Accra, April 3, – The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has cautioned drivers against the use of drugs and intoxicating substances, warning that such behaviour significantly increases the risk of road crashes.
Mr Joshua Quist, Greater Accra Regional Director of the Authority, expressed concern over the growing use of substances such as tramadol and “red,” especially among young drivers.
“These substances affect the brain and impair judgment. When you are driving under their influence, your ability to make the right decisions is compromised, and that can easily lead to crashes,” he said.
He gave the warning during an in-traffic sensitisation exercise at the Linda Dor rest stop along the Accra–Suhum–Bonso highway, as part of the NRSA’s Easter Visibility Programme.
The exercise is being carried out in collaboration with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service to intensify education and enforcement before, during and after the Easter festivities.
Mr Quist noted that the legal blood alcohol limit had been reduced from 0.08 to 0.05, warning that drivers who exceed this threshold would face sanctions.
He explained that road crashes in Ghana tend to increase during festive periods such as Easter, August–September festivities and Christmas, largely due to increased travel and risky driving behaviours.
Common causes of crashes, he said, include:
- Speeding
- Wrongful overtaking
- Distracted driving (including mobile phone use)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
He also stressed the importance of seatbelt use, noting its critical role in reducing fatalities during accidents.
Rising Road Fatalities a Concern
Mr Quist revealed that road crash fatalities rose from 2,494 in 2024 to 2,949 in 2025, describing the trend as alarming.
He added that:
- A significant number of deaths involved commercial and private vehicles
- About 46% of fatalities were linked to motorcycle crashes
- In Greater Accra, 226 out of 420 deaths involved motorcycles
He cautioned motor riders, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas, against overloading and failure to wear helmets.
Child Safety and Driver Fatigue
The NRSA also highlighted new child safety regulations, requiring that:
- Children under 12 years,
- Below 145 cm, or
- Weighing less than 36 kg,
must sit in the back seat with appropriate restraints.
On long-distance travel, Mr Quist warned against fatigue driving, urging drivers to rest after about eight hours or ensure the availability of a second driver.
Passengers Must Speak Up
He encouraged passengers to take an active role in ensuring safety by advising drivers to slow down, rest or avoid risky behaviour.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility. Passengers must speak up and support drivers to make safe decisions,” he said.
Superintendent Emelia Asiedua Gyekye of the MTTD in Kibi said the Police were adopting proactive enforcement strategies, combining education with visibility to prevent crashes.
She urged drivers to comply with road regulations and understand traffic signs, stressing that police presence alone often makes drivers more cautious.
GHBUSS
3 April 2026
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