Driver Injured in Ejisu Manhyia-Adadientem Street Accident: Analysis and Safety Guide

Publication Date: January 18, 2026
Source: Life Pulse Daily (Adapted)

Introduction

Road safety remains a critical concern in the Ashanti Region, particularly on high-traffic stretches like the Ejisu Manhyia-Adadientem street. A recent incident involving a Ford bus and an articulated truck has brought renewed attention to vehicle maintenance and driver safety protocols. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the accident, an analysis of the underlying causes, and practical advice for road users to prevent similar tragedies.

Key Points

Background

The Ejisu Manhyia-Adadientem street is a vital corridor within the Ashanti Region, facilitating the movement of commercial goods and daily commuters. Like many urban arteries in Ghana, this stretch experiences a mix of heavy-duty articulated trucks and smaller commercial vehicles. The density of traffic, combined with varying vehicle conditions, creates a complex environment for road safety.

Articulated trucks, often referred to as “trailer trucks,” are essential for logistics but pose significant risks if mechanical integrity is compromised. Historical data from the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) suggests that a substantial percentage of road accidents in the region involve commercial vehicles, often due to mechanical failures or human error.

Analysis of the Incident

Vehicle Dynamics and Impact

The collision involved a Ford bus with registration AS 9856-22 and an articulated truck with registration AS 5296-16. The severity of the damage to the Ford bus indicates a high-impact collision. In such scenarios, the disparity in mass between an articulated truck and a smaller bus often results in disproportionate damage to the lighter vehicle. The bus driver, Kojo, was trapped in the wreckage, a scenario that highlights the importance of structural integrity in passenger vehicles and the speed of emergency extraction.

The Brake Failure Hypothesis

Preliminary reports indicate that brake failure on the articulated truck (driven by Muntari Konaba) was the likely catalyst for the accident. Brake failure in heavy vehicles is a critical safety issue. Several factors can contribute to this:

• Overheating: Prolonged braking on gradients can cause “brake fade,” reducing stopping power.
• Hydraulic Leaks: Loss of fluid pressure in the braking system.
• Component Wear: Worn brake pads or drums that were not replaced during routine maintenance.

When brakes fail on an articulated truck, the driver often loses control entirely, making it impossible to avoid obstacles or slower-moving traffic.

Emergency Response and Medical Intervention

The role of passers-by was pivotal in the immediate aftermath. In the absence of rapid professional emergency services, bystander intervention—specifically safe extraction techniques—can be the difference between life and death. Kojo was transported to the Ejisu Government Hospital, where medical staff are addressing severe head and facial lacerations. The anonymity of the medical source cited in the original report underscores the sensitivity of patient privacy, but the focus on “further procedures” suggests the need for detailed imaging (CT scans) to rule out traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

Practical Advice for Drivers and Commuters

Vehicle Maintenance Best Practices

To prevent accidents caused by mechanical failure, drivers and fleet managers must adhere to strict maintenance schedules:

• Regular Brake Checks: Inspect brake pads, fluid levels, and air pressure (for pneumatic systems) every 10,000 km or as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Pre-Trip Inspections: Drivers should perform a basic walk-around check before starting a journey, looking for fluid leaks, tire wear, and warning lights on the dashboard.
• Professional Servicing: Avoid DIY repairs for critical systems like brakes and steering. Use certified mechanics.

Defensive Driving Techniques

Even with a well-maintained vehicle, defensive driving can mitigate risks:

• Maintain Safe Following Distance: Keep at least a 4-second gap from the vehicle ahead, especially behind heavy trucks. This provides reaction time if the truck stops suddenly.
• Avoid Blind Spots: Trucks have large blind spots on the sides and directly behind. If you cannot see the truck driver’s mirrors, they likely cannot see you.
• Listen for Warning Signs: Squealing brakes or hissing air from a truck can indicate mechanical issues. If you observe this, keep your distance and report the vehicle if safe to do so.

What to Do in an Emergency

If you witness an accident like the one on Ejisu Manhyia-Adadientem street:

1. Ensure Scene Safety: Check for fuel leaks or fire hazards before approaching.
2. Call Emergency Services: Dial 112 or the local ambulance service immediately. Provide clear location details.
3. Do Not Move the Victim Unnecessarily: Unless there is an immediate danger (e.g., fire), keep the victim still, especially if head or neck injuries are suspected. Stop bleeding by applying direct pressure.

FAQ

Conclusion

The accident on the Ejisu Manhyia-Adadientem street serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of road safety. While the quick action of bystanders likely saved the life of driver Kojo, the incident highlights the urgent need for rigorous vehicle maintenance and adherence to safety regulations. As investigations continue, both drivers and authorities must collaborate to ensure that mechanical failures do not lead to life-threatening consequences. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and vigilance is the first line of defense.