Road accidents often leave more than physical injuries. Head injuries, trauma, depression, and anxiety can affect a claimant’s work, relationships, and daily life for years. A psychological or neuropsychological medico-legal assessment gives the court and the Road Accident Fund (RAF) an independent, evidence-based account of that impact.
This guide explains what the assessment covers, what to send, and how the process works.
When to instruct a psychologist
Consider an assessment when the claimant has:
- a head injury, including a concussion or loss of consciousness
- changes in memory, concentration, or behaviour since the accident
- symptoms of post-traumatic stress, depression, or anxiety
- difficulty returning to work or study
Under the Road Accident Fund Act 56 of 1996 and the RAF Regulations, 2008, a claim for general damages requires a serious injury assessment, reported on the RAF 4 form. A psychological report can support the narrative test for a severe long-term mental or behavioural disturbance or disorder. The Road Accident Fund publishes the current forms.
What the assessment covers
A clinical psychology assessment looks at emotional and psychological functioning before and after the accident. A neuropsychological assessment adds structured testing of thinking skills, such as:
- attention and concentration
- memory and learning
- planning and problem-solving
- speed of thinking
The report sets out findings, the likely link to the accident, prognosis, and treatment recommendations, with costs where relevant.
What to send
Send the letter of instruction with collateral documents. These usually include:
- hospital and clinical records
- other expert reports already available
- school or employment records
- the accident report
Complete collateral improves the accuracy of the report and reduces delays.
Our process
- Instruction: you send the letter of instruction and documents.
- Review: we review the collateral.
- Interview: a full clinical interview with the claimant, in English, isiZulu, or siSwati where needed.
- Testing: suitable psychometric tests, chosen for the claimant’s language, education, and background.
- Report: a structured written report within two weeks.
Culturally fair testing matters in South Africa. Many tests were developed on populations that differ from the claimant’s. Mariel interprets results with this in mind, which strengthens the report under cross-examination.
Independence
The expert’s duty is to the court. We act for plaintiff and defendant teams and keep the same standards for both. Expert notices and summaries must follow Rule 36(9) of the Uniform Rules of Court.
Fees
- Neuropsychological assessment and report: R14,000
- Clinical psychology assessment and report: R14,000
- Industrial psychology, educational psychology, or occupational therapy assessment and report: R13,000
Instruct us
Email the letter of instruction to marielkabelom@yahoo.com, or see Medico-legal for more detail.
This article is general information for attorneys and is not legal advice.