What is the Application for Accident Benefits (OCF-1)?
It is the first form in a series of forms that make up your Accident Benefits package. If you want to apply for benefits. The OCF-1 form and package must be completed in full and submitted to your auto insurance provider. (If you were injured during a car accident and seek compensation on or after November 1st, 1996.)
Download your Application for Accident Benefits (OCF-1)
Which forms are part of the Accident Benefits Package?
- Application for Accident Benefits (OCF-1)
- Employer’s Confirmation of Income (OCF-2)
- Disability Certificate (OCF-3)
- Permission to Disclose Health Information (OCF-5)
- Treatment Confirmation Form (OCF-23)
Is the OCF-1 form a multi-section document?
Yes, the OCF-1 form has 11 sections, called Parts. It is an 8-page document. Here is an overview of the sections that will need to be completed. We recommend that you seek counsel from a personal injury lawyer when completing this form.
Section 1 - Applicant Information
Section 2 - Applicant's Representative
Section 3 - Accident Details and Health Information
Section 4 - Details of Automobile Insurance
Section 5 - Applicant Status
Section 6 - Student Attending School
Section 7 - Caregiver
Section 8 - Income Replacement Determination
Section 9 - Other Insurance or Collateral Payments
Section 10 - Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund
Section 11 - Signature
If you have been hurt in a motor vehicle accident, there are only certain clinics that have registered on Health Claims for Auto Insurance (HCAI), an electronic system for processing auto insurance claims in order to direct bill motor vehicle accident companies. |
Should I seek help from a Personal Injury Lawyer when I fill out this form/package?
Yes, we recommend you seek the advice of someone experienced in the field of personal injury law, as the forms can be complicated to fill out. If you are not careful with the details, your essential medical and rehabilitation services may be delayed or denied by the insurer.
Important Timelines that should be considered:
The law requires that all car accidents involving bodily injury be reported to the police. In addition, if you want to make a claim for certain accident benefits, you will have 7 days to do so after your accident. Your insurance adjuster will give you more information on how this should happen.
You have 30 days from receiving this package to return it or submit an explanation as to why you could not submit it under the timeline. We recommend you keep a copy of the OCF-1 form for your records and return the original document to your insurance company.
Highlights of the OCF 1 - Application for Accident Benefits:
To be filled out by the person applying for the accident benefits when you are applying for benefits for the first time. If the person applying for accident benefits is unable to fill out the form, is a minor or deceased, the application may be submitted by an assigned representative.
Requires basic personal information about yourself, details relating to the automobile accident, your insurance policy, form of employment and more, to determine potential entitlement to accident benefits.
To be returned 30 days after receiving the Application of Accident Benefits Package. (1) If you are unable to return it within 30 days, submit it to your insurance company anyway and explain why you were not able to complete it within the timeframe.
Fill out as completely as possible with your signature as missing information will waste time in processing your claim, (2) and delay receiving your accident benefits.
SABS, O Regulation 34/10, s.32(5)
SABS, O Regulation 34/10, s.32 (6)
Frequently Asked Questions:
An individual who plans on applying for one or more benefits must notify their insurer of such intentions no later than the 7th day after the accident or as soon as it is practical.
Within 10 business days after the insurer receives the OCF-1 Accident Benefits application package and completed disability certificate, the insurer will let you know about the specified benefit or give a reason why the insurer does not believe you are entitled to the specified benefit.
The insurance company's decision to refuse payment for your claim can be appealed and reviewed by a third party.
The most common reason for rejection of claims is lack of information or wrong information.
Your full name and contact details. The information about any other parties involved (including their vehicles and location of the incident) A crime reference number if applicable.
If you have been hurt in a motor vehicle accident, there are only certain clinics that have registered on Health Claims for Auto Insurance (HCAI), an electronic system for processing auto insurance claims in order to direct bill motor vehicle accident companies. |