A generated image of a fatal crash, as 13 persons are reportedly burtn to death in Ondo State.

As the Christmas season approaches, the night journey risk grows, with road crashes becoming more frequent. One recent incident in Yobe State serves as a stark reminder of the dangers. Twelve people died in a horrific crash on the Bayamari-Geidam road on Tuesday. The victims included 10 male adults, one female adult, and one child.

According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the crash occurred at 10:00 PM near Chelluri village. A stationary Howo truck, belonging to Dan Nene Construction Company, was obstructing the road. A Sharon mini-bus collided with the truck, leading to a fire that burned all 12 passengers beyond recognition.

FRSC Sector Commander, Livinus Yilzoom, confirmed that road obstruction by the truck was the immediate cause of the crash. However, the Sharon bus driver’s excessive speed and overloading were identified as contributing factors.

Yilzoom warned that the crash occurred during a night journey, emphasizing the hazards of traveling at night, especially in hazardous weather conditions. The hazy harmattan weather, coupled with poor visibility, creates significant risks for drivers on the road.

Dangers of night journey: Experts weigh in

Transport experts and road safety officials continue to raise concerns about the rising number of road accidents linked to night journeys. Road Marshals and safety advocates stress that night driving is inherently more dangerous due to limited visibility and driver fatigue.

“Driving at night requires heightened attention,” says Comrade Felix Obinna, a road safety expert. “Many drivers are less alert at night, and visibility is compromised. This combination can lead to fatal accidents.” He also highlights that accidents like the one in Yobe often occur when drivers push themselves to travel long distances after dark.

Recent accidents involving night journeys further highlight these concerns. Just last month, a tragic crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway involved a tanker truck and a commercial bus. Ten people were also killed in Jigawa, while three died in Akwa Ibom. The collision occurred at night when the bus driver failed to see the stationary tanker in time. The accident claimed 10 lives and left several others critically injured.

Road safety recommendations

Experts continue to emphasize the need for alertness and precaution during night travel. FRSC officials and transport experts have called for several safety measures to reduce night driving accidents, especially as the Christmas holiday season approaches. They caution thus:

  1. Avoid night journeys when possible: If you can, avoid traveling at night. The risk of accidents increases significantly after dark.
  2. Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy: Make sure your vehicle’s headlights, brakes, and tires are in good condition.
  3. Drive within speed limits: Avoid the temptation to drive fast at night. Reduced visibility requires lower speeds for safer driving.
  4. Rest before driving: Fatigue plays a major role in road accidents, especially during night journeys. Ensure you are well-rested before embarking on long trips.
  5. Keep your distance: Increase the distance between your vehicle and others, particularly at night, when it’s harder to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions.

According to the experts, as the festive season draws near, the risk of road accidents rises, particularly during night journeys. “With increased travel across the country, it is crucial that motorists adhere to road safety rules and exercise extreme caution,” Ita Benson, a senior safety officer.  The FRSC and other road safety agencies have also called for increased vigilance during the holidays.

“Motorists need to understand the dangers of night journeys, especially during harmattan. Poor visibility, road congestion, and driver fatigue make the roads even more dangerous,” said Comrade Yilzoom.

By Usoh Udosen

Usoh Udosen is our General Assignment Reporter, with bias for the evolving world of Technology. He covers a wide range of topics, bringing depth and clarity to complex issues. With a commitment to journalistic integrity, Usoh connects with audiences through compelling narratives and informative reporting. His diverse experience and adaptability, spanning seven years, make him a valuable asset to our team.

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