The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed the death of an empty truck driver following a tragic lone road traffic accident involving a 40-foot containerized articulated vehicle along Isheri Elemu inward Ijegun, Lagos
The unfortunate incident resulted in the immediate death of the driver, who became trapped beneath the overturned truck and succumbed instantly to the impact of the crash. The motor boy accompanying the deceased, however, survived the accident with multiple injuries and fractures and was promptly rescued and evacuated to a nearby medical facility for urgent medical attention.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the articulated truck, which was not carrying any cargo suddenly lost stability while in motion and overturned, leading to the devastating accident.
Operatives of LASTMA Rescue and Recovery Unit swiftly mobilized to the scene and undertook a coordinated emergency intervention. The rescue team successfully extricated the lifeless body of the trapped driver from beneath the wreckage while simultaneously ensuring the safe evacuation of the injured motor boy.
In addition, LASTMA personnel immediately secured the accident corridor, implemented comprehensive traffic control measures and coordinated emergency response operations aimed at preventing secondary collisions and safeguarding other road users within the vicinity.
Officers and men of the Isheri Osun Police Division provided critical security support throughout the rescue and recovery exercise, ensuring orderliness and facilitating seamless emergency operations.
To expedite the clearance of the accident scene and restore normal vehicular movement along the corridor, a heavy-duty crane and a flatbed recovery truck were promptly deployed to remove the overturned articulated vehicle and evacuate the wreckage from the roadway.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Bakare-Oki Olalekan expressed profound sorrow over the loss of life and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased driver.
He also conveyed his sincere wishes for the speedy and complete recovery of the injured motor boy, who is currently receiving medical treatment.
Mr. Bakare-Oki reiterated the Authority's unwavering commitment to road safety advocacy, stressing the imperative need for routine mechanical inspections and proactive maintenance of heavy-duty vehicles, particularly articulated trucks operating on Lagos roads.
According to him, critical safety components including braking systems, steering mechanisms, tyres, suspension assemblies and other essential mechanical parts must undergo regular professional assessments to ensure optimum operational efficiency and prevent avoidable tragedies.
The General Manager further urged fleet operators, transport companies, truck owners and drivers to prioritise vehicle roadworthiness and strict compliance with established safety regulations at all times, noting that preventable mechanical failures continue to constitute a significant threat to lives, property and the overall safety of the motoring public.
Adebayo Taofiq
Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA
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