Ghana, a country with a growing population and economy, faces a significant road safety challenge. The statistics are alarming: in 2016, there were 1,802 reported fatalities and an estimated 7,018 total fatalities, with a further 105,270 serious injuries.
This not only results in immense human suffering but also has a significant economic impact, with the cost of fatalities and serious injuries estimated at US$ 4,507 million, equivalent to 8.2% of the country’s GDP.
The disproportionate impact on the economically productive age group (15-64 years) and males (3:1 ratio) is particularly concerning.
The loss of life and productivity has a ripple effect on families, communities, and the nation as a whole.
To address this critical issue, enforcement of traffic laws and regulations must be strengthened, with increased police presence and effective prosecution of offenders.
Furthermore, public education and awareness campaigns can help change driver behavior and promote a culture of road safety.
Investing in road infrastructure, such as pedestrian-friendly roads and bike lanes, and harnessing technology like speed cameras and tracking systems, can significantly enhance safety and reduce accidents.
Moreover, post-crash care and emergency services must be improved to reduce the severity of injuries and fatalities. This includes training for emergency responders, upgraded medical facilities, and efficient ambulance services.
Amidst the surge in road accidents, Dr. Paulina Agyekum, Managing Consultant, Ablin Consult Limited and a road safety expert, has emphasized the importance of personal precautions and strict adherence to traffic regulations to reduce road crashes.
She noted that reckless behavior on the roads, such as pedestrians and drivers recklessly rushing when they shouldn’t, and others exerting their ego behind the wheel, has led to countless fatal crashes, highlighting the urgent need for greater caution and humility on our roads.
“Everybody is responsible for their safety. There is a lot of ego on the road, everybody wants to have their own way…be wise for yourself. If someone is racing you on the road, let them go; if someone is doing the wrong thing, don’t imitate them. We are very egocentric on the road, and these are some of the little things that cause accidents on the road…Caution counts, don’t be in a hurry to go and die”.
Dr. Paulina Agyekum
Furthermore, Dr. Agyekum said road safety was crucial as road crashes continue to claim lives and cause permanent disabilities, highlighting the need for immediate attention and action.
Dr. Agyekum recognized the country’s advancements in road safety but emphasized that more work is needed to address existing gaps and achieve a comprehensive and effective road safety framework.
As such, she advocated for the National Road Safety Authority (NSRA) and stakeholders to introduce drug testing for drivers, akin to alcohol testing, to tackle the rising issue of drug-impaired driving and enhance road safety.
Road Safety And National Progress
Road safety is not only a matter of personal concern but also a critical aspect of national development, impacting the country’s economic, social, and human capital.
Road safety is essential for economic growth and development. Ghana loses a significant portion of its GDP due to road traffic accidents, which result in loss of productivity, damage to properties, and medical expenses.
As such, Ghana can reduce these economic costs and invest in other critical areas like education, healthcare, and infrastructure development by improving road safety.
Furthermore, road safety is vital for Ghana’s human capital development. Protecting young lives from traffic accidents enables them to reach their full potential, contributing to national progress.
Prioritizing road safety reduces disability and promotes social inclusion, enabling all Ghanaians to fully participate in society which enhances social development.
Moreover, good road safety boosts Ghana’s global reputation, attracting tourists and investors, and driving economic growth, while poor road safety deters them, hindering development.
As such, Ghana can enhance its global reputation and attract more tourists and investors and stimulate economic growth by improving road safety.
Road safety is a critical aspect of national development in Ghana, impacting economic growth, human capital development, social development, and international reputation.
By prioritizing road safety, Ghana can reduce the burden of road traffic accidents, promote sustainable development, and create a safer, more prosperous society for all.
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