The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has responded to 1,409 road traffic crashes and rescued 670 victims across Lagos State in nine months, underscoring the demand for emergency response services amid persistent road safety concerns.

The agency disclosed this over the weekend, saying its operatives had continued to respond to crash scenes, rescue victims and manage traffic to prevent secondary accidents.

According to LASTMA, its personnel conduct preliminary assessments at crash scenes, evacuate victims, divert traffic and ensure that emergency responders have unhindered access to affected areas.

The agency also coordinates its operations with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and other relevant emergency response organisations to provide assistance to victims.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening emergency response, improving public awareness and promoting compliance with traffic regulations.

He urged motorists to observe speed limits, obey traffic signals, wear seat belts and ensure their vehicles were roadworthy.

He also warned against distracted driving and reckless manoeuvres, noting that responsible driving and regular vehicle inspections were essential to preventing avoidable crashes.

Bakare-Oki called on private motorists, commercial transport operators, dispatch riders and pedestrians to exercise caution, respect traffic directives and remain vigilant on the roads.

He urged members of the public to promptly report road crashes, obstructions and other traffic-related emergencies through LASTMA’s toll-free short code, 3367, to enable the agency to respond swiftly.

The LASTMA boss noted that road crashes often result in fatalities, serious injuries, financial losses and emotional distress for victims and their families.

He stressed that adherence to traffic regulations, defensive driving and cooperation among road users were necessary to reduce accidents and improve safety across the state.