Causes of road accidents Accidents are unexpected, undesired and unplanned occurrence that results to injury, death or destruction of properties. Causes of accidents are grouped into three: Mechanical factors Environmental factors Human factors

Mechanical factors Caused by poor or irregular maintenance of vehicles. Examples of mechanical factors are: Electrical faults Faulty steering mechanism Tyre burst Brake failure Malfunctioning of the engine etc

Environmental factors This is neither caused by the driver nor by poor maintenance. Examples of environmental factors are: Slippery road caused by oil spill Potholes on the road Absence or improper placing of road signs or markings Poor visibility caused by harmattan haze early morning fog or poor lighting at night

human factors This is caused as a result of human carelessness when using the road. Examples of human factors are: Over speeding Lack of concentration Tiredness Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs Dangerous over speeding Overtaking at sharp bends Playing while using the road

Safety guidelines for pedestrians A pedestrian is someone who is walking on foot on the road used by automobiles. The following safety guidelines should be observed by a pedestrian: Use the pavements or suitable footpath provided Walk on the left side of the road facing an on-coming traffic where footpath is not provided Wear bright colored or reflective clothing while walking in the night Use pedestrian crossing, obey traffic lights, use zebra crossing, subway, footbridge etc

Safety guidelines for pedestrians While crossing, stop, look, listen before you cross . When the road is clear, walk directly and quickly across, looking up properly. Do not run, rather walk briskly to avoid being tipped. At night, cross the road near well lit areas so as to be seen. When in difficulty, use the services of the traffic wardens, police road marshals or any body with the ability to assist you cross the road

Safety guidelines for cyclists A cyclist is a person who rides a bicycle. A cyclist must obey the following guidelines: He must know how to ride the bicycle There must be functional bell and brakes in the bicycle He must consider other road users like the motorist, pedestrians etc He must keep to the right side of the road. He must use the bell to alert other road users that he is either behind or in front of them. He must not over speed He must use head and backlights at night. He must not overload the bicycle He must wear protective head wears

Safety guidelines for motor cyclists A motor cyclist is a person who rides a two or three wheeled vehicle such as motor cycle and tri cycle(keke). A motor cyclist must obey the following guidelines: Make sure that the motor cycle is in a good working condition. Wear smart, bright colored clothing especially at night. Always wear safety helmet to protect the head, thick gloves and riding boot while riding a motor cycle.

Safety guidelines for motor cyclists Do not weave or meander along the road or move between vehicles. Obey the traffic rules and regulations Make use of the side mirrors properly while riding or turning Do not carry more than the specified passenger(s) and never overload the motorcycle with loads Obey the allowable maximum speed at all time. Avoid riding motorcycle too close or in-between vehicles. Keep safe distance from moving vehicles.

Safety guidelines for motorists A motorist is someone who drives a vehicle. A motorist must obey the following safety guidelines: He must obey all traffic regulations and road signals at all times He must always carry in his vehicles gadgets like warning triangle(C-caution), fire extinguisher, spare tyre, jack, wheel spanner etc He must always fasten his sit belt while driving. He must ensure proper vehicle maintenance He must make use of side mirrors and trafficators. He must obey the allowable maximum speed limit

Safety guidelines for motorists He must not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The vehicle should not be overloaded. He should not use cell phones while driving. Minors under the age of 18 should not be allowed to drive. Dangerous overtaking should be avoided especially at sharp bends, corners, hilltops etc.

Road signs and their meanings ROUND ABOUT DANGEROUS BEND SERIES OF DANGEROUS DANGEROUS CORNER APPROACHING HILL AHEAD AHEAD AHEAD AHEAD MERGING TRAFFIC NARROW ROAD AHEAD NARROW BRIDGE PEDESTRIAN CROSSING SCHOOL CHILDREN CROSSING PEDESTRIAN PROHIBITED U-TURN AHEAD U-TURN PROHIBITED