Consequences of disobeying traffic rules and regulations in Nigeria
Over the years, it has been observed that most drivers do not obey the traffic rules and regulations in Nigeria. Most Nigerian drivers are impatient and don’t pay attention to the road signs. However, it is important to understand that traffic regulations and safety rules are there to protect motorists and also people walking and crossing the roads. Below are some of the consequences of not obeying traffic rules and road signs in Nigeria.
Traffic regulations are the rules put in place to control the movement of vehicles and pedestrians on the road to prevent accidents from happening. Some of these regulations are displayed as road signs on the road to guide the road users.
Road safety rules
Here are some of the basic and important safety rules that all drivers should always obey:
- Drivers must keep to the left and allow the other vehicle coming in the opposite direction to pass.
- Drivers must always slow down at turnings or bends.
- A motorist should move slowly and with care when there is congestion on a road.
- A motorist should always maintain and remain within the set speed limit for the road he/she is traveling on especially within hospital and school areas.
- Drivers should maintain the appropriate distance between the vehicle and the one in front.
- Motorists must understand and follow road signs.
- Drivers must know and obey traffic lights
- Motorists should not drink while driving.
- Motorists should not receive or make calls while driving.
- Always use your seat belt.
- Do not overtake a vehicle on the right-side of the road.
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What are the consequences of disobeying traffic rules and regulations?
Road accidents
The first serious consequence of disobeying traffic rules and regulations are the chances of a road accident, which, in the best case scenario, leads to damage of vehicles with or without injury to people involved. Depending on the fatality of the accident, injuries can be minor or serious and sometimes even can lead to a loss of body parts. The worst result, of course, is death.
Arrest and punishment
If you are caught by the road officials breaking traffic rules and regulations, you will be stopped. Depending on the offence you will be either fined or charged and will have to serve a jail term and probably pay a fine also. There are different punishments for disobeying traffic rules and regulations in Nigeria. These punishments have been laid out in the Constitution or by the Road Safety Commissions.
Traffic hold-ups
Besides poor road condition and overpopulation, another reason for traffic hold-ups are motorists who disobey traffic rules and regulations. The traffic rules and regulations are there for movement to be smooth on the roads. But when people disobey them, it can lead to traffic hold-ups among others.
These are the main consequences of disobeying traffic rules and regulations. Please always obey the traffic rules and regulations and always take note of road signs. This is for your own safety and the safety of other motorists and pedestrians around you.
READ ALSO: 10 amazing tips to avert motorcycle accident on Nigeria's roads
Source: Legit.ng
