You’re sitting in a trotro, squeezed between passengers, the driver weaving through traffic with one hand on the wheel and the other clutching a wad of cedis. The brakes screech at every stop, the tires look worn, and the dashboard lights flicker like a dying candle. This is a familiar scene for many Ghanaians, yet few stop to think about the hidden dangers of poorly maintained vehicles.
While reckless driving and bad roads often dominate discussions on road safety, vehicle maintenance is an overlooked but deadly factor. Many Ghanaian drivers neglect routine servicing, leading to mechanical failures that cause accidents, breakdowns, and even fatalities.
The cost of neglect
A shocking number of vehicles on Ghana’s roads are not roadworthy, with issues ranging from worn-out tires to faulty brakes. According to the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), between January and April 2025, Ghana recorded over 4,700 road crashes, involving more than 8,000 vehicles. These accidents led to over 5,000 injuries and more than 1,000 deaths, with many linked to mechanical faults such as defective lights, tires, and reflectors.
The statistics paint a grim picture. Many of these accidents could have been prevented if drivers had taken basic maintenance seriously. The NRSA has repeatedly warned that faulty brakes, worn-out tires, and poor lighting are among the leading causes of road crashes. Yet, many drivers continue to ignore these warnings, putting lives at risk.
The impact on road safety
Imagine a trotro breaking down in the middle of the road during rush hour, forcing passengers to scramble for another ride while causing a traffic jam. Or worse, a truck with faulty brakes failing to stop in time, leading to a deadly collision. These scenarios happen far too often, yet they are entirely preventable.
Poor vehicle maintenance doesn’t just affect the driver; it puts everyone at risk. The MTTD has warned that defective vehicle parts contribute to preventable accidents, leading to increased traffic congestion due to frequent breakdowns, higher fuel consumption as poorly maintained engines struggle to perform efficiently, and a greater risk of accidents, especially on highways where sudden failures can be fatal.
Changing the culture of neglect
To improve road safety, drivers must take responsibility for their vehicles. Regular servicing, routine inspections, and adherence to roadworthiness standards can significantly reduce accidents. The MTTD has urged vehicle owners to prioritize maintenance, emphasizing that properly functioning lights, brakes, and tires are crucial for preventing crashes.
Government agencies and transport unions must also step up efforts to enforce vehicle inspection laws. Stricter penalties for roadworthiness violations and incentives for regular maintenance could encourage drivers to take better care of their vehicles.
A little effort, A big difference
While Ghana continues to address road safety challenges, vehicle maintenance remains a crucial yet neglected factor. By prioritizing routine checks and servicing, drivers can save lives, reduce costs, and improve road conditions.
Next time you hop into a trotro, take a moment to observe the state of the vehicle, because road safety starts with every driver, every passenger, and every decision to maintain a car properly.
