I wouldn’t be surprised if motorists challenge TraffiTech-GH in court – Martin Kpebu

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has cautioned that the TraffiTech-GH traffic enforcement system could trigger court battles if authorities fail to address concerns about its implementation and the reliability of the technology used to detect speeding offences.

He said motorists issued with violation tickets have the legal right to challenge the penalties in court, stressing that the system must be transparent and supported by credible evidence to ensure public confidence.

In an interview with JoyNews’ Emefa Akosua Adeti, Kpebu said he would not be surprised if motorists took legal action against penalties imposed through the system, describing such challenges as part of the country's legal process.

“Knowing Ghana the way we are, a country of laws, I wouldn’t be surprised if somebody were to challenge it. It’s okay. It helps to improve the boundaries of the law,” he stated.

He noted that drivers accused of traffic offences should be able to contest the allegations rather than automatically accept the fines issued against them.

Responding to questions about possible procedural weaknesses beyond the need for public education, Kpebu said the authorities must ensure that the technology delivers on its intended purpose of simplifying and accelerating the resolution of traffic violations.

He explained that the system should enable motorists to access video recordings of their alleged offences, verify the evidence and pay the prescribed fines where violations are established, without unnecessary delays or prolonged disputes.

“The main purpose of the TraffiTech is to make it easier and quicker for resolution of the breaches,” he explained.

However, Kpebu said the effectiveness of the system would largely depend on whether motorists trusted the accuracy of the speed detection equipment and the evidence it produces.

He cited previous controversies involving speed detection devices in Ghana, including allegations that some faulty equipment had been used by police officers to accuse motorists of exceeding speed limits.

According to him, those past experiences could fuel public scepticism towards TraffiTech-GH unless the authorities provide sufficient assurance that the equipment is reliable and that penalties are based on accurate evidence.