The Ministry of Health, through the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has issued a public alert of caution on the country's roads during the festive season to prevent deadly accidents.

This was contained in a statement signed by GHS Director-General Dr Samuel Kaba Akoriyea on Monday, December 15, warning that the Christmas festive season is often marked by a rise in road traffic accidents, many of which result in preventable injuries and loss of lives.

According to the ministry, records from health facilities across the country show that road traffic injuries remain high with no significant reduction over the years.

The ministry extended warm season greetings to Ghanaians but cautioned that increased travel during the festivities comes with serious risks.

The ministry said evidence from hospital data, the National Road Safety Authority, the Ghana Police Service, and research institutions points to several key factors behind road crashes and their severe outcomes.

These include poor visibility during the harmattan season, increased use of roads, driver tiredness and fatigue, and poor road-use behaviour.

The statement listed risky behaviours such as over-speeding, drunk driving, dangerous overtaking, failure to use seat belts, and the use of drugs, alcohol, and other stimulants by drivers as major contributors to accidents. Non-adherence to road traffic regulations was also identified as a key factor.

The ministry said that most of these causes are human-made and can be controlled. It noted that the health system continues to deal with the devastating effects of road crashes, including deaths, amputations, disfigurement, and other severe injuries.

“As a health system, we continue to see the devastating consequences of road crashes,” the statement said, adding that the public must play an active role in reducing the burden on families and the healthcare system.

As part of the alert, the ministry and the GHS issued safety advice to drivers, motorcycle riders, and tricycle operators.

They urged all road users to avoid overspeeding and overtaking in unauthorised or unsafe areas and to refrain from using drugs, alcohol, energy drinks, or other stimulants before or while driving.

Drivers and riders were also advised to always wear seat belts and helmets, comply fully with all road traffic regulations, and ensure they are well rested before embarking on any journey.

Passengers, both in private and commercial vehicles, were encouraged to remain alert and speak up when they observe risky behaviour from drivers. The Ministry advised passengers to wear their seat belts throughout their journey.

Pedestrians were also cautioned to use designated walkways, avoid illegal road crossings, and remain aware of their surroundings when on or near roads.

The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service stated that road safety is a shared responsibility. They reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the health and safety of all Ghanaians and urged the public to take road safety seriously during the Christmas season and beyond.

“Stay alert. Stay safe. Save lives,” the statement stated.