Motorists urged to adopt defensive driving to curb road deaths

In Nigeria, the persistent spate of fatal road accidents has prompted road safety experts to strongly advocate for the adoption of defensive driving techniques among motorists. Ozoya Izegaegbe, a prominent road safety expert, emphasized in a recent interview that a nationwide shift towards this proactive approach could significantly reduce road deaths, even in the face of persistent challenges like weak enforcement and inadequate infrastructure.

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Speed remains a major contributor to the severity of highway crashes in Nigeria. At speeds above approved limits, drivers have less time to detect hazards and longer stopping distances, making collisions with stationary vehicles or pedestrians far more likely and deadly.

Defensive driving, as explained by Izegaegbe, is not merely about following traffic rules but about anticipating and reacting to potential dangers on the road. This includes maintaining safe following distances, moderating speed, especially at night, and remaining constantly vigilant for unexpected obstacles or the mistakes of other drivers. He stressed that on Nigerian roads, drivers cannot afford to assume the path ahead is clear; they must always be prepared for the unexpected, whether it's a broken-down vehicle, a stalled car, or another driver's error.

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On Nigerian roads, drivers cannot assume the road ahead is clear. Defensive driving means always expecting the unexpected — whether it’s a broken-down truck, a stalled vehicle, or another driver’s mistake.

Instilling a culture of defensive driving, particularly among commercial bus drivers known for their sometimes aggressive driving habits in cities like Lagos, presents a challenge. However, Izegaegbe believes it is achievable through patience and persistent effort. He highlighted the importance of engaging drivers respectfully, visiting bus parks and garages to sensitize them in their local languages, and understanding the specific issues they face, especially where enforcement is lax. Passengers also play a role by respectfully engaging drivers on safety practices.

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Every driver ensuring they do the right thing makes the roads safer. In the past, our elders taught us road signs, markings, and the principles of proper driving — that’s how I learnt defensive driving.

To institutionalize this crucial practice, Izegaegbe called upon the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to make defensive driving training a mandatory, long-term requirement for obtaining a driver's license. He further suggested that refresher courses every six months would help reinforce these principles. The expert also proposed a return to older methods where drivers involved in accidents or violations received educational materials before their licenses were returned, aiming to foster a more responsible driving community.

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For commercial bus drivers, it’s difficult but possible to instil defensive driving. Over time, we lost the culture, and correcting it will take patience.