By John Kariuki
"Travelling for the holidays?
Plan your route ahead of time and ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. When
driving, keep left unless carefully overtaking," advised President
Karakacha
The association further noted that
road accidents tend to increase significantly during the holiday season and
urged all road users to be extra vigilant. To help ensure safer travels, they
offered additional tips:
Avoid Overspeeding: Speeding remains a
major cause of road accidents. Drivers are urged to maintain safe speeds,
especially on busy highways and in adverse weather.
Observe Road Courtesy: Respect other
road users by giving way when needed and avoiding aggressive driving.
Take Regular Breaks: For long trips,
drivers should rest periodically to avoid fatigue, which can impair judgment
and reaction times.
Always Wear Seatbelts: Ensure that
every passenger, including those in the back seat, wears a seatbelt at all
times.
Drive Sober: Alcohol and drugs reduce
focus and reaction time. Drivers must remain alert and sober throughout their
journeys.
"During the holidays, we often
witness a surge in road accidents, many of which could be avoided with simple
precautions. Let’s work together to ensure every traveler gets to their
destination safely," emphasized the President.
The Matatu Owners Association also
called on law enforcement to strictly enforce traffic regulations while
remaining fair and supportive to drivers and passengers.
As Kenyans hit the roads this festive
season, let us all commit to being responsible road users. By observing these
safety guidelines, we can ensure a safe and joyous holiday for all. Travel
safe, and happy holidays!