The Ministry of Health, through the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has issued a health alert warning the public of a heightened risk of road traffic accidents during the Christmas festivities, urging drivers, passengers and pedestrians to take extra precautions to save lives.
In a statement issued on Monday, December 15, 2025, and signed by the Acting Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the Service noted that the festive season has historically recorded a surge in road traffic accidents, many of which result in preventable injuries and loss of lives.
According to the GHS, records from health facilities across the country show that road-traffic-related injuries remain high, with no significant reduction in recent years. Data from hospitals, the National Road Safety Authority, the Ghana Police Service and research institutions point to several contributing factors to the accidents and their severity.
These include poor visibility during the harmattan season, increased road usage, driver fatigue, and poor road-use behaviours such as over-speeding, drunk driving, dangerous overtaking, non-use of seat belts and helmets, as well as the use of drugs, alcohol and other stimulants by drivers. Non-adherence to road traffic regulations was also identified as a major risk factor.
The Ghana Health Service stressed that most of these causes are human-made and can be controlled, noting that the health system continues to bear the devastating consequences of road crashes, including deaths, amputations, disfigurement and other severe injuries.
As part of efforts to reduce accidents during the festive season, the GHS advised drivers, motorcycle and tricycle riders to avoid over-speeding and unsafe overtaking, desist from the use of alcohol, drugs, energy drinks or stimulants while driving, and ensure the consistent use of seat belts and helmets.
Drivers were also urged to comply fully with road traffic regulations and ensure they are well rested before embarking on any journey.
Passengers and pedestrians were equally advised to remain vigilant, speak up when drivers engage in risky behaviour, wear seat belts throughout their journeys, use designated pedestrian walkways and avoid illegal road crossings.
They were also encouraged to stay alert and aware of their surroundings when on or near roads.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” the statement emphasized, adding that the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service remain committed to protecting the health and safety of all Ghanaians.
The Service urged the public to join efforts to reduce road traffic accidents during the Christmas season and beyond.
