The Federal Road Safety Corps in Ondo State has advised motorists to ascertain their health condition before embarking on any journey, warning that poor health could contribute to road crashes.
The Sector Commander, Dr Samuel Ibitoye, gave the advice on Thursday during a free medical outreach organised by the command for members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers at Ilesha Garage in Akure.
Ibitoye said the initiative, held in anticipation of the Easter festivities, was designed to evaluate drivers’ health and promote safer road usage across the state.
He noted that maintaining good health was essential for drivers, stressing that unfit motorists posed a significant risk to themselves and passengers.
According to him, “Our objective is to reduce road crashes and fatalities.
A driver in good health is better positioned to transport passengers safely, while an unhealthy driver poses a serious danger.
“Health conditions such as high blood sugar can lead to loss of consciousness, which is extremely risky for anyone behind the wheel. That is why we conduct checks on blood pressure, temperature, and sugar levels.”
The FRSC boss linked a recent crash near the venue of the programme to possible loss of consciousness by the driver, attributing such incidents to underlying health challenges.
He urged motorists with medical issues to seek proper treatment before returning to the road, emphasising that such precautionary measures would help curb accidents and save lives.
On preparations for the Easter period, Ibitoye disclosed that about 1,000 personnel had been deployed across the state for surveillance, enforcement, and emergency response.
He added that officers would operate round the clock, while emergency lines, including 122, had been activated for prompt rescue services.
In his remarks, the Ondo State Vice Chairman of the NURTW, Adeniyi Oyedapo, commended the FRSC for the initiative, describing it as commendable and timely.
Oyedapo, however, urged the corps to extend similar medical outreach programmes to other parts of the state, while advising drivers to prioritise regular health checks and adhere strictly to traffic regulations.