A truck carrying beer crashed into a dispatch rider and two vehicles at Abalti Barracks, inward Ojuelegba, Lagos, on Tuesday, causing bottles of beer to spill onto the road. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) intervened to stop commuters from drinking the spilled beer. According to LASTMA Public Relations Officer, Adebayo Taofeeq, the truck driver was traveling at high speed when he attempted to avoid hitting a vehicle ahead of him but failed to apply his brakes in time.
The vehicles involved in the crash were identified as a Lexus Jeep with registration number LXR 960JS, a Hyundai Jeep with registration number KTU 12JS, and a dispatch motorcycle with registration number AAA 151QT. The dispatch rider was seriously injured in the crash and was rescued by LASTMA personnel before being taken for medical attention. LASTMA officials worked with the police to manage the accident scene and prevent further traffic disruption.
The accident took an unusual turn after several bottles of beer being conveyed by the truck fell onto the roadway. Members of the public immediately began picking up the unbroken bottles and drinking the beer. LASTMA officials intervened when they arrived at the scene, stopping people from engaging in the activity. Despite the intervention, the scene attracted members of the public, with some commuters reportedly stopping on their way to work to drink the spilled beer.
Some people were seen carrying plastic bottles to collect the beer for takeaway, turning the accident scene into what appeared to be an impromptu “free bar.” The development sparked mixed reactions among members of the public, with some sympathizing with the beer company over the loss of its products and condemning people taking advantage of the accident, while others made jokes about the unusual situation.
Taofeeq said LASTMA moved quickly to clear the accident scene and prevent further disruption. He emphasized the importance of avoiding reckless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol, as part of LASTMA’s Ember Months road-safety campaign. The campaign, which commenced on September 1, aims to promote road safety during the period of increased movement and festivities.
LASTMA has introduced a free emergency hotline, 3367, for members of the public to report reckless driving, accidents, and other incidents requiring the agency’s intervention. Taofeeq urged motorists and other road users to drive responsibly and cooperate with traffic officials throughout the Ember Months period. He also appealed to members of the public to avoid reckless driving and not to drink and drive.
In a statement posted on its official X account, LASTMA confirmed that the crash involved a Fuso truck loaded with beer, a Lexus Jeep, a Hyundai Jeep, and an Okada. The agency said its personnel were deployed to manage the situation, while policemen were also present at the scene. Officials of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority were clearing broken bottles from the roadway, and motorists were urged to exercise caution while passing through the area.
Key points
- LASTMA intervened to stop commuters from drinking spilled beer after a truck crash in Lagos.
- The accident involved a Fuso truck loaded with beer, a Lexus Jeep, a Hyundai Jeep, and an Okada, causing traffic disruption.
- LASTMA has introduced a free emergency hotline, 3367, for reporting reckless driving and accidents.
