10% of accident-related deaths are due to the use of inferior tyres – NRSA

The Public Relations Officer of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Pearl Adusu Sateckla, has disclosed that 10 percent of all accident-related deaths are caused by inferior tyres.

She explained that several drivers lose control while driving, and this is usually attributed to the poor condition of their tyres and other parts of their vehicles.

The PRO said the roadworthiness of some vehicles is terrible and largely contributes to accidents.

Pearl Adusu Sateckla said that as part of their campaign in partnership with Rana Motors, they are advising drivers to invest in high-quality tyres since the inferior ones they buy are one of the major causes of road accidents.

She stressed the need for drivers to maintain discipline on the roads by avoiding speeding, overtaking, and other road traffic breaches to reduce the number of road accidents.

“We all have a responsibility as Ghanaians to help reduce road accidents. There are several factors leading to road accidents. But the four major ones are speeding, inattention, and the use of mobile phones while driving. Speeding is one of the major issues. Some drivers drive above the speed limits. Speeding leads to several deaths when accidents occur. Inattentiveness is also another issue. It involves several factors. They are those who use their mobile devices when driving. They WhatsApp; they chat with others while driving. Others may also be going through some challenges, including money-related problems, among others.

"The other issue is loss of control, which is usually caused by inferior tyres. Ten percent of all crashes or accident-related deaths are caused by inferior tyres. The engineering system, the electrical system, the engine, the steering, and other parts of the vehicle should always be examined to ensure that they are in good condition. Drunk driving and wrongful overtaking are also contributing factors,” she said.

She therefore advised Ghanaians to be concerned about road accidents.

The negative impact of road crashes, she indicated, was alarming and had lifelong effects, hence the need for every stakeholder to be interested in road safety management.

“Road accidents are real. They destroy lives, kill people, and could lead to serious injuries where those affected may have their legs or hands amputated. You could end up being disabled. That is why it is important that pedestrians take caution while on the road. Passengers should also hold drivers accountable and demand discipline from them while on the road. Duty-bearers should also ensure good and motorable roads. Our leaders should also fund road safety management campaigns to help educate the public,” she said in an interview on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM.