Motorists Caught Eating, Drinking Or Smoking While Driving Risk 6-month Jail Term, Vehicle Impoundment – LASTMA

Motorists found eating, drinking or smoking while driving risk 6-month jail term, vehicle impoundment – LASTMA.

LASTMA said that distracted driving is punishable under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law 2018.

Other activities that cause distracted driving includes cell phone use, adjusting the radio as well as talking to passengers.

Distractions while driving not only compromise the safety of the driver but that of passengers, pedestrians and people in other vehicles.

As part of its unrelenting effort towards ensuring safer roads, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a serious warning to motorists that activities such as eating, drinking, or smoking while behind the wheel are punishable under the law.

In an official post shared on its social media platforms on Wednesday, April 9th 2025, LASTMA revealed that distracted driving is punishable under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law 2018.

According to LASTMA, offending drivers could have their vehicles impounded or face other penalties such as three (3) months jail term or even six (6) months of community service.

“Smoking, drinking, and eating while driving is an offence under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law 2018.”

“Additional Penalty : Impound vehicle/ Three (3) Months imprisonment or six (6) monthly community service,” LASTMA wrote.

According to LASTMA, distracted driving involves any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the task of driving, significantly increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Some other activities that cause distracted driving includes cell phone use (making calls or texting), adjusting the radio or navigation system as well as talking to passengers.

Distractions while behind the wheel not only compromise the safety of the driver but that of the passengers, pedestrians and people in other vehicles.

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