The Damages Committee assists actuaries and facilitates communication, discussion and liaison within the profession on relevant topics related to damage assessment.

Members of ASSA are involved in various parts of the damages and litigation fields in South Africa. The roles of members in these fields usually relates to assisting the Court with quantum calculation, reporting and testifying (as an expert witness) on matters that are deemed to require the expertise of members. The following are the main types of claims where actuarial expertise might be required:

• Loss of income.
• Loss of support.
• Future medical costs.
• Maintenance.
• Accrual of estates.

The damages and compensation committee was formed to support actuaries working in this area and to promote the profession within this area of work.

The objectives of the Damages Committee are to:

• Promote discussion and research into topics of interest to actuaries working in the field,
• Promote awareness of the profession’s involvement in this area,
• Provide opportunities for continuing professional development and dissemination of relevant legal updates,
• Develop professional guidance relating to work in the field, and
• Create networking opportunities for actuaries working in this field.