Rainy season: TRACE warns motorists against driving through flooded roads

n n

The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps has advised motorists to avoid driving through flooded roads and adopt safe driving practices to reduce road crashes during the rainy season.

n

The agency gave the advice in a statement issued on Friday by its Public Relations Officer, Babatunde Akinbiyi, while unveiling its Rainy Season Safe Motoring Guide themed, “Safe and Responsible Driving… A MUST!”

n

Akinbiyi said the rainy season is often characterised by reduced visibility, slippery roads and longer stopping distances, making it necessary for motorists to exercise extra caution.

n

“Stay Alert. Slow Down. Arrive Safely. By adopting safe driving practices and ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy, every journey can be completed safely,” he said.

n

He urged drivers to ensure they are mentally, physically and emotionally fit before embarking on any journey and to inspect their vehicles to confirm that brakes, lights, tyres, batteries, windscreen wipers and other critical components are in good condition.

n

He also advised motorists to reduce speed on wet roads, switch on their headlights during rainfall and maintain a safe following distance of between four and six seconds.

n

“Wet roads reduce grip and increase stopping distance. Motorists should adjust their speed to suit prevailing weather conditions,” he said.

n

Akinbiyi warned motorists against driving through flooded roads, noting that floodwaters could be deceptive and sweep vehicles away.

n

“Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads. The depth may be difficult to judge and could endanger lives and property,” he stated.

n

He further urged motorists to obey traffic regulations and comply with directives from TRACE officers, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to safer roads across Ogun State during the rainy season.

n

The corps advised road users to call its emergency lines, 112 or 0806 270 3568, in the event of emergencies.

n

NAN

n n