The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ondo State Sector Command, has called on motorists to always check their health status before embarking on any journey to avoid crashes on highways in the state.

The state Sector Commander, FRSC, Dr Samuel Ibitoye, made the call at a free medical outreach organised by the command on Thursday for the National Union of Road Transport (NURTW) workers in Ilesha Garage, Akure.

Mr Ibitoye, who said the free medical outreach coincided with the Easter season, explained that if drivers managed their health status properly, they would move from one point to another without any issues.

The sector commander said the outreach was brought to motor parks, union members, and drivers to assess their health status and stay healthy.

“Our goal is to reduce fatalities and minimise the number of crashes on our roads. A healthy driver can convey passengers safely because an unhealthy driver is a corpse in waiting.

“If a driver has a health issue and is involved in a crash, especially at high speeds, it can lead to fatal consequences for both the driver and passengers.

“So, we check their blood pressure, temperature, and blood sugar levels because high blood sugar can lead to unconsciousness, which is extremely dangerous for someone behind the wheel,” he said.

Mr Ibitoye also attributed the crash, which occurred near the programme to loss of consciousness, and said it could be linked to the driver’s health condition.

He, therefore, called on drivers with health concerns to seek treatment before returning to the road, saying it would enhance road safety by reducing the likelihood of crashes and fatalities.

The sector commander, who spoke about preparations for the Easter celebrations, said 1,000 operatives had been deployed to conduct advocacy, enforcement, and rescue operations.

“Our operatives will be on duty round the clock, and our offices will operate 24 hours daily. In case of any emergency or crash, the public can call 122 for immediate response and rescue,” he said.

Also, the state Vice Chairman, NURTW, Adeniyi Oyedepo, commended FRSC for the initiative, saying the gesture should not be limited to the state capital, but taken to other towns.

“This is first of it kind from the FRSC, but I will advise drivers to always check their health status regularly and follow the rules and regulations of the roads,” he said. 

(NAN)