The Ministry of Health, through the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has issued a nationwide health alert regarding a potential increase in road traffic accidents during the forthcoming Christmas celebrations.
In a press release dated December 15, the Ministry highlighted that the festive period has historically seen a rise in road crashes, many of which lead to preventable injuries and fatalities.
The statement indicated that data from health facilities, the National Road Safety Authority, the Ghana Police Service, and research institutions show that road traffic-related injuries have not diminished in recent years.
Key contributing factors include poor visibility during the harmattan season, heightened road usage, driver fatigue, and unsafe driving behaviours such as speeding, driving under the influence, dangerous overtaking, failure to use seat belts and helmets, substance abuse, and a general disregard for traffic laws.
The Ministry stressed that most of these risk factors are human-induced and can be effectively managed, noting that road crashes frequently result in catastrophic outcomes, including fatalities, amputations, disfigurement, and other serious injuries.
As part of preventive strategies, the Ministry advised drivers, motorcyclists, and tricycle operators to avoid speeding and unsafe overtaking, abstain from alcohol, drugs, and stimulants before or during driving, consistently wear seat belts and helmets, fully comply with traffic regulations, and ensure they are well-rested before undertaking long journeys.
Passengers and pedestrians were also encouraged to actively contribute to road safety by monitoring driver behaviour and voicing concerns about risky actions, wearing seat belts throughout their journeys, utilising designated pedestrian pathways, avoiding illegal road crossings, and remaining vigilant when on or near roadways.
The Ministry reiterated that road safety is a collective responsibility and reaffirmed its commitment, alongside the Ghana Health Service, to safeguarding the health and safety of all Ghanaians during the festive season.
Find the full statement below.
#Avoid #overspeeding #unsafe #overtaking #festive #period
Leave a Reply