Accident & Repair Process

Being involved in a car accident in South Africa is stressful — and the insurance claim process that follows can feel equally overwhelming. From the moment you report the incident to your insurer, a series of steps unfolds: a claims handler is assigned, an assessor inspects the damage, and repair authorisation is eventually granted. Each stage has its own timeline, terminology, and potential pitfalls.

Many vehicle owners aren't sure what to expect, what questions to ask, or what rights they have during this process. For example, you may not know that you can choose your own panel beater rather than accepting the one your insurer recommends, or that you should carefully review the repair quote before authorising work. Understanding these steps in advance can help you make better decisions and avoid common mistakes.

The articles below walk through each stage of the typical accident and repair process in South Africa, explaining what happens, who is involved, and what you should look out for at every step.