Tamale, Jan. 22, GNA - The number of road accidents recorded in the Northern Region in 2008 decreased significantly as compared to what was recorded in the year 2007 but fatalities were slightly higher lat year. The number of traffic accidents recorded by the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) in the region indicate that in 2007 the total number of accident cases were 368 as compared to 118 in 2008. The number of people who lost their lives as a result of these accidents in 2007 was 67 as compared to 70 in 2008, while the number of injured people was 157 and 178 respectively for the same periods. Mr. Daniel R. K. Kumah, Station Officer of the Regional MTTU, who disclosed this in an interview with the GNA, attributed most of the fatal accidents to motor riders whom he said failed to wear helmets and other protective clothing.

He said the motor riders in addition to careless riding failed to obey other road traffic regulations. He, however, commended commercial drivers in the region for their present adherence to traffic regulations, which had prevented accidents on their part. He said the MTTU in collaboration with the Regional Road Safety Committee had mounted vigorous educational campaigns at the lorry stations to educate drivers and other road users on road traffic regulations. Mr. Kumah said his outfit would very soon step up the arrest and prosecution of those who flouted motor traffic regulations, especially those who rode without helmets or license and insurance papers. 22 Jan.09