The Arrive Alive website received an interesting request for assistance earlier today. I would like to quote:
“I was just wondering what is the process after a hit and run case has been opened? I’ve searched the internet and most articles that are found are just about the incidents that have occurred, and nothing about the process. What is involved and what is the timeline on the entire process?”
We referred this to our friends from the SAPS and received kind assistance from Superintendent Askew, Section Commander: Accident Combating Services.
He advised as follows:
“The following questions need to be asked.
• Did the SAPS/ Metro Police/ Traffic Police/ Traffic Dept attend the road accident?
• Were there any deaths, injuries in the accident?
• Was any person arrested at the scene or away from the scene?
• Were there any witnesses to the accident?
If SAPS/ Metro Police/ Traffic Police/ Traffic Dept did attend, an Accident Report (AR) Form should have been completed and a CAS (Crime Administration System) Docket registered at the relevant SAPS police station.
The nature of the accident will determine the nature of criminal charges, namely Culpable Homicide, Driving under the influence of intoxicating liquor or a drug having a narcotic effect, Reckless or Negligent Driving, Inconsiderate Driving, Failing to stop after accident, Failing to ascertain nature and extent of injuries/ damage, Failing to exchange particulars, etc.
The victim/ aggrieved party should have an AR number and CAS number.
If the SAPS/ Metro Police/ Traffic Police/ Traffic Dept did not attend the road accident, the road accident must be reported at an office of one of the above departments (preferably the SAPS since a CAS Docket is to be opened/ registered), an AR form must be completed, and the reporting party must request that s/ he wants to open/ register a case. An affidavit must then be taken from her/ him.
Once a docket is registered, a detective investigates the case. Depending on work-load, evidence, etc, it could take 1-3 years. If there is not a strong prima facie case, the matter could be withdrawn by the Director for Prosecutions.
I trust the information can be of some assistance.”
We would like to extend a word of appreciation to Superintendent Askew and the SAPS for the assistance received!