The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has issued a warning to children, teenagers, and young adults against using rolling skate shoes, wheeled footwear, and similar devices on public highways. This caution was given by the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, in a statement on Sunday in Lagos. He emphasized that such practices expose users to unnecessary traffic hazards. The warning comes as a response to the increasing use of footwear with concealed or retractable wheels on roads designed for motorized traffic.
According to Bakare-Oki, the use of wheeled recreational devices on public highways constitutes a serious safety concern, particularly when users attempt to glide alongside moving vehicles, cross carriageways indiscriminately, or maneuver through traffic without adequate protective measures and adult supervision. Unlike designated recreational facilities, public highways are dynamic and highly unpredictable environments with the simultaneous movement of vehicles, motorcycles, pedestrians, and other road users.
The introduction of wheeled recreational devices into such spaces can significantly diminish a user’s ability to respond appropriately to sudden vehicular movements, creating circumstances that may culminate in devastating collisions and life-altering injuries. LASTMA strongly advises parents, guardians, schools, and caregivers to discourage children and other vulnerable road users from engaging in recreational activities involving roller skates on highways, expressways, bridges, and service lanes.
Furthermore, LASTMA advises users of such footwear to restrict their activities to designated recreational areas, private compounds, or other safe environments specifically suited for skating. They should also use appropriate protective equipment, including helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, and other safety gear. This guidance aims to minimize risks and ensure the safety of all road users.
Bakare-Oki reiterated that road safety is a collective responsibility that requires constant vigilance, discipline, and respect for the inherent risks associated with public roads. He emphasized that the preservation of human life must remain paramount, noting that no recreational activity is sufficiently important to justify exposing oneself or other road users to unnecessary danger.
Motorists are urged to exercise heightened vigilance around children and young persons using wheeled footwear, particularly within residential areas, estates, school zones, and other locations where vulnerable road users may suddenly enter the traffic stream. This heightened awareness can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer environment for all.
Finally, Bakare-Oki urged members of the public to promptly report dangerous traffic situations, road obstructions, crashes, breakdowns, and other incidents requiring urgent traffic-management intervention through the LASTMA toll-free short code 3367. This facilitates timely intervention by relevant responders, contributing to overall road safety and management in Lagos.
Key points
- LASTMA warns against using skates and wheeled shoes on Lagos highways due to grave traffic hazards.
- The authority advises restricting skating activities to designated recreational areas with proper safety gear.
- Road safety is a collective responsibility requiring constant vigilance and respect for inherent risks.
