RAF urges cyclists to stay safe and follow road rules

On race day, cyclists will experience the RAF’s roadside activation, aimed at highlighting the risks of road use and the precautions riders should take.

To help reduce road crashes involving cyclists, the RAF has launched several road safety campaigns and initiatives, including a partnership with the Pedal Power Association. This comprehensive programme promotes visibility within the cycling community by distributing or donating reflective bibs, helmets, and bicycle reflective lights.

Motorists are also advised to exercise caution and keep a safe distance from cyclists. Additionally, the distribution of car-door stickers is designed to encourage safer driving habits around vulnerable cyclists. In South Africa, cyclist fatalities make up a small percentage of total road deaths, with figures showing 1.2% in the 2024 calendar year and 0.8% during the 2024/25 festive season.

However, the number of cyclist deaths continues to be concerning. Recent reports from the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) show that the highest proportion of cyclist fatalities are male riders.

The RAF urges both cyclists and all South African road users to use the roads responsibly, as road fatalities and trauma can result in devastating emotional, social, and economic consequences for victims, their families, and the country. In the unfortunate event of an accident, road users and their families are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the RAF claims process and to contact the Fund’s call centre for any questions regarding its products and services.

It is particularly concerning that many claimants are unaware of the RAF Undertaking Certificates and the services accessible through this Undertaking. This is worrying because over 85% of open claims are managed by attorneys who receive Undertakings on behalf of their clients.

An Undertaking is an agreement between a claimant and the RAF where the Fund covers current and future medical needs related to injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident. This includes, among other provisions, structural modifications to homes (such as access ramps and bathroom adjustments), caregiver payments, and access to assistive devices like wheelchairs.

For questions about Undertaking Certificates or any other RAF products and services, the public can contact the RAF Contact Centre at 087 820 1 111 from Monday to Friday, between 07h45 and 16h00. Claimants may also reach out to the RAF’s Contact Centre via WhatsApp at 071 605 4707, via SMS at 44930, or by email at contactcentre@raf.co.za.

In addition, the RAF can be contacted through its offices nationwide; details are available on its website at www.raf.co.za.

This content is sponsored by RAF