As a driver, you can only control the decisions you make on the road. Unfortunately, you can’t control what other drivers do. For this reason, you could be involved in an accident even when you’re fully concentrated, paying attention and following traffic rules.
One of the primary concerns of other drivers should be reckless driving, as it has over time become a challenge to road users and a lead cause of road crashes. Reckless driving could result from unruly behaviour, intoxication, excessive lane changing, over speeding, poor vehicle maintenance, among others, which often lead to accidents.
Due to its extensive nature, driving recklessly is a traffic offence. This is because a reckless driver disregards the safety of people and properties while driving.
In Nigeria, reckless driving is considered an offence, it varies from over-speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, disobeying traffic laws, tailgating, using a phone while driving, failure to regard road signs and so on.
How do we reduce reckless driving in Nigeria?
* Extra tax payment: Fines is one of the consequences of reckless driving. Unfortunately, one time fine doesn’t seem to deter reckless drivers from the act. An introduction of extra taxes for drivers convicted with reckless driving would be a feasible option. If reckless drivers are aware that they would pay extra taxes, they would be more responsible when wielding the steering; it would also scare potential reckless drivers away from the act.
* Tariffs on alcohol sales: The availability of alcohol gives some drivers the chance to misbehave on roads. With less alcohol, there would be lesser drunk drivers. A total ban on alcohol sale might be cruel but an introduction of tariffs and taxes on the sale of alcohol could make it more expensive and less accessible for drivers.
* Orientation: Constant reminder and sensitization of drivers through the media, seminars and campaigns against reckless driving are ways to reduce the menace in Nigeria.
* Speed bumps: Since overspeeding is one of the factors of reckless driving, it is important to build speed bumps on major Nigerian roads. Speed bumps are effective in keeping the speeds of vehicles down and also encourage safe driving.
