LASTMA warns against skating on highways

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has warned members of the public against using roller skates, wheeled footwear and similar recreational devices on highways and other roads used by motorists.

The warning was directed particularly at children, teenagers, and young adults, with the agency saying the practice exposes users to avoidable traffic hazards, especially when they glide alongside moving vehicles, cross carriageways, or manoeuvre through traffic.

LASTMA said public highways are designed primarily for vehicular movement and present unpredictable conditions involving vehicles, motorcycles and pedestrians, making them unsuitable for recreational activities involving wheeled devices.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said road safety requires vigilance and discipline from all road users.

He emphasised 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.

The agency advised parents, guardians, schools, and caregivers to discourage children from using roller skates on highways, expressways, bridges, service lanes, and other roads where vehicular traffic is permitted.

It also urged users of the footwear to restrict skating activities to designated recreational areas, private compounds, and other safe locations, while using protective equipment such as helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads.

LASTMA advised motorists to exercise caution around children and young people using wheeled footwear, particularly in residential areas, estates and school zones, where they could suddenly enter the traffic stream.

The agency further advised members of the public to report dangerous traffic situations, road obstructions, crashes, vehicle breakdowns, and other incidents requiring urgent traffic management intervention through its toll-free short code, 3367.

The warning comes amid concerns over the use of wheeled recreational devices in areas where they can come into conflict with vehicular traffic, increasing the risk of collisions and serious injuries.