Road Safety Authority urges caution as rains increase crash risks

National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has urged caution to motorists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians during the rainy season in the Volta Region to help reduce road crashes and save lives. The NRSA Planning Manager, Bismark Elorm Sackitey, said rainy weather conditions pose unique challenges to road users due to wet road surfaces, poor visibility, flooding, and reduced vehicle control.

Mr. Sackitey noted that the combination of slippery roads and heavy rainfall significantly increases the risk of accidents and called on all road users to adopt responsible behaviour while travelling. He explained that wet road surfaces reduce tyre grip, while poor visibility affects drivers' judgment and reaction time. He added that flooded roads can conceal potholes and damaged sections, making driving even more hazardous. He identified speeding on wet roads, tailgating, driving with worn-out tyres, using faulty windscreen wipers, and engaging in unnecessary overtaking as some of the common mistakes drivers make during rainy conditions. He advised motorists to reduce speed, maintain safe following distances, and ensure their tyres, brakes, lights, and windscreen wipers are in good working condition before embarking on any journey.

Motorcyclists were encouraged to wear appropriate protective gear, reduce speed, avoid slippery road edges, and ensure their headlights are functioning properly. Pedestrians were also advised to use designated crossing points, avoid rushing across roads during rainfall, and wear visible clothing in poor weather conditions. Mr. Sackitey urged members of the public to report road safety concerns to the NRSA Regional Office and reiterated the Authority's safety message: "Stay Alive: Stop the Devil's Work."