Transport And Communications 2025, 13(2):9-15 | DOI: 10.26552/tac.C.2025.2.2

An Appraisal of Drivers’ Attitude towards Road Accident Victims in Nigeria

Dimeji R. Sonde1, Victor A. Ogundele2, Abdulwazil, O. Imam3
1 Department of Transport Management, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria
2 Department of Transport Management, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomosho, Nigeria
3 Department of Geography and Environmental Education, Lagos State University of Education, Nigeria

Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with developing nations like Nigeria experiencing disproportionately high fatality rates. Despite the presence of a dedicated road safety agency, Nigeria's road traffic fatality rate remains one of the highest globally, with contributing factors including risky driving behavior, inadequate emergency response, and societal attitudes towards accident victims. This study aims to appraise drivers' attitudes toward assisting road accident victims in Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted, utilizing primary data collected through questionnaires administered to five respondent groups: transport operators, commuters, law enforcement agents, health practitioners, and accident survivors. A total of 316 questionnaires were distributed, with 309 returned and analyzed using descriptive statistics and SERVQUAL analysis. A multi-stage sampling technique, incorporating stratified and snowball sampling, was employed. Findings reveal that a majority of respondents were reluctant to assist accident victims due to fears of mob violence and police arrest. This indicates structural and social barriers preventing timely first aid and emergency response. The study concludes that despite the significant impact driver assistance could have in reducing victim fatalities but they reluctant to rescue victims, it was recommended that improving driver education, legal protection for good Samaritans, and structured first-aid training programs could significantly enhance accident survival rates.

Keywords: Road Traffic Accidents, Driver Attitude, First Aid, Emergency Response
JEL classification: L91, R41

Received: September 5, 2026; Revised: December 19, 2025; Accepted: December 21, 2025; Published: December 31, 2025  Show citation

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Sonde, D.R., Ogundele, V.A., & Imam, A.O. (2025). An Appraisal of Drivers’ Attitude towards Road Accident Victims in Nigeria. Transport And Communications, 13(2), 9-15. doi: 10.26552/tac.C.2025.2.2
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