FRSC caution motorists on hazy weather, poor visibility

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has cautioned motorists nationwide to exercise heightened patience following prevailing hazy weather conditions currently being experienced across several parts of the country.

The FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, gave the advice in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Olusegun Ogungbemide, made available on Monday in Abuja.

Mohammed explained that the current weather condition had resulted in poor visibility and reduced clarity on major highways.

He emphasised that the current dust haze, occasioned largely by seasonal atmospheric conditions, posed significant risks to road users, particularly drivers whose vision may be impaired while driving.

He noted that reduced visibility under such conditions increase the likelihood of road traffic crashes.

The FRSC boss however, emphasised the need for deliberate caution and strict compliance with traffic regulations.

He said that hazy weather conditions and dust significantly reduced visibility and reaction time for drivers adding that, at such speeding becomes even more dangerous.

He therefore appealed to all motorists to slow down, obey speed limits, and drive defensively to avoid preventable crashes.

“In view of the prevailing reduced visibility conditions associated with the dust haze, we advise all motorists to strictly comply with traffic regulations and adopt safe driving practices at all times.

“Drivers are specifically urged to reduce speed and comply with prescribed speed limits, especially on highways affected by hazy conditions.

“Maintain safe following distances to allow adequate reaction time; and ensure that headlights, tail lights, and brake lights are fully functional and used appropriately, even during daytime where visibility is impaired.

“In addition to that, they are to avoid dangerous driving behaviours such as wrongful overtaking, over-speeding, and distracted driving; and ensure windscreens are clean and wipers are functional to enhance visibility,” he said.

The corps marshal also appealed to drivers of commercial vehicles to prioritise passenger safety by avoiding unnecessary speed and ensuring full compliance with road safety regulations.

The FRSC boss reiterated the corps commitment to safeguarding lives on Nigerian roads and assured the public that its patrol teams were on high alert to monitor traffic flow, enforce compliance, and provide prompt assistance where necessary.

“Motorists are encouraged to cooperate with FRSC operatives and report emergencies through the corps’ toll-free emergency numbers, 122,” he added.