Accra: Part II of the investigative series "The Carnage on Ghana Roads: 'Na who cause am'?" delves into the stark differences in driving standards between Ghana and the UK, shedding light on the factors contributing to road safety in both countries.
According to Ghana Web, the role of insurance companies in Ghana is highlighted as a significant factor in the prevailing poor driving standards. In contrast to the fixed insurance premiums in Ghana, the UK considers various factors such as vehicle type, driver history, and past offenses, encouraging safer driving practices.
Moreover, the enforcement of driving standards is another area where Ghana lags behind. While the UK's Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) plays a pivotal role in road safety through conducting tests, approving instructors, and enforcing vehicle safety standards, Ghana's National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) appears less effective, often limited to appeals for caution following accidents.
The article also highlights dangerous driving practices prevalent in Ghana, such as inadequate overtaking distances and neglecting zebra crossings, which contribute to frequent accidents. Unlike the UK, where authorities deploy decoys to enforce compliance at zebra crossings, Ghana relies on police presence, often undermined by faded road markings due to substandard materials.
In terms of driver training, the UK mandates rigorous training and certification for specific vehicle types, such as fuel tankers, to prevent accidents. In contrast, Ghana's lax requirements for upgrading licenses without adequate training lead to hazardous driving conditions, particularly with heavy vehicles. The absence of ongoing professional training for drivers further exacerbates the situation, raising concerns about road safety management in Ghana.