The Ghana Police Service's Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) has issued a clarification on mobile phone use while driving. According to Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Alexander Kwaku Obeng, speaking on a mobile phone via a bluetooth system while driving does not infringe the law. This applies to both handsfree and vehicle's wireless phone network systems. The clarification aims to address public concerns and confusion regarding the use of mobile phones while driving.
The clarification follows remarks by the Programmes Manager of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) in the Ashanti Region, Samuel Adu Gyimah. He had stated that drivers who made phone calls or used car Bluetooth while driving would be arrested under the newly introduced camera system (Traffitech) in traffic rules enforcement. ACP Obeng's statement seeks to correct this misinformation and provide clarity on the regulations.
ACP Obeng emphasized that there is no law prohibiting drivers from talking while driving. He noted that freedom of speech is constitutionally guaranteed and cannot be taken away by regulations. However, the regulations require drivers to keep both hands on the steering wheel and their eyes on the road. This is to ensure safe driving practices and minimize the risk of accidents.
According to ACP Obeng, holding and operating a phone while driving poses a risk because it can take a driver's hand off the steering wheel and divert attention from the road. He stressed that using bluetooth is not an offence in itself. However, touching or repeatedly handling a device while driving can amount to distracted driving, which is a concern for road safety.
Regulation 132 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519), prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle on a road or in a public place while holding, using or operating a cellular or mobile telephone or any other communication device in one or both hands. The regulation allows drivers to contact emergency services when stopping is unsafe or impracticable.
A person who breaches the provision is liable, upon summary conviction, to a fine of up to 50 penalty units, imprisonment for up to three months, or both. With each penalty unit valued at GH¢12, the maximum fine is GH¢600. This penalty aims to deter drivers from engaging in distracting behaviour while driving.
The MTTD's clarification aims to educate the public on safe driving practices and the regulations surrounding mobile phone use while driving. Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution and follow the regulations to ensure road safety. The police will continue to enforce the regulations to prevent accidents and promote safe driving habits.
Key points
- Speaking on phone via bluetooth while driving is not an offence in Ghana.
- Holding or operating a phone while driving can amount to distracted driving.
- Breaching the regulation can result in a fine of up to GH¢600 or imprisonment for up to three months.
