Investigation into the Understanding of Traffic Signs, Symbols and Safety Rules among Drivers in Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Aims: This study examines the understanding of traffic signs and symbols as a safety measure towards accident reduction among drivers in Southern Nigeria. It investigated the understanding of traffic signs and symbols by drivers in Nigeria with regards to their personal characteristics such as age, educational background, and driving experience and also determined the major factors influencing the high rate of road traffic accidents in Nigeria. Study Design: Investigation into the level of knowledge of drivers in understanding traffic signs and symbols in Southern Nigeria. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Southern Nigeria, from September, 2017 to December, 2017. Methodology: 600 questionnaires were administered within the various city parks in Anambra, Enugu, Delta, and Lagos states but 476 of the respondents participated. A total of 27 symbols, which includes ten regulatory signs, nine warning signs, three traffic signals lights, and five road pavement markings were investigated. Miscellaneous questions for driving under special conditions, mechanical factors, and general guides were also assessed among the drivers. The use of Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS), as a tool was employed to analyze the data obtained from the respondents. Results: The analysis showed that there is a low understanding of traffic signs and symbols by drivers in Southern Nigeria. The overall average percentage of drivers who correctly understood the regulatory signs was 59%, warning signs was 64.2%, and pavement markings was 31.8%. The average knowledge percentage of drivers for driving under special conditions, speed/mechanical factor, and general guides are 43%, 53.66%, and 46.4% respectively. From the statistical -analysis of the findings, there is significance prove that age, driving experience, and educational background play an important role in drivers’ understanding of traffic signs and symbols. Conclusion: It is recommended that drivers are properly trained and sensitized on the correct meaning of traffic signs and symbols. The body concerned for issuing a driver’s license should carefully test the drivers’ knowledge before issuing a driver’s license and also traffic law court should be established for the prosecution of defaulters.