By Comfort Sena Fetrie-Akagbor
Tema, Dec. 16, GNA -The Gye Nyame Truck Drivers Union in Tema has appealed to road construction companies to incorporate designated rest stops into the design of highways to enhance road safety and reduce crashes caused by driver fatigue.
Mr Kingsley Odum, Chairman of the union, said the provision of rest stops along highways was critical to promoting road safety, particularly for long-distance commercial drivers.
He made the appeal during a road safety awareness engagement organised by the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) aimed at promoting a crash-free Yulitide.
Mr Odum said driver fatigue remained a major contributor to road crashes, and providing safe resting areas would enable drivers to take short breaks to rest before continuing their journeys.
He noted that rest stops would also provide comfort, convenience and security for drivers, while serving as a safer alternative to roadside parking.
According to him, the absence of designated rest areas forced some commercial drivers, especially those operating under strict hours-of-service regulations, to park illegally on highway shoulders and ramps, creating significant safety hazards.
He added that properly planned rest stops should include basic amenities such as washrooms, food joints, and access to drinking water to enhance drivers’ comfort and well-being during long journeys.
Mr Odum further appealed to highway authorities to consider providing shelters at rest areas to serve as safe havens during emergencies, including severe weather conditions, poor visibility or minor vehicle breakdowns, to allow drivers to safely exit the roadway.
He said well-rested drivers were more alert and capable, stressing that improved driver alertness would enhance transportation efficiency and reliability while significantly reducing the risk of road crashes.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Kenneth Odeng Adade