In the most recent World Health Organisation (WHO) data published in 2018, road traffic accident deaths in Nigeria reached 40,061 or 2.07% of total deaths. The age-adjusted death rate is 29.50 per 100,000 of population — Nigeria is ranked #41 in the world.
Between January & November 2019, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) recorded 5,527 road accidents across Nigeria. A total number of 4,163 persons lost their lives to accidents within the period.
This implies that in a day, an average of 13 people died from road mishaps in the first 11 months of 2019.
Furthermore, FRSC stated that road accidents involved 59,724 people and 14,425 vehicles last year. Injured persons halved the number of those involved while the other half escaped unhurt.
WHO, in its 2018 Global Status Report on road safety, shows that there one out of every four road accidents that occured in Africa emanated from Nigeria.
Records over the years have shown that there is a paltry 52% survival rate in Nigerian road accidents. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), 5,053 Nigerians died out of the 11,363 road collisions recorded in 2016.
Now, what do we make out of these statistics and what can you do?
It is simple: Be extra cautious when driving on Nigerian roads. In developing countries like Nigeria, bad condition of roads contributes to accidents but speeding also kills on good roads.
While we identify that the quality of infrastructure is a factor, there are also driver and vehicle factors too. Combination of these factors can as well cause accidents.
A 2012 research by Eze Bun of NAUTH submits that driver factors solely contribute to about 57% of road accidents. However, 93% either alone or in combination with other factors.
Before embarking on your next journey, play your part in reducing the rate of accident on Nigerian roads.
Most importantly, insure your vehicle against accident. Also, consider Personal Accident cover as it protects against all injuries resulting from an accident.
Let’s discuss the best motor insurance customized for you. Send a mail to brand@cornerstone.com.ng or call 01-2806500.