The Ministry of Health, through the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has issued a nationwide health alert warning of a possible surge in road traffic accidents during the upcoming Christmas festivities.
In a press release dated December 15, the Ministry noted that the festive season has historically recorded increased road crashes, many of which result in preventable injuries and loss of lives.
According to the statement, data from health facilities, the National Road Safety Authority, the Ghana Police Service and research institutions indicate that road traffic-related injuries have not reduced in recent years.
Key contributing factors include poor visibility during the harmattan season, increased road use, driver fatigue, and unsafe road behaviours such as over-speeding, drunk driving, dangerous overtaking, non-use of seat belts and helmets, drug use, and general disregard for traffic regulations.
The Ministry stressed that most of these risk factors are human-made and can be effectively controlled, noting that road crashes often lead to devastating outcomes including deaths, amputations, disfigurement and other severe injuries.
As part of preventive measures, the Ministry advised drivers, motorcyclists and tricycle riders to avoid over-speeding and unsafe overtaking, refrain from alcohol, drugs and stimulants before or while driving, always wear seat belts and helmets, comply fully with traffic regulations, and ensure adequate rest before embarking on long journeys.
Passengers and pedestrians were also urged to play an active role in road safety by observing driver behaviour and speaking up against risky actions, wearing seat belts throughout journeys, using designated pedestrian walkways, avoiding illegal road crossings, and staying alert when on or near roads.
The Ministry emphasised that road safety is a shared responsibility and reaffirmed its commitment, together with the Ghana Health Service, to protecting the health and safety of all Ghanaians during the festive season and beyond.
