Driving with worn-out tyres in Nigeria attracts a ₦3,000 fine from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), according to official regulations. This penalty is just one of many traffic offences that can cost Nigerian drivers thousands of naira and lead to vehicle impoundment.
FRSC Traffic Offences and Their Fines
The FRSC enforces a range of penalties for traffic violations under the Federal Road Safety Commission Act and the National Road Traffic Regulations. Below is a comprehensive list of major offences and their corresponding fines:
- Dangerous driving: ₦50,000
- Operating a vehicle with forged documents: ₦20,000
- Driving without a valid driver's licence or with an expired licence: ₦10,000
- Overloading violation: ₦10,000
- Driving under the influence (DUI): ₦5,000
- Using a mobile phone while driving: ₦4,000
- Driving with worn-out tyres: ₦3,000
- Expired vehicle licence: ₦3,000
- No caution sign in the vehicle: ₦3,000
- Seat belt violation: ₦2,000
These fines are based on the FRSC's traffic offence schedule. While ₦3,000 for worn-out tyres may seem minor, the real cost is safety: bald tyres are a leading cause of highway accidents on Nigeria's unpredictable roads.
What Happens If Your Vehicle Is Impounded?
If your vehicle is impounded for a severe violation, a custody fee of ₦200 per day kicks in after the initial 24-hour grace period. For example, a dangerous driving fine of ₦50,000 combined with daily storage fees can quickly escalate costs. The FRSC impounds vehicles for offences such as number plate violations or driving without proper documentation.
How to Avoid FRSC Troubles
To avoid fines and impoundment, drivers should take preventive measures:
- Inspect your tyres regularly: Check tread depth; replace tyres if grooves are smooth or wire mesh is visible.
- Keep a paper trail: Ensure your driver's licence, vehicle licence, and insurance are valid.
- Get a safety kit: Carry a fire extinguisher, spare tyre, and reflective C-Caution triangle. Missing a caution sign alone incurs a ₦3,000 fine.
- Drop the phone: Use hands-free or wait until parked; a ₦4,000 fine for texting is not worth the risk.
Safe driving is not just about avoiding penalties but ensuring everyone reaches home safely.
