Accidents In Brong Ahafo Rise

THE spate of road accidents in the Brong-Ahafo Region is on the rise.

From Ian Motey, Sunyani

THE spate of road accidents in the

    Brong-Ahafo Region is on the rise.

Reported cases increased from 363 in 2007 to 412 in this year.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Paul Baah, in-charge of the Regional Police Motor Traffic and Transport Unit, disclosed this at a press briefing here yesterday.

The briefing formed part of activities to celebrate this year's National Road Safety Week which began on Monday.

ASP Baah also stated that there had been an alarming increase in the number of causalities recorded as a result of road accidents in the region this year.

Since January, 149 deaths have been recorded by the regional MTTU as compared to 97 the same period last year.

He said 613 people got injured through road accidents as compared to 301 during the same period, adding that 530 vehicles were involved in accidents from January to September, this year as against 418 last year.

He blamed the casualty figures on careless driving and excessive speeding by drivers.

Daniel Wuaku, Regional Manager of the National Road Safety Commission expressed concern about the increase in accidents in the region especially during the electioneering period.

He explained that fatigue-driving, none-use of seat belts and crash helmets and disrespect for other road users have also contributed to road accidents.

To reverse the trend, he said, the Commission has embarked on a series of educational campaigns to sensitise the public, which include meeting with religious leaders and organising road safety quiz for schools.