The Federal Road Safety Corps, Ondo State Command, has called on motorists to be patient and adhere to defensive driving techniques, as the rainy season approaches to avoid crashes on highways.

The FRSC State Sector Commander, Dr Samuel Ibitoye, made the call while speaking on Sunday in Akure.

Mr Ibitoye said that it was necessary for motorists to fix the components of their vehicles. According to him, the rainy season is gradually expected, so it will be good for all drivers to be prepared for it.

He said, “Rainy season is a special season where all the drivers are supposed to get their wipers, headlamps, air conditioners, tyres and other vehicle’s components in perfect condition. Moreover, when you see that there is heavy downpour, it is better you park at a very safe place than to say let me continue the trip. And when you see a vehicle coming during the rain, please put on your headlamps, let others see you as much as they can see others. So, we want to also appeal to them (drivers) that they should adhere to principles of defensive driving technique during this season. “And they (motorists) should please be patient every time, they should not speed more than necessary because patience, as I use to say, is the key to save lives.’’

Mr Ibitoye also vowed to sanction traffic offenders, and appealed to transport unions and other stakeholders to support the corps to ensure safe roads for Nigerians.

He stated, “Sincerely, our major concern is for Nigerians to parade very healthy vehicles that can take them from one point to the other safely without causing any hazard or any problem on the road. It will ensure we can have our human resources intact that can help us live very healthy and fulfilled lives as a nation.’’

He, therefore, called on passengers to always speak up against reckless and dangerous drivers, and not to leave their lives in the hands of a single person.

“Remember that crashes kill more passengers than drivers. If you observe that your driver is driving dangerously, please, without distracting him, politely tell him to drive safely or report him at any FRSC, police or military checkpoints for caution,” Mr Ibitoye said. 

(NAN)