Road Accident Fund (RAF) Notes and Exam Questions Business Studies Grade 12 The Road Accident Fund (RAF) provides compulsory cover to all users of South African roads, citizens and foreigners, against injuries sustained or death arising from accidents involving motor vehicles within the borders of South Africa. This cover is in the form of indemnity insurance to persons who cause the accident, as well as personal injury and death insurance to victims of motor vehicle accidents, and their families.

The RAF is responsible for: providing appropriate cover to all road users within the borders of South Africa; rehabilitating and compensating persons injured as a result of motor vehicles in a timely and caring manner; and actively promoting the safe use of all South African roads.

The client base of the RAF comprises not only the South African public, but all foreigners within the borders of the country. The RAF provides two types of cover, namely personal insurance cover to accident victims or their families, and indemnity cover to wrongdoers.

The key issues that students might encounter in their studies and offer guidance on how to approach them effectively.

1. Ethical Decision Making: Ethical decision-making lies at the heart of ethical behavior in business. Grade 12 students often encounter scenarios and case studies that require them to analyze and evaluate different courses of action from an ethical standpoint. These situations can range from conflicts of interest to issues of corporate social responsibility. Students must learn to consider various stakeholders’ perspectives and apply ethical frameworks such as utilitarianism or deontology to arrive at well-reasoned conclusions.
2. Professional Conduct: Professional behavior goes beyond mere adherence to rules and regulations; it encompasses integrity, honesty, and respect for others. In the context of business studies, students may face challenges related to academic integrity, teamwork, and communication. It’s essential for students to cultivate a sense of professionalism early on by maintaining academic honesty, collaborating effectively with peers, and communicating clearly and respectfully in academic settings.
3. Handling Pressure and Temptation: In the competitive environment of academia, students may face pressure to excel at all costs, leading to ethical lapses such as cheating or plagiarism. Moreover, the allure of shortcuts or unethical practices in pursuit of success can be tempting. Grade 12 students must recognize these pressures and develop resilience and ethical fortitude to resist them. Building a strong moral compass and seeking support from teachers, mentors, and peers can help students navigate such challenges with integrity and resolve.
4. Balancing Personal Values with Organizational Goals: One of the fundamental dilemmas in business ethics is the tension between individual values and organizational objectives. Grade 12 students may encounter scenarios where their personal beliefs conflict with the interests of the company or the broader business environment. In such instances, students must learn to negotiate these tensions thoughtfully, considering the implications of their actions on both personal integrity and organizational success. Finding common ground or advocating for ethical practices within the organization can be effective strategies in addressing these conflicts.
5. Examining Real-World Examples: To reinforce theoretical concepts and ethical frameworks, educators often incorporate real-world case studies and examples into the curriculum. Grade 12 students should actively engage with these materials, critically analyzing the ethical dilemmas faced by companies across different industries. By studying historical and contemporary business scandals, students can gain valuable insights into the consequences of ethical lapses and the importance of upholding ethical standards in the business world.