Scene of a Fatal Accident in The Gambia

Driving in The Gambia or anywhere for that matter requires a responsible and cautious approach to ensure the safety of both drivers and pedestrians. By following essential guidelines, maintaining your vehicle, and knowing how to react in the event of an accident, you can help create a safer driving environment for all.

According to the Foroyaa Newspaper, “the official statistics obtained from the police, from the year 2011 to 2021, about 121 people die annually as a result of road accidents in the Gambia, on average. Similarly, during the eleven years, 821 road traffic crashes occurred annually, on average. Over the same period, 2,738 people sustain serious injuries.” These statistics may be even higher than reported.

In this article, we will discuss the leading causes of accidents in the Gambia, key tips for safe driving, emphasize the importance of maintaining your car and provide guidance on what to do in case of an accident. Please read and share, being aware of these factors can help you reduce the likelihood of getting into a car accident and you never know whose life may be saved following your actions.

Three of the main Causes of Accidents in The Gambia

Speeding: Nowadays, everything around us is centred on the lure of quick convenience. Be it fast foods and ATMs are just some examples of our need for speed. But on the roadway, speed is undoubtedly deadly. Speeding is one of the most prevalent causes of car accidents in The Gambia today. By slowing down and giving yourself ample time to get where you need to go you may save your life and or others. It’s not worth saving 10 minutes for the potential of losing your life or putting another person in danger.

Distracted Driving: Together with speed, distracted driving continues to be one of the leading causes of car accidents in The Gambia. Talking on the phone, texting, using social media, eating, reading, and talking are just some of the ways drivers get distracted behind the wheel. Drivers who use a hand-held device are 6 times more likely to get into a car accident than drivers that pay attention to the road ahead. Individuals who text messages while driving are 27 times more likely to get into an accident. Do not risk your safety or your life. Put everything down and pay attention to the road ahead. It’s the single most important thing you can do today to reduce your risk of getting into a car accident.

Defective Vehicles: Vehicle defects are also a leading cause of car accidents in the Gambia. This includes defective or under inflated tyres, defective lights or indicators, defective brakes, defective steering or suspension, defective or missing mirrors and overloaded or poorly loaded vehicle or trailer.

Part 1: Tips to Avoid Accidents

  1. Observe Traffic Laws: Adhere to traffic rules and regulations set by the National Road Traffic Authority (NRTA). Follow speed limits, traffic signs, and signals to maintain order on the roads.
  2. Avoid the Use of Mobile Phones: One of the leading causes of accidents worldwide is the use of hand-held devices and The Gambia is no exception, focusing on the road ahead for the duration of your road trip could be the difference between you causing or avoiding accidents.
  3. Defensive Driving: Practice defensive driving techniques, anticipating the actions of other drivers and being prepared for unexpected situations. Stay alert, avoid distractions, and be courteous to fellow road users.
  4. Proper Overtaking: Use caution when overtaking other vehicles. Check for clear visibility, use indicators, and ensure there is enough space to complete the manoeuvre safely. Respect oncoming traffic and never overtake in hazardous areas.
  5. Pedestrian Awareness: The Gambia has a high pedestrian population. Be mindful of pedestrians and prioritize their safety. Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and avoid speeding in areas with heavy foot traffic.
  6. Road Condition Consideration: The condition of Gambian roads can vary. Drive cautiously, especially on poorly maintained or unpaved roads. Adjust your speed and be prepared for bumps, potholes, or other obstacles.

Part 2: Maintaining Your Vehicle for Safety

  1. Regular Vehicle Inspections: Schedule regular maintenance and inspections for your car, including checking brakes, lights, tyres, and fluid levels. Address any issues promptly to ensure optimal vehicle performance. What ever may be the case, please do not ignore dashboard warning lights, they may be difference between you avoiding or causing an accident. Get them check out as soon as practically possible.
  2. Tyre Maintenance: Ensure your tyres are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth. Bald or underinflated tyres can impact handling and increase the risk of accidents. Rotate and replace tyres as needed.
  3. Effective Brakes: Your car’s braking system is crucial for safe driving. Regularly check brake pads, discs, and brake fluid levels. If you notice any signs of reduced braking efficiency, have them inspected by a professional.
  4. Functional Lights: Ensure all your vehicle’s lights are working correctly, including headlights, indicators, brake lights, and taillights. Proper lighting is essential for visibility and signalling your intentions to other road users. As you maybe aware, the street lighting system in The Gambia is not as great, so having all your lights working properly is essential to avoiding accidents.

Part 3: What to Do in the Event of an Accident

  1. Stay Calm and Ensure Safety: Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Move your vehicle off the road, if possible, to avoid obstructing traffic. Activate your hazard lights and place warning triangles to alert other drivers.
  2. Contact Emergency Services: Contact the fire services and or the police to report the accident and provide accurate details of the location, injuries, and vehicles involved if any. Follow their instructions and cooperate with the authorities. Sometimes these are ignored, but they are vital to ensure other road users are informed and those involved in the accident could receive assistance quicker.
  3. Seek Medical Assistance: Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Declining medical attention could be catastrophic as some injuries such as internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent to you but by not seek help at the right time, you may bleed to death before you realised.
  4. Document the Accident: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damages and any relevant road conditions. Collect contact and insurance information from the other party involved. Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible even if you have a third-party insurance cover.


Safe driving is a collective responsibility that requires adherence to traffic rules, proactive vehicle maintenance, and knowing how to respond in the event of an accident. By implementing these tips, Gambian drivers can contribute to a safer road environment for all. Remember to prioritise the safety of pedestrians, maintain your vehicle’s condition to safe your life and others.