Ghana has passed a new law banning the use of mobile phones while driving
The new rules includes sending text messages, using hands-free devices and the operation of television monitors on the dashboard of vehicles when driving.
According to the new Road Traffic Regulations act passed by the parliament, drivers caught breaking the law will be arrested and fined.
It is believed that the prohibition of the use of the devices would greatly minimise accidents on the country's roads.
The law would come into effect on July 6, 2012. It exempts personnel of the security agencies due to the nature of their business.
In 2011, the Motor Traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) of the Ghana Police Service recorded about 2,330 fatalities and 13,572 road crashes nationwide.
Using a mobile phone while driving can be distracting and may increase one's chances of a crash by as much as four times, according to researchers. It distracts one physically, visually and cognitively since the driver's attention is more focused on the conversation, causing loss of concentration behind the wheel.
