The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has warned against using rolling skate shoes and other wheeled footwear on highways, saying the devices expose users to the risk of being struck by moving vehicles.
The agency said the danger was particularly high when users attempted to glide alongside traffic, cross carriageways or navigate busy roads without protective equipment or adult supervision.
In a statement on Sunday signed by LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, the agency said the warning applies to highways, expressways, bridges, service lanes and other vehicular corridors across Lagos State.
LASTMA urged parents, guardians, schools and caregivers to prevent children and other vulnerable road users from using wheeled footwear for recreation on public roads.
It advised users to restrict skating activities to designated recreational facilities, private compounds and other areas considered suitable and safe for the activity.
“The simultaneous movement of vehicles, motorcycles and pedestrians means that those using rolling skate shoes on such roads could struggle to react quickly to sudden changes in traffic, potentially resulting in serious crashes and life-changing injuries,” the statement said.
The agency also recommended helmets, knee pads, elbow pads and other protective equipment when the footwear is used in appropriate locations.
LASTMA General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki urged motorists to remain “particularly vigilant around children and young people using wheeled footwear, especially in residential areas, estates and school zones.”
“No recreational activity should justify exposing users or other road users to avoidable danger,” Bakare-Oki added.
