Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
About 300 drivers in the employ of the Transport Company of Anambra State (TRACAS) have undergone motor ordinance training and other refresher trainings in Awka, Anambra State.
The Vehicle Inspection Service Department of the Ministry of Transport, Anambra State, conducted the training at the VIO Computerised Centre in the state capital.
The VIO officials stated that the essence of the exercise was to refresh and retrain drivers on the ethics of driving especially ahead of the busy Yuletide season.
Addressing the gathering, the Head of Accident Investigation Unit, Vehicle Inspection Service Department of the Ministry, Engineer Eze Daniel Onyeka, told drivers that competent driving prioritises safety and responsible behavior on the road.
He also reminded them that to have a safe driving requires patience, tolerance, concentration ratio, good attitude, and cordial relationship traits.
He said: “Driving is serious business, and not all drivers are competent. A competent driver is someone who possesses the knowledge, skills, and attitude to operate a vehicle safely and responsibly.
Engr Eze stated that a significant cause of accidents on the road is caused by human factors. These factors he said are speeding, distracted driving (such as texting or using a phone), impaired driving (due to alcohol or drugs), reckless behavior, fatigue, and other forms of negligence.
“One mistake made by a driver can lead to irreversible consequences, drivers must understand the potential consequences of their actions on the road,” Eze said.
Also speaking, VIO Head Of Operations, Engineer Obidoa Chukwueloka urged drivers to change their perception that Vehicle Inspection Service Officers are only fault finders.
“If the police is your friend, then VIO is your brother and we genuinely have the interests of road users at heart.
He noted that VIO’s primary role is to help improve road safety by enforcing laws related to vehicle conditions, and licensing regulations.
He pointed out that most drivers do not have valid driving licenses and enjoined them to endeavor to go through the proper channels when obtaining a driver’s license.
Engr Obidoa stated that every driver in Anambra is expected to have an up-to-date license, insurance, vehicle license, and road worthiness.
The TRACAS drivers were also taught about the Regulatory Traffic Signs which include: prohibitory signs, warning signs, mandatory signs, and informative signs. Furthermore, their vehicles were subjected to Computerised Motor Check.
