Road crashes decline in Upper East, but motorcycle deaths remain high – Report

Road traffic crashes, injuries and deaths in the Upper East Region declined significantly in the first quarter of 2026, although motorcycle-related fatalities remain a major concern, according to a report by the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA). 

A report on road traffic statistics for January to March 2026 from the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) indicated that a total of 25 crashes were recorded, involving 42 vehicles, compared to 37 crashes involving 62 vehicles during the same period in 2025. 

The report, made available to the Ghana News Agency in Bolgatanga by Mr John Quarshie, the Regional Public Relations Officer of the NRSA, said 22 people were killed and 14 injured in the period under review, representing decreases of 26.67 per cent in deaths and 81.08 per cent in injuries compared to 2025 figures of 30 and 74 respectively. 

It noted that February recorded the highest number of fatalities, with 10 deaths, representing 45.45 per cent of total deaths, followed by March with seven deaths (31.82 per cent), and January with five deaths (22.73 per cent). 

Motorcycles accounted for the majority of fatalities, contributing 86.36 per cent of all deaths, while private vehicles accounted for 13.64 per cent. No deaths were recorded among occupants of commercial vehicles. 

The report highlighted that motorcyclists and their pillion riders remained the most vulnerable road users, with 19 out of the 22 recorded deaths linked to motorcycle crashes. 

It attributed the high motorcycle fatality rate to non-compliance with road traffic regulations, including failure to wear crash helmets, speeding, disobedience of traffic signals and riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

Despite the high proportion of motorcycle-related deaths, the report noted an overall reduction of 33.33 per cent in motorcycle fatalities compared to the same period in 2025. 

In terms of vehicle involvement, motorcycles recorded the highest share of crashes, accounting for 28 cases or 50 per cent of all crashes, followed by commercial and private vehicles. 

Pedestrian knockdowns also declined from four cases in 2025 to two cases in 2026, representing a 50 per cent reduction. 

The report further revealed that males accounted for 86 per cent of the fatalities, while females represented 14 per cent. 

Most of the victims were aged 18 years and above, indicating that economically active persons were the most affected group. 

To address the situation, the NRSA, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, said it would roll out targeted interventions aimed at improving motorcycle safety and further reducing road crashes and casualties in the region. 

It, therefore, urged all road users, particularly motorcyclists, to strictly adhere to traffic regulations to help sustain the gains made in reducing road crashes and fatalities. 

Source: GNA