Accra: The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has urged pedestrians in the Volta Region to exercise extreme caution during the rainy season, warning that wet weather conditions significantly increase the risk of road traffic crashes and fatalities.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Bismack Elorm Sackey, the Planning Manager of the NRSA in Ho, highlighted that heavy rainfall often reduces visibility, floods walkways, and creates unsafe conditions that expose pedestrians to greater danger on the roads. He noted that pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users, especially during rainfall when both drivers and pedestrians face challenges in seeing clearly and reacting promptly to hazards.
Mr. Sackey explained that rain reduces visibility for both drivers and pedestrians, while wet road surfaces make it more difficult for vehicles to stop quickly. These conditions, if not properly addressed, increase the likelihood of crashes. He pointed out that many pedestrians are forced to share flooded roadways with vehicles due to the absence of walkways, thereby increasing their exposure to road traffic dangers.
He further explained that umbrellas, raincoats, and poor weather conditions could obstruct visibility and limit pedestrians' ability to detect approaching vehicles. Mr. Sackey identified unsafe behaviors, such as crossing roads without checking for oncoming traffic, running across roads to avoid getting wet, walking on carriageways instead of designated walkways, and using mobile phones or earphones while walking, as major risk factors during rainfall.
Mr. Sackey cautioned pedestrians against assuming that motorists could always see them in poor weather conditions and advised them to remain alert at all times. He stressed the importance of using designated walkways and crossing points where available and observing the basic road safety practice of stopping and looking both ways before crossing any road.
He also encouraged wearing bright or reflective clothing to improve visibility, especially during heavy rainfall and poor lighting conditions. Additionally, Mr. Sackey called on parents and guardians to pay particular attention to the safety of children during the rainy season by supervising them near roads and teaching them safe road-crossing practices.
Mr. Sackey advised adults to hold younger children's hands when crossing busy roads and discourage them from playing in floodwaters near roadways. He also appealed to drivers to play their part by reducing speed, particularly in communities, market centers, residential areas, and around schools, bus stops, and pedestrian crossings.
He urged motorists to use headlights appropriately, give pedestrians adequate time and space to cross safely, and avoid splashing water onto pedestrians when driving through puddles. Mr. Sackey emphasized that pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility requiring cooperation between motorists and pedestrians.
He concluded by appealing to all road users to exercise patience, remain alert, and adhere to road safety precautions to help prevent avoidable injuries and fatalities during the rainy season.