Causes of High Rate Accidents on Ghanaian Long Journey Roads

Fatal accidents on Ghana's long journey roads remain alarmingly high, but the real causes are more shocking than you think. To truly understand the crisis, we must go beyond the obvious and uncover the overlooked reasons, from reckless overtaking and hidden distractions to deep systemic failures. These truths could save a life.

Road accidents on Ghana's long-distance routes continue to claim a tragic number of lives and cause heartbreak for families. While it comes down to several factors to the crisis, certain recurring behaviors and deep-rooted problems significantly heighten the risk. Let's look at what's really going on:

First, we need to talk about the most critical issues nobody mentions, passengers’ lack of attentiveness to the driver's actions during journeys. On long trips, many travelers just put their trust in the driver, assuming the driver's competence alone ensures safety. However, a vigilant passenger can notice signs of fatigue, recklessness, or mechanical issues. Their alertness can act as a backup safety measure, helping to prevent potential mishaps. When passengers remain passive or indifferent, they unknowingly give a green light to reckless driving.

Another major contributing factor is the installation of television screens in long-distance buses. While intended to entertain travelers during extended trips, these screens often divert attention—not only from passengers but dangerously, from drivers too. Engaging content, especially loud or visually intense movies, can impair the driver's focus and hinder their quick judgment in sudden situations. This distraction poses a threat to everyone on board.

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Over speeding, particularly in areas where there is little or no enforcement by security personnel, is another deadly trend. Some drivers take advantage of the lack of police or road safety officials to exceed speed limits, especially along isolated highways. This creates a false sense of freedom and urgency, placing everyone on the road at significant risk. Without consistent enforcement, speed limits become mere suggestions rather than protective standards.

Perhaps worst of all, reckless overtaking is a constant danger. Many drivers, either due to impatience or overconfidence, perform dangerous maneuvers to bypass slower vehicles. These overtakes, often done on sharp curves or near hills without clear visibility, leave little room for correction in the face of oncoming traffic. It is a reckless practice that continues to claim lives and it's a clear sign of poor road discipline and inadequate driver training.