De Broglio Attorneys Takes Legal Action Against the Road Accident Fund

Why the Lawsuit Was Filed

De Broglio Attorneys has launched a court case against the Road Accident Fund (RAF) because more than 430 clients have not received payment even though settlement agreements were reached or court orders were granted. In many instances, the RAF has missed its own 180‑day payment deadline, leaving victims waiting months—or even years—for money that is already owed to them.

Background: RAF Under Scrutiny

The lawsuit comes at a time when the RAF is already facing intense public and parliamentary scrutiny. Recently, Parliament’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts moved to press criminal charges against former RAF chief Collins Letsoalo for ignoring a summons. This has raised concerns about the fund’s leadership, financial management, and overall accountability.

What the Delay Means for Real People

More Than Just Numbers

Each unpaid claim represents a person whose life has been altered by a serious traffic accident. The money is meant to cover medical treatment, rehabilitation, mobility aids, home modifications, and basic living expenses. When payments are delayed, families shoulder the financial and emotional burden.

A Story That Illustrates the Problem

Take the case of Rory Meintjies, a 29‑year‑old who suffered a spinal cord injury four years ago. He now uses a wheelchair and depends on family for daily care. Although a court decision awarded him compensation, his family is still waiting for the payment. While his aunt works full‑time and his grandmother helps with caregiving, the lack of funds limits Rory’s access to ongoing therapy and essential equipment.

What De Broglio Attorneys Is Asking For

The firm’s legal action seeks:

• Full explanations from the RAF for each delayed payment.
• Details on why the fund is not meeting its 180‑day payment commitment.
• A clear plan to ensure that all settled or court‑ordered claims are paid promptly.

According to Michael de Broglio, Director of de Broglio Attorneys, “Once a matter has been resolved or a court order has been granted, there is a reasonable expectation that payment will be made within a reasonable and defined timeframe. Continued delays undermine that expectation and prolong hardship for people who should have already received their compensation.”

The Wider Impact of Late Payments

Late payments affect more than just bank accounts. They can:

• Delay or cancel necessary medical treatments and rehabilitation.
• Prevent victims from buying mobility aids or making home modifications.
• Force families to dip into savings or go into debt.
• In tragic cases, lead to victims passing away before they ever receive the money they are owed.

Calling for Action

De Broglio Attorneys urges the RAF, its board, and the Department of Transport to work together to:

• Increase transparency about payment processes.
• Hold administrators accountable for missed deadlines.
• Implement faster, more reliable payment systems.
• Restore trust among accident victims who rely on the fund for support.

Conclusion

The lawsuit filed by De Broglio Attorneys highlights a critical issue: when the Road Accident Fund fails to pay settled claims, real people suffer. Hundreds of victims and their families are left waiting for money that is legally owed to them, which delays medical care, strains finances, and prolongs emotional hardship. By demanding explanations and pushing for timely payments, the firm aims to protect the rights of accident victims and push the RAF toward greater accountability and efficiency. Only then can the fund fulfill its purpose of providing timely support to those whose lives have been changed by road accidents.