LASTMA urges Lagos drivers to prioritise children’s safety as schools reopen

Education, News

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has urged motorists to exercise greater caution around pedestrian crossings and roadsides as schools resume across Lagos State.

In a school resumption safety advisory issued on Monday, the traffic management agency called on drivers to slow down and be prepared to stop whenever they approach pedestrian crossings or encounter children and other pedestrians waiting to cross.

LASTMA specifically advised motorists to observe pedestrian crossing warning signs and reduce their speed immediately when approaching zebra crossings.

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The agency also urged drivers to give way and come to a complete stop once a pedestrian steps onto the marked crossing, stressing that pedestrians have priority and should be allowed to cross safely.

The statement, titled “School Resumption Advisory,” reads in part:

“Dear Motorists: This is the school resumption period, and our children will be making massive use of roadsides, including zebra crossings.

“Please obey these rules to save lives:

“1. Slow down and be prepared to stop when approaching a pedestrian crossing or when pedestrians are waiting to cross.

“2. Give way and come to a complete stop once a pedestrian steps onto the white stripes. Allow them to cross safely.

“Remember, a few seconds of patience can save a life. LASTMA cares!”

LASTMA said the advisory was intended to promote safer interaction between motorists and pedestrians during the school resumption period, when children are expected to have increased exposure to roads and pedestrian crossings.

The agency urged motorists to exercise patience and comply with traffic rules, particularly around schools, residential areas and designated pedestrian crossings.

LASTMA, established in July 2000, is responsible for traffic management, regulation and control across Lagos State.