The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has cautioned drivers against speeding and overloading.

The corps specially advised commercial drivers who are always on the road to be extra careful and respect traffic rules.

FRSC issued the caution on Thursday in Ilorin during a sensitisation talk on “Speed Thrills but Kills, Drive Responsibly and Avoid Overloading” at Maraba Motor Park.

The programme is an annual event aimed at educating drivers and engaging them on how to use the road to prevent accidents from occurring.

The zonal commander of FRSC, ACM Hyginus Omeje, said that speed violation was one of the major causes of accidents, explaining that there should be a 30-meter distance between vehicles on the road.

The zonal commander, represented by Sadiq Ibrahim, zonal head of operations, said that the recommended distance between vehicles in motion was to prevent accidents from happening in case of a sudden application of brakes.

He advised motorists to always have an assistant driver while travelling, especially commercial drivers who travel long distances daily, as it would be of great importance in case of an emergency.

“When a driver sits and drives for a long time, it can result in fatigue, tiredness, and cramps, whereby the driver will not be able to have full control over his vehicle.

“There is a need for rest during driving, especially for long distances, to be able to rest and be strong enough to control the vehicle,” he said.

The zonal commander urged drivers to know their route and the condition of the road before embarking on any journey in order to know how to manoeuvre their way to prevent accidents.

Different associations of commercial drivers appreciated the programme and promised to continue reminding their members about the use of the road and preventive measures.

The Kwara sector commander of FRSC, Corps Commander Fredrick Ogidan, also warned drivers against overloading and speeding to avoid accidents.

“Most of the time, when accidents occur, the loads in the vehicle usually contribute to the cause of the accident and even make it difficult to rescue accident victims.

“We understand that many people travel during the ember months, but there is a need to know the limitations of what a vehicle can carry, while other loads should be sent and delivered later,” he said.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, represented by the commissioner for special duties, John Olanrewaju, urged drivers to cooperate with FRSC personnel and drive safely.

He advised drivers to reduce their speed and be conscious of their driving, keeping in mind their families at home, who are always looking forward to their return.

Many drivers and their unions graced the occasion, including members of the Association of Independent Transporters (AIT), the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), as well as the Nigeria Police Force and NYSC corps members.

(NAN)