LASTMA harps on vehicles maintenance to curb crashes
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has called on truck and commercial drivers to prioritise routine maintenance of their vehicles to prevent traffic crashes during the festive season.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, emphasised that the increased road activities during the Yuletide demanded greater attention to vehicle safety.
He warned that poorly maintained vehicles could lead to avoidable road hazards, causing disruptions and endangering lives.
“The ember month safety campaign started about six or seven weeks ago, and we’ve engaged with various haulage companies, tanker drivers, and truckers on ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy at all times,” Bakare-Oki said.
Highlighting the importance of routine vehicle checks, he
urged drivers to ensure their brakes systems are intact and that other essential maintenance practices are adhered to.
The LASTMA boss also advocated for continuous driver training, discouraging drug use, and emphasising safe driving practices like avoiding speeding and taking rest breaks when fatigued.
“Whenever they feel fatigued, they should take a nap, and not drive. This is very important because the life of every Lagos resident is paramount to Mr. Governor,” he added.
Bakare-Oki noted that the authority has punitive measures in place for drivers who fail to comply with safety regulations, aiming to enforce accountability on the roads.
