Published July 30, 2026
| Version v1
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The Role of Religion in Dealing with Road Accidents in Pluralistic Ghana
Authors/Creators
- 1. Jasikan College of Education, Oti Region, Ghana
- 2. St. Ambrose College of Education, Dormaa-Akwamu, Bono Region, Ghana
- 3. Abetifi College of Education at Abetifi, Eastern Region, Ghana
- 4. Atebubu College of Education at Atebubu, Bono East Region, Ghana
Description
Road accidents remain a major cause of death, injury, and socio-economic loss in Ghana despite ongoing government interventions, enforcement of traffic laws, and public safety campaigns. The persistence of these incidents suggests that legal and technical approaches alone are insufficient, as behavioural, moral, and cultural factors also play a significant role in road user practices. In Ghana’s pluralistic religious context, religion remains a powerful influence on values, decision-making, and everyday behaviour, yet its contribution to road safety has not been fully explored. This study therefore examines the role of religion in addressing road accidents in Ghana, focusing on how Christianity, Islam, and African Traditional Religion shape moral conduct, safety awareness, community engagement, and support systems for accident victims. Using a qualitative design involving document analysis, interviews, and observations, the study explores perspectives of religious leaders, drivers, and community members. Findings indicate that religious institutions promote road safety through ethical teachings, moral accountability, discipline, and respect for human life, while also providing emotional and spiritual support to victims and families. However, challenges such as fatalistic beliefs, overreliance on divine protection, and weak institutional collaboration limit effectiveness. The study recommends stronger integration of religious institutions into national road safety strategies to reduce accidents in Ghana.
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References
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Religiousness, conservatism and their relationship with traffic behaviour (Master's thesis). Middle East Technical University. Ethical Pledge The authors confirm that this study was conducted with full adherence to academic integrity and ethical research standards. All sources were properly cited in line with APA 7th edition, and no form of plagiarism, fabrication, or misrepresentation was involved. Participants were treated with dignity and confidentiality throughout the research process. Ethical Consideration Informed consent was obtained from all participants, and participation was voluntary. Confidentiality and anonymity were strictly maintained. The study respected religious diversity and ensured that no participant was harmed or misrepresented. Ethical standards for social science research were fully observed. AI Declaration Statement AI tools were used only for language editing and formatting support. All ideas, analysis, interpretation, and academic content were developed independently by the authors. The authors take full responsibility for the final content.