Accra: The Accident Victims Support Ghana (AVSG) has made an appeal for a formal partnership with the Government to enhance support systems for road crash victims nationwide. Reverend Cyril Crabbe, President of AVSG, emphasized the need for collaboration to establish a structured framework that would expand medical, psychological, and financial support for victims and their families, many of whom continue to face challenges long after the initial incident.
According to Ghana News Agency, the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) reported 7,289 road crashes in the first half of 2025, resulting in 1,504 deaths, 8,364 injuries, and 1,301 pedestrian knockdowns. This equates to an average of eight deaths daily, with many more injured. The statistics show a 21.6 percent increase in fatalities compared to the same period in 2024, along with rises in crashes, vehicles involved, and injuries.
Rev. Crabbe pointed out that statistics only reveal part of the impact, as each number represents families in distress, incapacitated breadwinners, or students with interrupted futures. Since its inception 16 years ago, AVSG has provided counselling, financial aid for medical expenses, and advocacy for victims' welfare. The organization also conducts road safety education and trauma support for families, assisting over 150 victims annually.
AVSG's operations have primarily been funded by donations from individuals, religious, and corporate entities, as the organization has not yet received government subventions. Rev. Crabbe noted that insurance payouts are often insufficient, and the Compensation Fund's complex procedures discourage claims, despite payouts ranging from GH?150,000 to GH?350,000.
Looking to the future, AVSG plans to establish an Accident Victims Home in Accra, a 30-room facility providing free physiotherapy, meals, medical reviews, and psychosocial care. The project will launch during Accident Victims Awareness Month in November, alongside the annual 'I Support Accident Victims' campaign.
Rev. Crabbe traced AVSG's roots back to his experience as an evangelist and a crash survivor, which strengthened his commitment to supporting crash victims. Despite the organization's efforts, funding and logistical challenges persist, with a lack of proper vehicles and reliance on a small core staff.
He urged for increased partnerships with corporate, civil society, and faith-based organizations to support AVSG's initiatives, emphasizing the urgent need for government collaboration to address the overwhelming demand for assistance.
