Cape Coast: The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) in the Central Region has raised significant concerns about the use of Bluetooth systems for making calls while driving, cautioning that it can be distractive and potentially lead to accidents. Mr. Kwame Opare, an Assistant Planning Manager, highlighted that despite the absence of explicit legal prohibition and the general belief among drivers that Bluetooth devices are safer, they still pose substantial risks.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Opare issued this warning during a road safety and insurance workshop organized by the Daniel Ntow Obese Foundation (DNOF) for commercial and institutional drivers in Cape Coast. The training aimed to promote responsible driving and reduce road crashes, attracting participants from the University of Cape Coast and various lorry stations throughout Cape Coast.
Facilitators from NRSA utilized videos, pictures, and statistical trends from 1999 to 2022 to emphasize the dangers of inattentive driving and the importance of defensive driving to prevent accidents. Mr. Opare advised drivers, "Although Bluetooth is better than using your cell phone, just park for a few minutes to answer the call before you continue with your journey." He warned that phone conversations could distract drivers, preventing them from observing their surroundings.
Health professionals at the workshop also educated drivers on handling medical emergencies, specifically administering first aid until qualified medical personnel arrive. Mr. Opare noted that the current Road Safety law did not foresee the introduction of such in-car devices and expressed uncertainty about whether a proposed amendment would address this issue.
Mr. Stephen Ekow Mensah, another Assistant Planning Manager at NRSA, instructed drivers on the principles of defensive driving, emphasizing full concentration, environmental awareness, danger anticipation, and tolerance of other road users. He pointed out that about 90 percent of road crashes result from human error, with speeding, inattentiveness, and improper overtaking being the primary causes.
Interestingly, most crashes occur on straight and illuminated roads rather than on sharp curves, T-junctions, crossroads, or poorly lit roads. Mr. Mensah advised against using mobile phones, eating, and engaging passengers while driving, as these actions are distractions. "Don't use handheld devices and practice mindfulness to remain alert, while observing your environment to make quick decisions," he cautioned.
Mr. Frederick Baidoo, Head of Transport at UCC, urged drivers to regularly maintain and service their vehicles to ensure safe driving conditions. "Ensure that you change your oil, brake pads, and service other important parts regularly because, at every point in time, the car must be fit for purpose," he stated.
Mr. George Amfo-Antiri, Board Secretary of the Foundation, explained that the workshop aimed to foster more responsible and defensive drivers to reduce accidents. He stressed the importance of being well-informed, regardless of holding a valid driver's license, to avoid endangering fellow road users.
A participant, Mr. John Asman Ansah Sams, shared that the workshop's videos taught him to exercise caution when overtaking, especially when the vehicle ahead is larger. The DNOF, established in honor of Mr. Daniel Ntow Obese, is committed to various social projects, including education and health.
