(FRSC. Photo by Punch News)
The Federal Road Safety Corps has advised motorists to adopt stricter vehicle safety checks and defensive driving practices as the rainy season sets in across parts of the country.
The Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday in Abuja, describing the rainy season as a period that demands heightened caution from all road users.
Ohaeri urged vehicle owners to prioritise routine pre-trip inspections to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before setting out.
He emphasised that tyres remain a critical safety component, warning that any defect could compromise vehicle stability and endanger passengers.
Beyond tyres, he advised motorists to also pay attention to brakes, headlamps, rear lights, and windscreen wipers particularly during night travel and rainfall.
“Poor visibility and wet road surfaces significantly increase the risk of crashes during the rainy season, making safety checks and driver alertness essential,” he said.
The FRSC spokesperson further urged motorists to maintain strict road discipline and apply defensive driving techniques, especially at bends, junctions, and busy corridors.
He stressed that safety is a shared responsibility and that distractions and negligence often lead to avoidable crashes.
“This period, safety consciousness and absolute concentration are very important before you even leave your home.
Proper vehicle maintenance and responsible driving behaviour remain key to ensuring safe journeys throughout the rainy season and beyond,” he said.
Defensive driving refers to a style of driving that prioritises staying alert and taking proactive steps to avoid accidents even when other drivers make errors or road conditions are unfavourable.
Rather than simply obeying traffic rules, defensive drivers actively anticipate potential hazards and prepare accordingly.