OLX, FRSC educate road users on safe driving

Cyriacus Nnaji:

OLX.com.ng the leading online classifieds site has partnered with Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) to share safety tips with road users this festive season.

The press release made available to Newworldnewsng, said this is to ensure that Nigerians have a stress-free travel during the yuletide season.

Hygenius Omejei, Sector Commander of FRSC advised that motorist should ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy. He said they should take their cars to the mechanic for a thorough inspection to run a detailed diagnostic check which should include the tyres to ensure the car is capable of taking the long journey ahead.

Omejei also stressed on what he called Defensive Driving adding that “motorists should be extremely careful and alert whilst driving to avoid possible collisions caused by bad drivers, drunk drivers, and poor weather (harmattan fog). It is important that you don’t make assumptions about the other drivers’ intentions.”

On over speed he said motorists should keep to the recommended speed limit on the express road and highways. “The speed limit for private cars on the express road is 100km/hr and 80km/hr on the highway. The speed limit should be strictly adhered to because over-speeding is the number one cause of deadly accidents for road users.”

He spoke further, “Fatigue Drowsy driving is suspected to be the primary cause in more than 20% of road fatalities. Drivers are advised to have someone else in the car who can take over the wheels when feeling drowsy or park in a safe place (like an eatery or petrol station) to get some rest.

“Avoid the use of Alcohol, any form of alcohol is forbidden while driving as it can impair one’s judgement on the road. Also avoid Distracted Driving. Distracted driving is any activity that diverts attention from driving, including talking or texting on your phone, eating, drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system anything that takes your attention away from the task of driving.

“Texting is the most dangerous distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. You cannot drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.

“Ensure your Car Documents are up to date Federal Road Safety Officials perform routine checks on the highways to ensure road users drive safely.

Road users should ensure that their documents are all updated. These are the documents and items FRSC officials are authorized to check.

Valid Driver’s License Valid Vehicle License, Car Insurance and Roadworthiness certificate Spare Tyre, Fire Extinguisher, Caution Sign and Wheel Spanner

However, if you feel harassed by the Road Safety Official, call The Road Safety toll free line 122 or send an email to info@frsc.gov.ng