Main Causes of Road Accidents in Nigeria

An accident is an occurrence that happens without prior notice. A road accident is an unforeseen event that happens due to vehicle operation.  An accident can be dangerous, leading to the loss of lives and property. There is always a cause for an accident. Many factors are attributed to various accidents we see or hear of today. Sound Education on the causes of road traffic accidents equips us with the necessary tools to avoid them and eventually bring safety to our roads.

Three factors account for the major Causes of Road Accidents in Nigeria.

They are Human factors, mechanical factors, and environmental factors. Of the 3 factors, the Human factor contributes over 75% of the road traffic accidents in Nigeria.

Causes of Road Accidents in Nigeria: THE HUMAN FACTORS

This, as stated earlier contributes to over 75% of the causes of road traffic accidents. The major categories of the human factor are the drivers, the passengers, the road traffic officials, and the mechanic. A lot of drivers on our roads today in Nigeria are very disrespectful, careless, nonchalant, and show little or no concern for human life. This has brought about deaths and injuries on our roads.

The following are common human factor mistakes:

• Lack of regard for the traffic signs on the roads by drivers.
• Poor driver training.
• Careless driving habits especially among young people.
• Lack of experience and efficiency on the part of the drivers.
• Over acceleration and disregard for speed signs on the road.
• Drunk driving, especially under the influence of alcohol or even the use of hard drugs.
• Disrespect for fellow road users.
• Lack of patience while driving.
• Overloading of vehicles.
• Careless overtaking of other vehicles.
• Driving when fatigued or tired.
• Driving with a poor vision of the highways.
• Distractions while driving such as banners on the roads, music, and radio players in the vehicle.

Causes of Road Accidents in Nigeria: THE MECHANICAL FACTORS

Vehicle is one of the major causes of road traffic accidents. There is more to road safety than just regular check-ups and vehicle maintenance. It should be a day-to-day care and check-up of vehicles parts. The major vehicular factors are tire problems, and brakes which usually occur as a result of poor vehicle maintenance.

The transport industry has been gravely affected by the recession in the country and has brought about the sales of substandard and poor-quality parts of vehicles. Most people now resort to buying them. This, along with reckless driving and over-speeding has led to ghastly motor accidents.

The following are categories of mechanical factors that lead to accidents:

• Brake failure while driving.
• Burst Tyres.
• Vehicle engine Malfunction.
• Use of substandard and fake car parts.
• Defective lights.
• Lack of vehicle maintenance.

In essence, a poorly serviced vehicle, a vehicle without adequate maintenance can lead to accidents on the highways.

Causes of Road Accidents in Nigeria: THE ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

There has been a debate on whether road accidents in the country can be attributed to bad roads. Because, in spite of the construction of new roads in some areas, the accidents don’t seem to be reducing. The following are common environmental factors that cause accidents on our roads;

• Poor road network.
• Weather conditions.
• The deadly road bends.
• Uncontrolled stray animals.
• Blockage on the roads.

Reference: www.researchgate.net