Pressure From Motorcycle Owners Contributing to Road Accidents — Bibiani Okada/Pragya Association Chairman

Pressure From Motorcycle Owners Contributing to Road Accidents — Bibiani Okada/Pragya Association Chairman

The Chairman of the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipal Okada/Pragya Riders Association, Anthony Fiifi, has attributed the increasing rate of road accidents involving commercial motorbike riders to pressure from some motorcycle owners and the refusal of some riders to join recognized transport associations.

Speaking in an interview with the media, Mr. Anthony Fiifi disclosed that the association has introduced several measures aimed at reducing road accidents and promoting discipline among commercial motorbike riders within the municipality.

According to him, one of the major challenges confronting the association is the pressure some motorcycle owners place on riders to make daily sales and meet unrealistic financial targets.

He explained that such pressure often compels riders to over-speed, engage in dangerous overtaking, and disregard road safety regulations in an attempt to maximize income within a short period.

“Some motorcycle owners put too much pressure on riders to bring daily sales, and this forces many of them to over-speed and ride recklessly on the roads,” he stated.

Mr. Anthony Fiifi further revealed that many riders who own their motorcycles refuse to join the association because they believe there is no need to belong to a union or organized body.

According to him, this attitude prevents such riders from benefiting from regular road safety education, counseling, and guidance organized by the association for its members.

“Some riders say because they own their machines, there is no need for them to join the association. As a result, they fail to receive advice and road safety education from the union,” he explained.

He noted that the association frequently organizes meetings and sensitization programmes to educate riders on traffic regulations, safe riding practices, proper use of safety helmets, and the dangers associated with over-speeding and reckless riding.

Mr. Anthony Fiifi stressed that riders who fail to associate themselves with recognized unions often operate without proper guidance and supervision, increasing the risk of accidents on the roads.

He therefore appealed to all Okada and Pragya riders within the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipality to join recognized rider associations and cooperate with authorities in efforts to reduce road accidents and improve safety.

The chairman also called on motorcycle owners to prioritize the safety of riders rather than focusing solely on daily sales and profits.

He urged both riders and owners to ensure that motorcycles are properly maintained and that riders possess valid riding licenses before operating on public roads.

Mr. Anthony Fiifi reaffirmed the association’s commitment to working closely with the Ghana Police Service and the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) to intensify road safety education and promote responsible riding within the municipality.

Source:Bibianibews.com