FRSC Warns Motorists as Night-Time Road Crashes Increase Nationwide

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has raised fresh concerns over the increasing number of night-time road crashes  across Nigerian highways, warning motorists that excessive speed, fatigue, and poor visibility remain major contributors to fatal accidents.

Also Read: FRSC Warns Motorists Against Night Driving as Fatal Crashes Rise

According to the Corps, a significant percentage of deadly crashes recorded in recent weeks occurred between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., a period identified as high-risk due to reduced visibility, driver exhaustion, and lower traffic enforcement presence.

FRSC officials noted that many drivers falsely assume roads are safer at night due to lighter traffic, leading to dangerous speeding and reckless driving.

Common factors linked to night-time crashes include:

• Excessive speed on poorly lit highways
• Driver fatigue and micro-sleep, especially among long-distance drivers
• Poor vehicle lighting and faulty headlamps
• Alcohol and substance use
• Broken-down vehicles without reflective warning signs

The Corps also highlighted the dangers posed by heavy-duty trucks and trailers parked indiscriminately on highways without proper hazard markings.

RoadKing.ng observations show a spike in fatal crashes on major corridors such as the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, Abuja–Lokoja Road, Benin–Ore Highway, and parts of the East–West Road, many of which occurred during late-night or early-morning hours.

Road safety experts warn that crashes at night are often more severe, as higher speeds increase impact force, reducing survival chances for occupants.

The FRSC urged all motorists to adopt safer driving habits, particularly when travelling at night. Key safety recommendations include:

• Reducing speed, regardless of low traffic volume
• Taking regular rest breaks on long journeys
• Ensuring headlights, brake lights, and indicators are fully functional
• Avoiding alcohol or stimulant use while driving
• Using reflective triangles when vehicles break down

Commercial transport operators were also advised to enforce strict journey management policies and avoid overworking drivers.

The Corps said it has intensified night patrols and surveillance across identified crash-prone corridors, especially during festive periods and peak travel seasons.

Officials reiterated that traffic laws apply at all hours and warned that offenders would face sanctions, including arrest and prosecution.

Transport analysts say reducing night-time crashes will require a combination of enforcement, improved road lighting, public education, and responsible driving behaviour.

They stressed that many night-time crashes are preventable, urging motorists to prioritise safety over speed or convenience.