The government is rolling out new measures this festive season to improve the response to road accidents, including positioning ambulances at major tollgates and setting up dedicated wards in hospitals for accident victims.
The ambulances will be strategically placed to provide swift medical care to those involved in road accidents, increasing the chances of survival and recovery by ensuring victims receive help within the critical first hour after an accident, known as the “golden hour.”
In a statement to The Herald, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona emphasized that the initiative’s aim is to guarantee that accident victims are quickly transported to nearby medical facilities for timely treatment.
The initiative will be supported by two key bodies: the Zimbabwe National Roads Administration (ZINARA) and the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), which will collaborate to ensure the program’s success.
Additionally, the government is set to introduce a Road Accident Fund, designed to offer prompt assistance for the rehabilitation of injured individuals, provide compensation, and offer insurance for victims and their families. Mhona explained that this fund will alleviate the financial burden on those affected by accidents, covering medical expenses, funeral costs, and education fees for dependents who lose a primary earner.
He also shared that the government is working on mandatory insurance coverage for all road users, which will support victims and address the financial needs arising from road accidents. A Cabinet proposal on the matter will be presented soon. Mhona noted that the government is committed to improving road safety and ensuring that victims are supported during their most challenging times.
This initiative aims to create a safer road environment and provide much-needed assistance to those impacted by accidents, demonstrating the government’s commitment to public safety and welfare.
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