Do you know the most common traffic violations and their penalties in Nigeria? It’s crucial for every driver, whether you’re a daily commuter, a commercial road user, or even a celebrity navigating the bustling streets. 

With the increasing incidences of traffic infractions, understanding these rules can save you from hefty fines and legal troubles. 

According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), there’s a wide range of offenses that many might not even consider a violation until they are handed a Notice of Offense Sheet. Here are the common traffic violations highlighted by the FRSC and delve into the penalties that come with each to keep you informed and prepared.

List of 54 Common Traffic Violations and Their Penalties in Nigeria

1. Ascertainment of Weight Violation – N2,000
2. Assaulting Marshal on Duty – N10,000
3. Attempting to Corrupt Marshal – N10,000
4. Caution Sign Violation – N3,000
5. Child Restraint Violation – N3,000
6. Child Sitting Position Violation – N3,000
7. Construction Area Speed Limit Violation – N3,000
8. Dangerous Driving – N50,000
9. Do Not Move Violation – N2,000
10. Driver’s Licence Violation – N10,000
11. Driving Right–Hand Steering Vehicle – N3,000
12. Driving Under Alcohol or Drug Influence – N5,000
13. Driving with Expired/Without Spare Tyre – N2,000
14. Driving with Worn-Out Tyre – N3,000
15. Excessive Smoke Emission – N5,000
16. Failure to Cover Unstable Materials – N5,000
17. Failure to Fix Red Flag on Projected Load – N3,000
18. Failure to Move Over – N3,000
19. Failure to Install Speed Limiting Device – N3,000
20. Failure to Report Road Crash – N20,000
21. Fire Extinguisher Violation – N3,000
22. Fleet Operation Violation – N200,000
23. Inadequate Construction Warning Sign – N50,000
24. Instructors Permit and Training Violation – N2,000
25. Latching and Twist-Locks Violation – N5,000
26. Learners Driving Regulation Violation – N3,000
27. Light/Sign Violation – N2,000
28. Medical Personnel or Hospital Rejection of Road Accident Victim – N50,000
29. Obstructing Marshal on Duty – N2,000
30. Operating a Vehicle with Forged Documents – N20,000
31. Operating Mechanically Deficient Vehicle – N5,000
32. Other Offences/Violations – N3,000
33. Overloading – N10,000
34. Passengers’ Manifest Violation – N10,000
35. Preaching or Hawking in Commercial Vehicle – N50,000
36. Projected Load in Excess of Prescribed Limit – N3,000
37. Riding Motorcycle Without Using Crash Helmet – N3,000
38. Road Marking Violation – N5,000
39. Road Obstruction – N3,000
40. Route Violation – N5,000
41. School Bus Violation – N2,000
42. Seat Belt Violation – N2,000
43. Speed Limit Violation – N5,000
44. Unauthorized Removal/Tampering with Road Signs – N5,000
45. Underage Driving/Riding – N2,000
46. Use of Phone While Driving – N4,000
47. Use of Sirens Violation – N2,000
48. Vehicle Identification Tag Violation – N3,000
49. Vehicle Licence Violation – N3,000
50. Vehicle Mirror Violation – N3,000
51. Vehicle Number Plate Violation – N3,000
52. Vehicle Windshield Violation – N2,000
53. Wrongful Overtaking – N3,000
54. Failure to Install Speed Limiting Device (Second Listing) – N2,000

Whether it’s a seemingly minor infraction like not using a seat belt or more severe offenses like dangerous driving, the FRSC has set penalties to encourage compliance and ensure safer roads for everyone. Let’s all strive to abide by these rules, not just to avoid fines, but to protect lives on our roads.