Accra: Worn out tyres, deteriorating road conditions, and improperly managed wide loads have been identified as major contributors to the alarming number of road accidents in Ghana, raising urgent calls for more stringent regulations and enforcement to enhance road safety.
According to Ghana Web, the lack of legal tyre tread depth limits in Ghana allows the use of second-hand tyres, which often do not meet international safety standards. Tyres with insufficient tread depth fail to maintain adequate grip on the road, leading to compromised vehicle stability and an increased likelihood of accidents. Motorists are advised to adhere to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended tyre pressure, which can often be found inside the driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual, to prevent tyre-related accidents.
In contrast, many countries, including the UK, enforce strict regulations on tyre tread depth, with non-compliance resulting in significant fines and penalty points. The absence of such regulations in Ghana means that tyres are used as long as they fit the vehicle, regardless of their condition. Additionally, overinflated or underinflated tyres pose further risks, including discomfort, potential tyre bursts, excessive fuel consumption, and tyre damage.
The state bears the responsibility for maintaining road conditions, which have a significant impact on road safety. International standards suggest that asphalt roads should last between 15-25 years, while concrete roads have a lifespan of 30-40 years. However, roads in Ghana, such as the Tamale - Paga road and the Accra - Tema Motorway, have surpassed these lifespans without adequate maintenance or reconstruction, leading to dangerous driving conditions.
Furthermore, the lack of weight restrictions for vehicles in Ghana contributes to the rapid deterioration of road surfaces and increases the risk of accidents. Trucks often carry loads far exceeding their safe capacity, resulting in frequent tyre bursts and vehicle breakdowns. In the UK, maximum permissible loads are strictly regulated, whereas in Ghana, trucks can carry over 100 tons without restrictions, severely impacting road infrastructure and safety.
Wide trailers, especially those used for transporting charcoal, exacerbate the problem by obstructing drivers' views and preventing them from seeing approaching vehicles, including emergency services. The failure of regulatory bodies to enforce rules on heavy goods vehicle loading has not only endangered road users but also undermined the effectiveness of emergency response vehicles.
To address these issues, it is imperative for the government to introduce and enforce tyre tread depth limits and ensure that roads are maintained to international standards. Such measures would significantly enhance road safety and reduce the number of accidents in the country.