. In plain language, the issue is whether someone depended on a person who died for financial support.
The word dependant has a legal meaning that can be more detailed than a family label. Being related does not automatically answer the question, and people who were supported may need to show how that support worked.
Records that can help explain the situation
- The death certificate or other official death information
- Documents showing the relationship between the person who died and the person seeking support
- Records showing income or contributions to household costs, where available
- Birth certificates for minor children and proof of marriage where applicable
- Funeral invoices or proof of payment where funeral costs are involved
The official leaflet lists additional death-related documents such as the deceased person's identity information and proof of earnings. Do not assume every item applies; ask why a record is needed and use a secure channel for sensitive documents.
Taking the next step carefully
Start with immediate practical needs and preserve records. A bereavement is difficult; you do not need to decide every legal issue on the day of the accident.
General next steps
- 1Keep death, relationship and household-support records together.
- 2Read the documents guide before requesting certified copies or reports.
- 3Consider professional advice if you need help understanding dependency or representation.
Common questions
Official sources
RAF Guide summarises publicly available official material. Always confirm current requirements with the institution concerned.
- RAF claim guide leafletRoad Accident Fund · Official RAF leaflet covering the claims process, direct claims, common documents and accident-scene steps.
- Road Accident Fund Act 56 of 1996South African Government · The primary legislation establishing the Road Accident Fund and its framework.
- RAF claim forms and supporting-document checklistRoad Accident Fund · Official RAF forms and document categories used in claims administration.
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