Using Towels As Windshield Wipers Dangerous, FRSC Warns Motorists
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has issued a public safety advisory urging drivers across the country to exercise caution while navigating the roads during the rainy season.
The Corps Marshal stressed that driving in the rain presents risks due to reduced visibility and slippery road conditions.
He urged motorists to adopt precautionary measures to avoid accidents and ensure safe arrival at their destinations.
The advisory is contained in a statement signed on Saturday by Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal, Olusegun Ogungbemid.
Mohammed also highlighted the importance of proper vehicle maintenance, particularly during this season.
He advised that before setting out on any journey, drivers must confirm that their vehicle’s windows and windshields are clean both inside and out. He noted that another important thing, is the need to regularly inspect headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights to ensure they are functioning properly.
He specifically cautioned against the use of towels or other improvised materials in place of functioning windshield wipers.
“This practice is unacceptable and dangerous,” the Corps Marshal stated, and insisted that all vehicles must have fully operational wipers and blades to cope with rain-induced conditions.
Mohammed further advised motorists to keep their vehicle lights on at all times, day or night, whenever it begins to rain.
He stressed the need to reduce speed during rainfall and adopt what he referred to as the “common sense speed limit,” particularly as wet roads can significantly compromise tire traction.
“Tyres are one of the most critical components of a vehicle, being the only part in contact with the road surface. Their condition must never be compromised,” he added.
The Corps Marshal has directed Commanding Officers nationwide to prioritise traffic calming, increased public education, and strict enforcement on the condition of wipers and tyres.
He also urged drivers who are unable to safely operate their vehicles under special weather conditions to refrain from driving, for their own safety and that of other road users.
The Federal Road Safety Corps said it remained committed to reducing road crashes during the rainy season through proactive measures, public engagement, and effective enforcement.
Using Towels As Windshield Wipers Dangerous, FRSC Warns Motorists is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
