Collisions on Kara Bridge Prompt Traffic Chaos on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
A series of accidents on the Kara Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has resulted in significant traffic congestion, leaving numerous motorists stranded.
Fatalities and Injuries Reported
In the early hours of Friday, one individual lost their life and two others sustained injuries from the collisions. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has advised drivers to explore alternative routes to navigate the affected area.
Accident Details and Response Efforts
The multiple incidents unfolded on both the outbound and inbound lanes of the expressway, with ongoing rescue and recovery operations. The initial crash occurred around 12:05 a.m. in the outbound lane towards Itami, involving five articulated trucks and a Toyota Sienna.
Causes Identified as Speed and Loss of Control
The accidents appear to stem from excessive speed and a subsequent loss of control. According to the FRSC’s statement, seven adult males were engaged in the initial collision. Of those involved, one person died and another was injured, while the remaining five emerged unscathed. Tragically, due to the position of one heavily loaded truck, the deceased’s body remains trapped under the vehicle, necessitating specialized recovery equipment for evacuation.
Subsequent Collision Compounds Issues
While emergency personnel were addressing the first incident, a secondary collision occurred at approximately 3:15 a.m. on the upbound lane towards Lagos. This accident, involving a Mazda commercial bus, was attributed to brake failure, resulting in serious injuries to the driver. The FRSC emergency response team promptly transported him to the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Center for immediate medical attention.
Collaboration Among Emergency Services
The FRSC has stated that rescue teams are collaborating with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency and additional emergency response units to clear the damaged vehicles, recover trapped individuals, and restore normal traffic flow on the expressway.
Appeal for Patience and Caution
Lagos Area Commander Kehinde Hamzat expressed sympathy for the victims’ families and urged motorists to be patient while cooperating with authorities managing the situation. He emphasized the necessity of using alternative routes to prevent delays, specifically recommending the Ikorodu-Sagamu route for those traveling from Lagos to Ibadan and the Lekki-Epe Expressway for those heading towards Lagos.
Emphasis on Vehicle Safety
The FRSC reiterated the importance of vehicle maintenance, particularly for operators of articulated vehicles and commercial buses, reminding all drivers to ensure their vehicles are mechanically sound before embarking on any journeys.
