A Senior Resident at the Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery Unit of the Tamale Teaching Hospital, Dr. Raphael Kwarase, says road accidents are a major contributor to deformities and trauma in most youth.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Wednesday March 11, Dr. Kwarase revealed that a significant number of accident cases treated at the hospital involve young males, who constitute the majority of victims.
He lamented that road accidents often result in serious injuries such as fractures to the arms and legs, head injuries, and in some cases, death.
According to him, such injuries can lead to permanent deformities, disabilities, severe short- or long-term pain, and lifelong medical conditions that require continuous treatment.
Dr. Kwarase explained that the widespread availability of these vehicles, combined with the involvement of underage and inexperienced riders, increases the likelihood of accidents. He noted that many young riders lack proper knowledge of road signs and safety regulations.
He further identified drunk riding or driving, drug abuse, over speeding, dodging potholes, and wrongful parking along roads as some of the major causes of road crashes.
“When we interact with victims of road accidents, we find that many of the cases are linked to over speeding, riding under the influence of alcohol, dodging potholes, and drug abuse.” He said.
He also attributed the high rates of road accidents to the rapid increase in the number of motorcycles and tricycles in communities has significantly contributed to the rising number of crashes.
“Twenty years ago, motorcycles were not common. The only motorcycles we mostly saw were those used by research field workers. But today, almost every household has a motorcycle, motor king, tricycle, or even a car, and many of them are being used by young people.” He said.
Beyond the physical injuries, he noted that road accidents also place a heavy emotional and financial burden on families, particularly when lives are lost or victims are left with long-term disabilities.
Dr. Kwarase urged the public, especially young riders, to strictly observe road safety measures such as wearing helmets, avoiding over speeding, refraining from alcohol and drug use while riding, and respecting road regulations.
He also called on government authorities and law enforcement agencies to strengthen the enforcement of road traffic regulations to ensure safer roads and reduce the rising number of accidents.
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