Motorcycle accidents in South Africa: Statistics and compensation claims
26 Apr 2024
Motorcycle accidents in South Africa are a daily occurrence. Accidents leading to serious injuries or fatalities impact hundreds of victims each year.
Below, we share statistics, offer tips for motorcyclist safety and how to claim compensation from the Road Accident Fund (RAF).
How many motorcycle accidents are there in South Africa?
Motorcyclists represent just 2.1% of registered road users in South Africa. However, they account for more than 700 accidents a year, according to data recorded in 2018. More recent statistics are not readily available.
The fatality rate jumped from 166 in 2017 to 183 – a year-on-year increase of more than 10%. Accidents involving serious injuries dropped marginally from 521 to 508. Male bikers between the ages of 30 and 39 years were the highest demographic in terms of casualties.
Tally up the statistics, and the average number of motorcycle accidents over the 12-month period was 14 a week – 75% of which involved another motor vehicle.
Challenges for motorcyclists on South African roads
The deteriorating condition of our roads, negligent and reckless driving, and poor enforcement of traffic laws are challenges facing all road users.
This is especially true of bikers. They are more vulnerable to hazardous conditions and inadequate street signs, centreline markings and lighting.
Owing to a motorcycle’s design, visibility is often an issue for other motorists and a key causal factor of accidents.
Motorcyclists and pillion passengers don’t have seat belts, air bags, roll bars or impact protection. The only protection is wearable gear that’s largely ineffective in collision events.
Motorcycle safety tips: the basics
The AA and stolen vehicle and asset recovery brand Beame offer these helpful safety tips.
Beware of danger zones
Motorcyclists are urged to avoid areas where they’re not easily visible – immediately in front or behind buses, trucks, taxis and other large, elevated vehicles, and alongside cars.
These blind spots can easily lead to accidents when a car changes lane or a large vehicle suddenly accelerates or brakes.
Maximise visibility
Bikers who wear bright, luminous clothing and ride with the headlights on are easier to see and less likely to get involved in accidents.
Practice pre-emptive riding
Maintain the proper following distance, monitor traffic flow, actively keep a lookout for cars about to change lanes, and be aware of potential hazards on the road.
These behaviours enable riders to react in a safe and predictable way.
Claiming compensation for a motorcycle accident
Riders and pillion passengers who sustain serious injuries as a result of an accident can claim compensation from the RAF.
When a fatality occurs, the family of the victim can claim for loss of support and the cost of a funeral providing the deceased is the main breadwinner.
The success of a claim against the RAF hinges on evidence, including:
- witness statements
- photographic or video evidence of the accident scene and injuries sustained
- observations by police officers attending the scene
- details captured in the police report
- medical reports and records.
Based on the evidence, the RAF may settle the claim and pay compensation for medical expenses, loss of earnings and, in some instances, general damages incurred due to the injuries. Or, the RAF may reject the claim and force the claimant to pursue the matter in court.
Due to the complexity of these claims and the prescribed time in which claims must be lodged, it’s vitally important to consult a suitably experienced personal injury lawyer as soon after the accident as possible.
Cape Town law firm DSC Attorneys specialises in personal injury claims, including claims following motorcycle accidents in South Africa. Contact the firm for legal advice and representation that’s caring, ethical and effective.
See also:
- What makes direct RAF claims expensive for claimants?
- The SA RAF Fuel Levy: Insights for claimants and legal professionals
- Accidental death and road accidents
- Should RAF be imposing a requirement on foreign nationals to produce stamped passports after finalisation of the matter?
