Let’s be honest, driving on Nigerian roads is an experience. It’s a mix of exciting journeys and unpredictable challenges. From giant potholes that appear out of nowhere to the bustling, sometimes overwhelming, traffic, it takes a special kind of skill to navigate successfully.
That skill? Defensive Driving.
It's not about being aggressive; it's about being prepared, patient, and smart. Think of it as driving with a shield of awareness. Here are practical tips to help you master the art of driving safely on our unique roads.
1. The Pothole Dance: Mind the Gaps!
Potholes are a defining feature of many Nigerian roads, and hitting one at speed can damage your tyres, rims, and even your car's alignment.
The Defensive Move:
- Look Far Ahead: Don't just look at the bumper of the car in front of you. Train your eyes to scan the road far into the distance. This gives you extra time to spot and safely react to potholes.
- Slow Down: When you enter an area known for bad roads, reduce your speed significantly. If you must drive over a pothole, do it slowly to minimise the impact.
- Don't Swerve Violently: A sudden, wild swerve can cause you to hit another vehicle or lose control. If a pothole appears too late, check your mirrors quickly and brake before the hole. If you can’t avoid it safely, take it gently.
2. Conquering the Hustle: Surviving Heavy Traffic
Heavy traffic, or "go-slow" as we call it, is a daily reality, especially in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. It’s also where many minor accidents happen due to impatience.
The Defensive Move:
- Follow the 3-Second Rule (and make it 4 or 5!): Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. In heavy, stop-start traffic, count "one thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three" after the car in front passes a fixed point (like a street light or sign). If you pass that point before you finish counting, you are too close. This distance gives you room to stop safely and to react to sudden lane changes or hazards.
- Avoid the "Rush-Hour Rage": Impatience is dangerous. Don't engage in risky weaving or tailgating. Remember, getting there safely is more important than getting there a minute sooner. Take a deep breath, put on a calm playlist, and accept the delay.
- The "Yellow Light" Rule: When you approach an intersection and the traffic light turns yellow, prepare to stop. Don't accelerate to "beat the light," as this is a common cause of intersection collisions, especially with drivers who jump the gun on the green light.
3. Nigerian Road Hazards: Expect the Unexpected
Nigerian roads have unique elements that demand constant vigilance.
|
Hazard |
The Challenge |
Defensive Tip |
|
"Urgent" Drivers (Okada/Keke) |
Motorcyclists and tricycles often switch lanes without warning and operate in blind spots. |
Always Check Your Blind Spot! Before turning or changing lanes, physically turn your head (the "lifesaver look") in addition to checking your mirrors. Assume they are there. |
|
Unsignalled Stops/Turns |
Many commercial drivers stop abruptly or turn without using their indicators. |
Anticipate Mistakes. Drive as if you are the only driver who knows the rules. Watch their brake lights, and look at their front tyres to see if they are preparing to turn. |
|
Drivers often use high beams at night, blinding oncoming traffic. |
Do Not Stare into the Light! Look down and slightly to the right side of the road, focusing on the white line marking the edge of your lane. Use that line to guide yourself until the blinding vehicle passes. |
|
|
Pedestrians/Street Vendors |
People often cross highways or sell items right in the middle of traffic. |
Scan the Shoulders and Edges. Be prepared to brake instantly in urban areas. Slow down near bus stops and market zones where pedestrian traffic is heaviest. |
4. Vehicle & Visibility: Your Defensive Toolkit
A great driver knows their car must be in top shape for these conditions.
- Tyre Health is Crucial: Potholes and rough roads put immense pressure on your tyres. Check your pressure and tread depth weekly. A good tyre can be the difference between safely navigating a hazard and being stranded.
- Wipers and Headlights: Rain can reduce visibility to almost zero. Ensure your wipers are working perfectly. Always drive with your headlights on in the rain or at dusk. Seeing and Being Seen is the golden rule of defensive driving.
- The Power of the Horn (Sparingly!): Use your horn not to vent anger, but to warn others of your presence, especially around blind corners, during an overtake, or when approaching a crowded market area. A short, polite beep is enough.
Conclusion: Drive Smart, Live Safe
Defensive driving on Nigerian roads boils down to one simple mindset: Control what you can, and anticipate what you cannot.
Maintain a good distance, keep your cool in traffic, and drive with the assumption that the unexpected will happen. By adopting these practical tips, you are not just becoming a better driver; you are actively contributing to your safety and the safety of everyone around you.
Drive smart, drive defensive, and may your journeys be smooth!”