Factors influencing compliance with road safety protocols by commercial drivers at Hohoe in the Volta region of Ghana: a cross-sectional study

Introduction Looking at the divisional distribution of crashes and casualties in the first half of 2022 in the Volta region of Ghana, the Hohoe division recorded just 7 crashes, accounting for 3.6% of all reported crashes, one of the lowest among the divisions in the region. Notably, no fatalities were reported, suggesting relatively better road safety performance during this period. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the factors that contributed to compliance among commercial drivers at Hohoe in the Volta region of Ghana during the first half of 2022—a period when the area reportedly recorded comparatively better road safety outcomes than other regions. Methods Using cross–sectional survey design and the census sampling technique, 395 (100%response rate) commercial drivers were recruited for the study. A structured questionnaire was used to measure key variables. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, Pearson's chi–square test, and binary logistic regression in SPSS version 27. Results The study found that 89% of commercial drivers observed compliance. Significant positive associations were found between compliance and sociodemographic characteristics ( p < .001), human factors ( p < .001), vehicle factors ( p < .001), environmental factors ( p < .001), and road factors ( p < .001). Discussion The study findings, therefore, suggest that a multi–pronged policy approach that addresses vehicles, roads, the environment, human factors, and driver skills is critical for improving road safety protocols compliance among commercial drivers at Hohoe. By targeting both structural and human dimensions of road safety, authorities can reduce traffic violations, prevent accidents, and promote safer transport operations in the Volta region.