The Commissioner of the National Insurance Commission (NIC), Dr. Abiba Zakariah, is urging Ghanaians, especially drivers and vehicle owners to insure their vehicles, assuring them that insurance companies are mandated to support policyholders in times of need.
She emphasized that any insurance company that fails to honour its obligations should be reported to the NIC for sanctions.
“In times of accidents, policyholders are entitled to the full benefits outlined in their insurance contracts,” Dr. Zakariah said. “If a company refuses to pay, report them to us.”
In Ghana, the law requires all drivers to hold at least a valid Motor Third-Party Liability Insurance policy, as mandated by the Motor Vehicles (Third Party Insurance) Act, 1958.
This compulsory policy protects third parties from bodily injury, death, or property damage resulting from accidents involving insured vehicles.
Comprehensive motor insurance, which also covers damage to the policyholder’s own vehicle, remains optional.
Some drivers who spoke to our news team said that if it weren’t for the law, they would not bother with insurance, claiming they rarely see the benefits.
They argued that after paying premiums for years without filing claims, they feel unrewarded. Others expressed frustration with the bureaucratic processes involved in filing claims for even minor accidents.
When asked about these concerns, the Managing Director of Priority Insurance, Faris Elias Attrickie, explained that by law, all accidents—whether minor or serious—must be reported.
“There must be a process,” he said. “Insurance companies need to verify claims to ensure payments go to the right people for the right reasons. That’s why accident reports from the police are required.”
He clarified that the more rigorous procedures usually apply to third-party policyholders, and that comprehensive policyholders typically experience faster processing.
However, Mr. Attrickie also acknowledged the need for flexibility: “Despite the processes, I believe insurance companies can support third-party policyholders who have minor accidents with some compensation—especially when the damage is not significant.”
He added that he does not support a flat premium rate for all vehicle owners, particularly those who choose third-party policies, arguing that risk levels vary.
Dr. Zakariah acknowledged that public trust in the insurance system has eroded, but assured Ghanaians that the NIC is committed to improving transparency and accountability.
She reiterated that the insurance structure is designed to reward policyholders who do not make claims—part of a broader effort to promote responsible driving and reduce accidents.
