Medical Expenses can be divided into two different categories:
Past medical expenses which are related to medical expenses that have already been incurred at the time of settlement; and
Future medical expenses which are related to medical expenses that may be incurred post settlement.
A third party may claim his or her proven past and future medical expenses from the RAF. The medical expenses must be reasonable, necessary and directly related to the injuries sustained in the motor vehicle accident. If the medical expenses are not related to the injuries sustained in the motor vehicle accident, the RAF will not be liable to compensate the third party for such medical expenses. Only proven medical expenses will be compensated.
The third party must furnish the RAF with proof that the medical expenses were indeed incurred. A supplier of medical services such as a hospital or medical practitioner (referred to in the Act as a "supplier") also has the right to claim such expenses directly from the RAF. Where the RAF has paid the medical expenses to the supplier the third party can no longer claim the medical expenses from the RAF.
A third party may also claim his or her expected future medical treatment expenses from the RAF, if it is proven that such future treatment expenses are likely. The RAF will issue an undertaking that enables the third party to receive future medical treatment in terms of the undertaking. The RAF may elect to pay either the third party or the supplier in respect of claims made in terms of the undertaking.
