Accra: The ongoing issue of obstructions on roads in Ghana, particularly abandoned vehicles, is contributing to numerous fatal accidents, with authorities seemingly inactive in addressing the problem. Many lives have been claimed due to moving traffic colliding with stationary vehicles, stirring concerns over road safety measures.
According to Ghana Web, the situation is exacerbated by a lack of prompt removal of these obstructions, which not only endangers motorists but also highlights a gap in the enforcement of road safety regulations. The report shares personal accounts, including one involving a fatal accident caused by a broken-down vehicle, to illustrate the severe consequences of this negligence.
The article suggests that the introduction of a breakdown cover system, similar to the one utilized in the UK, could be a viable solution. In the UK, motorists can rely on breakdown cover for roadside assistance, and police are actively involved in managing road obstructions, ensuring safety and swift traffic flow.
In Ghana, however, police often pass by abandoned vehicles without taking action, unlike their UK counterparts who engage recovery services to clear obstructions. The need for a systemic change is evident, with proposals for regional police commanders to be held responsible for accidents in their jurisdictions caused by such hazards.
The suggested approach includes collaborations between police and roadside recovery providers, establishing contracts to ensure timely services, and implementing punitive charges for failure to promptly remove broken-down vehicles. This would not only enhance road safety but also generate revenue for the police service.
For successful policy implementation, it is recommended that the police transition from static barriers to round-the-clock mobile highway patrols, increasing their chances of spotting and addressing road obstructions promptly. Such measures are deemed crucial to safeguarding lives and improving road conditions in Ghana.