The North East Regional Directorate of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has identified reckless overloading and drug use, especially among motorcycle riders, as primary causes of road accidents in the region.
Patrick Osei Tutu, the regional director, reported a concerning trend in road safety statistics for the first half of this year.
The region experienced 18 road-related crashes from January to June, resulting in 11 fatalities and 23 injuries.
This marks a decrease from the previous year when there were 28 crashes, 75 injuries, and 18 deaths.
In an interview with Asaase News, Osei Tutu highlighted that motorcycle riders significantly contribute to the high accident rates.
“Motorbike accidents are the highest among various types of vehicles,” he explained. “We have commercial vehicles, private vehicles, and motorcycles.
Among them, motorbike riders—called ‘yellow-yellow riders’ and ‘motor kings’—are leading in causing accidents in the region.”
Osei Tutu further attributed these accidents to two main factors: overloading and drug use.
“When you look at some of the issues leading to these crashes, overloading of motorbikes is a major concern,” he noted.
Additionally, he pointed out that riders who are under the influence of drugs are more likely to cause problems on the roads.
To address these issues, Osei Tutu urged all road users—motorists, pedestrians, and other road participants—to exercise greater caution and responsibility while using the roads.
“We urge everyone to be mindful of their actions on the road to prevent accidents and enhance road safety,” he said.
The NRSA continues to emphasize the importance of adhering to road safety regulations and practices to reduce the incidence of road accidents and improve overall road safety in the region.
