LASTMA Warns Against Use of Rolling Skate Shoes on Highways

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has cautioned members of the public, particularly teenagers and young adults, against the use of rolling skate shoes, wheeled footwear and similar recreational devices on highways and busy roads across the state.

According to the state traffic management authority, the growing use of footwear fitted with concealed or retractable wheels on roads meant for vehicular movement could expose users to serious traffic dangers.

LASTMA said the risk becomes particularly high when people wearing the shoes attempt to glide beside moving vehicles, cross busy roads without caution or move through traffic without proper supervision and protective equipment.

“The introduction of wheeled recreational devices into such spaces can significantly diminish a user’s ability to respond appropriately to sudden vehicular movements, creating circumstances capable of culminating in devastating collisions and life-altering injuries,” LASTMA said in a statement.

While urging parents, guardians, schools and caregivers to restrict the skating activities of their wards to recreational areas and other locations away from moving traffic, LASTMA also recommended the use of helmets, knee pads, elbow pads and other protective gear.

LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said protecting lives on Lagos roads requires the cooperation of everyone. He stressed that recreational activities should not be carried out in ways that put participants or other road users at unnecessary risk.

The Authority also appealed to motorists to remain particularly alert around children and young people in residential areas, estates and school zones, where they could unexpectedly move into the path of approaching vehicles.

The Authority further urged members of the public to promptly report dangerous traffic situations, road obstructions, crashes, breakdowns and other incidents requiring urgent traffic-management intervention through the LASTMA toll-free short code 3367 to facilitate timely intervention by relevant responders.

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