Share

Tweet

Share

Share

Email

Comments

The festive season often sees an increase in road travel as people journey upcountry for celebrations.

However, recent data from SP Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson, highlights a worrying trend: over 700 road accidents occurred in just two weeks this December, resulting in more than 150 fatalities.

To ensure safer travels, The Standard has compiled crucial driving tips, especially for novice drivers:

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

• Service your car: Check and replace worn tyres, suspension bushes, tie rods, rack ends, and belts. Ensure alignment and camber adjustments are completed.
• Inspect essentials: Confirm your battery, lights, indicators, and spare tyre are in working order. Keep water levels sufficient to avoid overheating.

2. Avoid Overloading

• Ensure all passengers are seated and wearing seatbelts.
• Never allow children to stand, especially behind the dashboard or in other unsecured areas.

3. Drive Cautiously

• Maintain a safe speed: Avoid racing or competing with other drivers.
• Yield generously: Give way, even if you have the right of way.
• Avoid overtaking: Never overtake on blind corners or during heavy rain.

4. Handle Breakdowns Safely

• Distance matters: If your car breaks down, move your family at least 20 meters into a safe area away from the highway.
• Triangle placement: Set your warning triangle at least 70 meters behind your vehicle to alert oncoming traffic.

5. Prepare for Emergencies

• Learn basic first aid and accident response techniques.
• Ensure every traveller knows emergency numbers and how to use them, including children.

6. Be a Responsible Road User

• If you encounter an accident, stop to offer assistance rather than taking photos for social media. Your intervention could save a life.

7. Stay Calm and Patient

• Avoid unnecessary aggression or distractions that can cloud your judgement.
• Drive slowly and give every action careful thought—it’s a holiday, not a race.

Safe driving is everyone’s responsibility. Let patience, caution, and preparedness guide your journeys this holiday season.