Be discipline, responsible to avoid accidents – police urges ‘okada’riders 

Motorcycle riders have been urged to observe road safety regulations in order to prevent accidents and loss of lives. 

The appeal targets commercial operators, amid concerns over rising indiscipline and disregard for basic safety requirements on the roads. 

Assistant Superintendent of Police Anthony Zumoh Baligi, Osu Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) Commander, gave the advice during a health screening and safety training for riders in Accra. 

The exercise, organised by Impact World 360°, a non-profit corporation, trained more than 70 riders in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), bleeding control and safe handling of accident victims to improve response at crash scenes. 

ASP Baligi said many riders undertook journeys without considering the consequences, despite having dependents.

He said some operators rode without valid licences, insurance, and proper registration of their motorcycles. 

“In some cases, riders are unable to confirm whether the motorbikes they use are roadworthy or even legally acquired,” he mentioned. 

ASP Baligi also indicated that some riders even attempted to bribe police officers when arrested, but later accused them of corruption, stressing that compliance with the law remained the best way to avoid confrontation. 

He said disregard for traffic rules, including lane discipline and right-of-way, as well as riding against traffic and weaving through vehicles, increased the risk of crashes. 

ASP Baligi identified fatigue as a major risk factor, noting that long hours on the road without adequate rest impaired judgment and reaction time. 

He further stated that road crashes also imposed financial burdens, including costs of investigations and mandatory testing, which could be avoided through responsible riding. 

ASP Baligi advised riders to ensure their documents were in order, respect traffic regulations and allow sufficient time for rest. 

He also urged employers to avoid placing undue pressure on riders to meet unrealistic delivery deadlines. 

The programme included health screening for conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes as well as practical emergency response training. 

Nana Noi, Coordinator of Impact World 360°, described the initiative as a “gamechanger,” combining health awareness with emergency response training. 

She said the initiative could help reduce fatalities associated with road crashes. 

The programme, supported by the United States Embassy in Ghana, aimed to encourage participants to share life-saving knowledge within their communities. –GNA