Lagos State has introduced a set of new traffic regulations aimed at improving road safety and managing the growing number of traffic-related offenses. The new laws, effective immediately, bring stricter penalties for various driving violations, with the aim of reducing accidents and ensuring safer roads for all residents.
One of the key changes is the penalty for driving without a driver’s license, which now results in the impoundment of the vehicle. In addition, individuals under the age of 18 caught driving will face a fine of ₦30,000. Other offenses, such as driving with fake number plates, carrying forged vehicle documents, or using a fake driver’s license, now come with fines up to ₦30,000 and, in some cases, prison sentences.
Here is a summary of some of the new traffic offenses and their corresponding penalties:
1. Driving without a driver’s license– Vehicle impoundment.
2. Driving under the age of 18– ₦30,000 fine.
3. Driving with fake number plates – ₦30,000 fine and up to 3 years in prison.
4. Driving with forged vehicle particulars– 6 months in prison.
5. Driving without road worthiness – Vehicle impoundment.
6. Smoking while driving – ₦30,000 fine and vehicle impoundment.
7. Disobeying traffic officers– ₦30,000 fine or vehicle impoundment.
8. Driving without a fastened seatbelt– ₦30,000 fine.
9. Parking on yellow lines – ₦20,000 fine for first offense, ₦30,000 for subsequent offenses.
10. Driving on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lanes– ₦70,000 fine.
The new regulations also target specific behaviors that have been identified as safety concerns. These include fines for driving with worn-out tires, without a spare tire, or with a broken or tinted windscreen, all of which carry a ₦30,000 fine.
Additionally, offenses such as eating or driving with one hand, disobeying traffic lights, or driving the wrong way could lead to prison sentences, with the most serious offenses, like one-way driving, carrying a penalty of up to 3 years in prison.
Despite the general positive reception of the new regulations, there has been some criticism from the public. Several citizens have voiced concerns over the potential for abuse by enforcement officers, calling for clearer definitions and more transparent enforcement. Some have questioned the fairness of certain penalties, particularly the fines for relatively minor offenses such as eating or driving with one hand, while more dangerous behaviors, like driving under the influence, are not specifically addressed in the regulations.
In response to concerns, Lagos State officials have urged drivers to adhere to the new rules, emphasizing that ignorance of the law is not an excuse. The authorities also reassured the public that the new measures are part of an ongoing effort to improve traffic management and reduce accidents on the state’s roads.
As the new traffic laws take effect, the government continues to focus on enhancing public safety and enforcing responsible driving across Lagos State. Drivers are encouraged to stay informed about these changes to avoid fines and ensure their own safety and the safety of others on the roads.
