Ghana's new Road Traffic Regulations, effective in 2026, could see drivers facing hefty fines or imprisonment for various infractions. The regulations, outlined in L.I. 2519, were prepared by D/Sgt Nana Kwadwo Otibu-Gyan of the Legal and Prosecution Unit, RHQ/Ho, and cover everything from street racing to improper parking.
Street racing, drag racing, and speed competitions will attract penalties ranging from 10 to 25 penalty units. Offenders may also face up to 30 days in jail. The same penalties apply to anyone participating in unauthorized races.
Failure to stop at STOP or YIELD signs carries similar consequences. According to Sections 222(1) to 222(6), neglecting to yield the right of way or stopping before a pedestrian crossing can lead to fines of 10 to 30 penalty units, alongside a potential 30-day prison sentence. Jumping a red light incurs the same penalties under Sections 222(7) and (8).
Railway crossings now have stricter enforcement measures. Section 223 imposes fines of 5 to 25 penalty units for failing to stop at designated distances from railway lines or proceeding while it is unsafe. Walking or driving around a closed railway gate incurs identical penalties.
Overtaking at pedestrian crossings is also under scrutiny. Section 224 states that overtaking a vehicle stopped to allow pedestrians to cross results in a fine of 10 to 25 penalty units or imprisonment for up to 30 days. Failing to slow down while approaching a marked pedestrian crossing carries the same consequences.
Disobeying traffic control officers or devices is another serious offence. Section 226(3) details fines of 10 to 25 penalty units or a maximum of 30 days imprisonment for those who ignore these instructions. Using bus stops or taxi stands without proper authorization also incurs the same penalties.
Parking violations have been clearly defined as well. Section 228(3) states that parking in spaces reserved for persons with disabilities without proper entitlement can lead to fines of up to 25 penalty units and imprisonment for up to eight months. Other parking-related offences, such as parking contrary to traffic signs or stopping in front of building entrances, are penalized similarly.
The regulations extend to public transport, with specific provisions for funeral processions. Driving through a funeral or authorized procession can result in fines of 10 to 25 penalty units or up to 30 days in jail, according to Section 230(3). Additionally, stopping or parking buses and taxis outside designated areas incurs the same penalties under Section 231(4).
Automated enforcement is a new feature of the regulations, allowing traffic enforcement devices to identify offences. This could lead to graduated fines and the suspension or revocation of a driverâs licence after repeated violations.
The introduction of these regulations aims to address longstanding issues on Ghana's roads, where reckless driving and disobedience of traffic rules have contributed to accidents and fatalities. The graduated fines reflect a serious approach to tackling these challenges.
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As Ghana prepares for these changes, drivers should familiarize themselves with the new regulations to avoid potential legal troubles. With the penalties outlined, the message is clear: compliance is no longer optional.
According to Joy Online.
