The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has reported an increase in road crash fatalities in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
According to Mrs. Pearl Adusu Sateckla, the Head of Public Relations of the NRSA, a total of 609 lives were lost in road accidents from January to March 2024, up from 553 in 2023.
In addition to the increase in fatalities, 3,823 individuals suffered various injuries in road crashes during the same period, compared to 3,747 last year. The total number of accidents also saw a slight rise, with 3,405 cases recorded in 2024 compared to 3,367 in 2023.
Mrs. Sateckla highlighted that overspeeding and fatigued driving were major factors contributing to these road crashes. To address the rising number of accidents, the NRSA has collaborated with the Ghana Police Service and the Bloomberg Philanthropic Initiative for Global Road to educate drivers and road users on road safety measures.
She emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring road safety, stating that most accidents are avoidable. Mrs. Sateckla also mentioned that several drivers have been apprehended for traffic offenses such as speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol, with fines imposed on them by the Motor Traffic and Transport Department.
To prevent further road accidents and fatalities, Mrs. Sateckla urged all road users to adhere to road safety regulations. She assured the public that the NRSA is committed to partnering with various stakeholders, including the media, the Ghana Police Service, and the Driver Vehicle and Licensing Authority, to promote road safety awareness.
Road accidents not only result in loss of lives and property but also have a negative impact on the country’s socioeconomic development. Therefore, Mrs. Sateckla stressed the importance of supporting road safety initiatives to create a safer road environment for all.
