Mr Felix Owusu, Planning Manager of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Greater Accra Regional Office, has advised drivers to avoid driving while tired to prevent road crashes.
He explained that the increase in travel during the festive season, especially among commercial drivers, often led to prolonged hours of driving, resulting in fatigue and reduced concentration.
Mr Owusu gave the advice on during an in-traffic road safety education and sensitization exercise on the Dzorwulu-Fiesta Royale stretch in Accra.
The initiative, organised by the NRSA Greater Accra Regional Office in collaboration with the Airport Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), also engaged drivers and passengers at the Accra Mall Trotro station.
Mr Owusu noted that road crashes were not caused solely by drivers, emphasising that other road users, including pedestrians, played a role.
“In Ghana, as we approach festive seasons, there is often an increase in road crashes, injuries, and fatalities. This makes it prudent for us to intensify our engagement with road users, educating them on their responsibilities to reduce these incidents,” he said.
He expressed worry over the struggle of many drivers to interpret road signs and markings, posing a significant danger on the roads.
“It’s worrying that some drivers do not understand basic road signs. This campaign aims to address such gaps while continuously reminding drivers and pedestrians of their responsibilities to ensure safer roads.” Mr Owusu said.
The sensitisation exercise involved educating drivers on adhering to speed limits, obeying road signs, and the mandatory use of seatbelts.
Passengers and pedestrians were also advised on how their behaviour could impact road safety.
The team used printed road signs to test participants’ knowledge as Mr Owusu explained some common signs.
These include “End of motorway sign” which requires that drivers reduce their speed to below 100 km/h as they exit the motorway; “Pedestrian crossing” (zebra crossing) which warns vehicles that there are pedestrians in the area.
Others are “continuous solid lines” which indicate areas where overtaking or switching lanes is prohibited and the “no stopping sign” which prohibits drivers from stopping in these areas unless their vehicle breaks down, in which case they must quickly alert the Police.
Mr Owusu also reiterated the importance of respecting traffic lights: “The red light means stop, amber means stop at the stop line, and green means proceed only when it is safe to do so.”
He urged drivers to take breaks when tired, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and remain disciplined.
Mr Owusu encouraged passengers to speak up if a driver engaged in reckless behaviour, such as speeding or overtaking dangerously.
“Motor riders must wear crash helmets and adhere to road safety regulations, while pedestrians should use designated crossing points or practice the ‘stop, look, and cross’ drill to stay safe,” he added.
Superintendent Charles Kwakye, the Airport Divisional MTTD Commander, said the joint exercise also focused on educating hawkers and pedestrians about road dangers.
He expressed concern over the lack of awareness about road signs among drivers, calling on the NRSA to intensify campaigns and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to ensure that driving licenses were issued only to individuals familiar with traffic rules and regulations.
“Christmas is a time of fun and celebration, but reckless behaviour on the roads can turn it into a tragedy.” Superintendent Kwakye cautioned.
Supt. Kwakye advised travelers to prioritise safety, avoid speeding, and always use seat belts.
“Your life is valuable—to your family, to Ghana, and to yourself. Celebrate responsibly so you can enjoy many more Christmases to come,” he advised.
GNA