Kampala- In the lead-up to the festive period, the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has intensified efforts to address the rising number of road fatalities.
According to statistics released by Traffic Police Spokesperson Michael Kananura, there has been a 5.7% rise in road traffic fatalities from January to June 2024, with 2,042 deaths reported.
Pedestrians and motorcyclists, particularly boda boda riders and their passengers, remain the most vulnerable road users. The festive season of 2023 saw nearly 60 lives lost between December 23 and January 1, underscoring the urgent need for heightened enforcement.
In response to this alarming trend, Kananura on Tuesday outlined a series of safety measures the traffic police are putting into action to mitigate the risks this season.
While addressing Journalists at police headquarters in Nagulu, he pointed to unsafe overtaking as one of the leading causes of fatal accidents. “We will be conducting heightened operations on speeding, reckless driving, and other offenses, especially unsafe overtaking, which has proven to be a major killer on our roads,” Kananura noted.
In addition to these enforcement efforts, Kananura announced that traffic officers would be conducting roadside checks to ensure drivers are sober and competent. This includes random alcohol and drug tests for all public service vehicle drivers and the introduction of mandatory driver badges for bus drivers, which have been in the process of being issued for the past two months.
“We have started issuing driver badges, including photographs, to ensure that the right person is behind the wheel. If passengers spot a driver who doesn’t match the badge, they should report it immediately,” Kananura explained.
To further safeguard motorists, the traffic police will conduct detailed vehicle inspections, particularly for buses, trucks, and taxis, focusing on roadworthiness. “Mechanical failures, such as brake issues, have caused accidents in recent months. Our inspections will ensure vehicles are safe for the road,” Kananura said.
For motorcyclists, the authorities are doubling down on enforcing helmet use, reflective jackets, and valid riding licenses. “We will be focusing on boda boda riders, ensuring they comply with safety standards, including wearing helmets and carrying only one passenger,” Kananura added.
The festive season also brings increased scrutiny on vehicle maintenance. Kananura urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are in sound mechanical condition, particularly as many roads will be crowded and weather conditions may change. “Make sure your tires, wipers, headlights, and brakes are all in working order. A well-maintained vehicle can make the difference in preventing accidents,” he explained
Kananura also emphasized the importance of checking vehicle documents and ensuring all licenses and permits are valid. “Drivers should always carry a copy of their driving or riding license. With today’s technology, you can even keep a copy on your phone,” he said
Public awareness is also a key component of the road safety strategy. Kananura announced that the traffic police would ramp up educational campaigns targeting vulnerable groups, including pedestrians, motorcyclists, and truck drivers. These campaigns will be delivered through flyers, brochures, radio, TV, and social media platforms, with a particular focus on informing road users about speed limits, seatbelt use, and the dangers of distracted driving.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility. Motorists, passengers, and pedestrians must all do their part. If we all follow the rules, we can significantly reduce road crashes,” Kananura emphasized encouraging the public to report all traffic incidents via the toll-free hotline: 0800199099, or through the police social media channels.
Key guidelines for motorists and passengers include:
- Plan Your Journey: Avoid rushing to make up for lost time. Plan ahead to reduce the temptation to speed or overtake unsafely.
- Do Not Drink and Drive: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Designate a sober driver or use alternative transport if necessary.
- Obey Speed Limits: Stick to the speed limits, and be particularly cautious in high-traffic areas. Remember, for passenger service vehicles, the maximum speed is 80 km/h, while saloon cars should not exceed 100 km/h.
- Use Seatbelts and Child Restraints: Ensure everyone in the vehicle is safely secured with a seatbelt. Children must be properly restrained and never sit in the front seat.
- Avoid Distractions: Refrain from texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving. Stay focused on the road.
- Know When and Where to Overtake: Only overtake when it’s safe, and never in areas where visibility is limited.
- Motorcycle Safety: Ensure you wear a properly fastened helmet and carry only one passenger. Use reflective jackets to increase visibility.
- Be Cautious in Bad Weather: In the rainy season, avoid driving through flooded areas, and exercise extra caution on slippery or foggy roads.
- Rest and Avoid Fatigue: Take breaks during long journeys to avoid driver fatigue, which is a common cause of accidents.