Major Overhaul of Post-Crash Care as Cabinet Approves Road Accident Fund Bill

4 June 2025

Nokusa Masuku

Cabinet has approved the principles of the Road Accident Fund Bill, a key step in reforming emergency response and post-crash care as part of the national drive to reduce road traffic deaths by 2030.

Speaking during the 15th post cabinet press briefing, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services highlighted that the Bill seeks to address critical gaps in the current post-accident framework, including the lack of provisions for immediate medical evacuation and treatment. Emergency service providers often hesitate to assist due to uncertainty over payment, leaving accident victims without urgent care.

“Cabinet received and approved the principles of the road accident fund bill. The main objective of the road accident fund bill which wil merge from the principles is to reduce deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents by 2030 through access to safe affordable and sustainable transport systems as well as improving road safety for all, ” he said.

Minister Muswere further noted that the proposed Road Accident Fund will ensure guaranteed payment for emergency and funeral services, enhancing support for accident survivors.

“Emergency services providers are reluctant to provide medical services in instances when payment for service is not guaranteed. The current liability cover is not adequate to cover medical and funeral expenses. The road accident fund will place greater focus on enhanced responsiveness to post crash emergencies in order to improve liability of health and related systems, “ added Muswere.

Funded through motor vehicle insurance premiums and Treasury allocations, the Bill also aims to improve long-term rehabilitation services. Authorities say the reforms will boost survival rates and strengthen the health system’s capacity to manage trauma, aligning with broader transport and public health goals.