Speed Limits in Ghana
Speed limits in Ghana are set to protect lives, not to slow drivers unnecessarily. Many accidents occur because drivers either do not know the correct speed limit or ignore road conditions. The Ghana Driver's Guide makes it clear that drivers must always drive at a speed that is safe and lawful.
Important: Posted speed signs always override general speed limits.
Why Observing Speed Limits Is Important
- High speed reduces reaction time in emergencies
- Stopping distance increases as speed increases
- Pedestrians and cyclists are more at risk at high speeds
- Maintaining safe speed reduces chances of serious injury or death
- Better vehicle control and fuel efficiency at appropriate speeds
- Reduced wear and tear on vehicle components
MAXIMUM SPEED UNDER IDEAL CONDITIONS
100 km/h
This means you may need to drive below this limit!
Typical Speed Limits by Area
| Area Type |
Maximum Speed |
| Urban areas (towns and cities) |
50 km/h |
| Single carriageway (outside towns) |
80 km/h |
| Dual carriageway |
100 km/h |
| Motorways |
100 km/h |
| Special zones (schools, markets, hospitals) |
30 km/h |
⚠️ Important: These are maximum limits. Adjust your speed lower for traffic, weather, or poor road conditions.
Vehicle-Specific Limits
🚗
Private Cars
100 km/h
Up to the road limit, but must adjust for conditions
🚌
Commercial Buses (Trotro)
80 km/h
Maximum speed regardless of road type
🚛
Heavy Goods Vehicles (Trucks)
75-80 km/h
Loaded: 75 km/h, Empty: 80 km/h
🏍️
Motorcycles
80 km/h
Maximum speed on any road
Note: Heavier vehicles must maintain lower speeds to ensure control and safety, especially when loaded.
Where to Watch Your Speed
🏫
School Zones
Reduce speed to 30 km/h or less near schools and playgrounds
🚧
Construction Areas
Slow down for road works, workers, and equipment
↪️
Sharp Bends
Reduce speed on curves and narrow roads
🛒
Markets & Busy Areas
Extra caution needed at markets, pedestrian crossings, and busy areas
⚠️ Dangerous: Ignoring speed limits in these areas is extremely dangerous and can cause severe accidents.
Consequences of Speeding
Speeding in Ghana may result in:
💰
Substantial Fines
10–50 penalty units (approx. GHS 120-600) under Regulation 165
⚖️
Court Summons
Appearance before court for summary conviction
🚫
Licence Suspension
Temporary or permanent loss of driving licence
💀
Accident Risk
Higher risk of accidents causing injury or death
Reality check: Speeding is a leading cause of road accidents in Ghana. Driving too fast can be prosecuted as careless or dangerous driving under Regulation 150 of LI 2180.
Additional Consequences:
- Increased insurance premiums after speeding offences
- Difficulty renewing driver's licence with pending cases
- Professional drivers may lose their commercial permits
- Criminal record affecting future employment opportunities
- Civil liability for damages in accident cases
- Vehicle impoundment during investigation of serious incidents
Summary (Quick Revision)
🏙️ Urban areas: 50 km/h maximum (towns and cities)
🛣️ Motorways/Dual carriageways: 100 km/h maximum
🌳 Single carriageway rural roads: 80 km/h maximum
🚸 Special zones (schools, markets): 30 km/h or less
🚌 Commercial buses: 80 km/h maximum regardless of road
🚛 Trucks: 75 km/h loaded, 80 km/h empty
🏍️ Motorcycles: 80 km/h maximum on any road
🚦 Posted speed signs ALWAYS override general limits
🌧️ Always adjust speed for road, weather, and traffic conditions
⚖️ Speeding = fines, court, licence suspension, and criminal record
🎯 Remember: Safe arrival is more important than fast arrival.
Speed limits save lives on Ghana's roads.
