As dawn breaks across Ghana, the country awakens to a silent tragedy. according to the National Road Safety Authority, every single day, six lives are lost on the roads, turning morning routines into mourning rituals for at least six families. Behind the headlines and statistics lies a deeper story of grief, broken dreams, and a national crisis that continues to escalate.
According to the National Road Safety Authority, 1,504 people died in road crashes between January and June 2025, a 21.6% increase compared to the same period last year. That’s more than the total number of COVID-19 deaths Ghana recorded during the entire pandemic. In the same six months, 8,300 people were injured, and 1,301 pedestrians were knocked down. These numbers aren’t just statistics, they represent parents, children, workers, and students whose lives were cut short or changed forever.
The causes are many, but they often come down to human error and poor infrastructure. Over-speeding, drunk driving, and reckless overtaking are common on Ghana’s highways. Many drivers ignore traffic rules, while others operate vehicles with faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or broken lights. According to YEN.com.gh, motorcycles are increasingly involved in crashes, with riders often under the influence of opioids like tramadol, seeking energy boosts but losing control.
But it’s not just the drivers. Ghana’s roads themselves are part of the problem. Potholes, poor signage, and lack of street lighting make night travel dangerous. In many towns, pedestrians are forced to walk on the road because sidewalks are blocked by traders or parked vehicles. The result? More knockdowns, especially of children and the elderly.
The emotional and financial cost is staggering. Families lose breadwinners, children lose parents, and survivors often face lifelong disabilities. According to The B&FT, experts are calling for road crashes to be declared a national public health emergency. The advocacy group CUTS International has proposed reforms, from better coordination between agencies to stricter enforcement of speed limits and improved emergency response systems.
So what can be done?
The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) is pushing for stronger laws and more public education. Municipal assemblies are being urged to clear walkways and regulate billboard placements that block driver visibility. Technology like speed cameras and automated number plate recognition is being considered for high-risk areas. But change will also require a shift in mindset from drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.
Every sunrise should be a promise of life not a countdown to tragedy. Ghana’s roads must become safer, not just for the sake of statistics, but for the families who deserve to see their loved ones return home.
How drivers can help prevent road accidents
While road safety is a shared responsibility, drivers play a critical role in reducing accidents. Simple habits and smart decisions behind the wheel can save lives starting with your own. According to driving in the real world here are key actions every driver should take to stay safe and protect others:
Never drive when tired. Fatigue slows reaction time and impairs judgment, making it just as dangerous as drunk driving. If you feel drowsy, pull over and rest or switch drivers. Long-distance trips should be planned with breaks every two hours.
Avoid alcohol and drugs before driving. Even small amounts of alcohol or medication can affect your coordination and focus. If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver or use public transport. Driving under the influence is one of the leading causes of fatal crashes.
Check your vehicle regularly. Faulty brakes, worn-out tires, broken lights, and engine problems can turn a minor issue into a deadly accident. Before any trip, inspect your car’s condition, especially the tires, lights, and fluid levels. Regular servicing is not just good maintenance, it’s a safety measure.
Stay focused and avoid distractions. Mobile phones, loud music, and multitasking while driving can take your eyes off the road for crucial seconds. Keep both hands on the wheel and your attention on traffic conditions. If you need to make a call or send a message, pull over safely.
Respect speed limits and traffic signs. Speeding reduces your ability to react to sudden changes, like a pedestrian crossing or a car braking ahead. Traffic signs are there to guide and protect you ignoring them puts everyone at risk.
Use seatbelts and encourage passengers to do the same. Seatbelts reduce the risk of serious injury by up to 50%. Make it a habit, even for short trips.
By following these tips, drivers can help turn Ghana’s roads from danger zones into safe passageways. It’s not just about avoiding fines, it’s about arriving alive.
Passenger safety: What you can do to prevent road accidents
While drivers carry the main responsibility on the road, passengers also play a vital role in keeping everyone safe. Being alert, respectful, and proactive can help prevent distractions and dangerous situations. According to Driving in the Real World, here are some smart ways passengers can contribute to road safety:
Passengers should always wear seatbelts, no matter how short the trip is. Seatbelts reduce the risk of serious injury by half and are a basic but powerful safety measure. If you’re traveling with children, make sure they’re properly buckled in age-appropriate car seats or boosters.
Avoid distracting the driver. Loud conversations, sudden movements, or unnecessary arguments can take the driver’s focus off the road. If the driver seems stressed or is navigating heavy traffic, offer to help with directions or stay quiet to let them concentrate.
Speak up if the driver is behaving recklessly. If they’re speeding, texting, or driving under the influence, don’t stay silent. Suggest pulling over or offer to call a taxi. Your voice could prevent a crash. If you feel unsafe, it’s okay to refuse the ride altogether.
Help with navigation and phone use. If the driver needs to check a map or send a message, offer to do it for them. This keeps their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
Stay alert to road conditions. Passengers can act as extra eyes, watching for pedestrians, animals, or sudden obstacles. If you notice something the driver missed, calmly point it out.
Respect the vehicle’s space. Don’t block mirrors, pile up items on the dashboard, or interfere with controls. A clutter-free car helps the driver stay focused and react quickly.
Encourage safe habits. Remind the driver to slow down in school zones, obey traffic signs, and take breaks on long trips. Sometimes a gentle nudge from a friend or family member makes all the difference.
