Rainy Season: FRSC Chief Warns Against Speeding, Faulty Vehicles

The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has called on motorists to strictly observe safety precautions while travelling from one destination to another, especially as the rainy season intensifies.
According to the Deputy Corps Commander and Corps Public Education Officer at the Federal Road Safety Corps Headquarters, Abuja, Osondu Ohaeri, the Corps Marshal made the call in response to forecasts of heavy rainfall expected as the season progresses.
In a safety advisory, the Corps Marshal explained that driving during rainfall poses significant risks due to reduced visibility, slippery road surfaces, and other hazardous conditions.
He therefore urged motorists to exercise maximum caution while driving to ensure they arrive at their destinations safely.
He advised drivers to carry out essential safety checks before embarking on any journey during the rainy season. These include ensuring that the windows and windshields are clean, both inside and outside, to enhance visibility. Motorists should also routinely inspect their headlights, brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals to confirm they are functioning properly.
The Corps Marshal further stressed the importance of ensuring that windshield wipers and wiper blades are in good working condition, as they are critical for maintaining clear visibility during rainfall. He also advised motorists to switch on their headlights whenever it starts raining, regardless of whether it is daytime or nighttime, to improve visibility for both themselves and other road users.
In addition, drivers were urged to reduce their speed and adopt what he described as the “common sense speed limit,” bearing in mind that wet road surfaces significantly reduce tyre grip and increase stopping distances. He cautioned against speeding, sudden braking, and abrupt lane changes, all of which heighten the risk of road traffic crashes during rainy conditions.
The Corps Marshal also emphasised the importance of maintaining tyres in good condition. He noted that tyres are among the most critical safety components of any vehicle, as they are the only parts that maintain direct contact with the road surface.
“Adequate tyre tread depth, proper inflation, and good traction are therefore essential for maintaining vehicle stability, effective braking, and overall control, particularly on wet and slippery roads” he said..
To reinforce these safety measures, the Corps Marshal directed Commanding Officers across the country to intensify traffic-calming operations, strengthen public enlightenment campaigns, and improve vehicle inspections, with particular attention to the condition of windshield wipers and other critical safety components throughout the rainy season.
He urged all road users to comply with traffic regulations and adopt responsible driving habits, reiterating the Corps’ enduring safety message: “Drive to Stay Alive.”