An Analysis of the Factors and Impacts of Road Hazards on Road Users in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

Road hazards remain a major contributor to traffic accidents, economic losses, and reduced urban mobility, particularly in developing regions with insufficient infrastructure and weak enforcement of traffic regulations. This study examines the types, causes, and impacts of road hazards on road users in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, Nigeria. A mixed-method approach was employed, incorporating field observations, structured questionnaires administered to 400 respondents (motorists, commercial drivers, and pedestrians), interviews with officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps and the State General Hospital, and spatial mapping using Geographic Information Ekiti. These are primarily driven by inadequate government funding, seasonal flooding, delayed Systems (GIS). Findings revealed that potholes (73%), poor drainage (48%), lack of road signage (54%), and reckless driving (62%) are the most common hazards affecting road safety in Ado- maintenance, and low public awareness of road safety practices. Secondary data were sourced from existing literature, road accident records, and official publications. The impacts of these hazards include increased accident rates, vehicle damage, travel delays, and elevated risks to vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists and pedestrians. Spatial analysis identified hazard hotspots in areas such as Ajilosun, Odo-Ado, Poly Road, and Adebayo. Although government interventions such as road repairs and awareness campaigns have been implemented, the persistence of hazards underscores the need for a more integrated and proactive urban safety strategy. The study concludes that mitigating road hazards in Ado-Ekiti will require coordinated efforts, including infrastructure upgrades, strict enforcement of traffic laws, enhanced public education, and sustainable investment in road maintenance. These recommendations are intended to inform policymakers, transport authorities, and urban planners in developing safer road environments for all users.