Accra: Chief Inspector Frimpong Ayeh of the Ghana Police Service has cautioned motorists that installing television monitors or similar devices on their vehicle dashboards could attract sanctions under Ghanaian law. According to him, while in-car entertainment systems are permitted under certain conditions, placing such devices within the driver's view is a clear violation of road safety regulations.
According to Ghana Web, Chief Inspector Frimpong Ayeh explained that drivers are only allowed to install monitors for the benefit of passengers seated behind them. He made it clear that drivers who install screens on their dashboards commit an offence. "While monitors may be installed for passengers seated behind the driver, placing one in the front for the driver's use is prohibited," he said, emphasizing the restriction is necessary to prevent distractions that could lead to accidents on the road.
Highlighting the potential dangers, he noted that drivers cannot combine driving with watching television. "You can't be driving and watching TV at the same time. It is against the law," he stressed. Chief Inspector Frimpong Ayeh further referenced Regulation 189, which outlines the penalties for such violations.
Outlining the punishment, he stated that offenders found guilty could face arrest and prosecution. "Regulation 189 states that anyone found culpable for such an offence should be arrested and taken to court to be fined 300 penalty units, equivalent to GHS300, or 30 days' imprisonment, or both," he added. He reiterated, "It is against the law in Ghana to fix a television monitor or a similar device on the dashboard of a vehicle. Offenders will be liable to a fine of GHS300 or 30 days' imprisonment or both."