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The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a cautionary notice to road users concerning the potentially risky conditions caused by heavy rains sweeping across the nation.
In a statement released on Saturday, NTSA Director General George Njao stressed the imperative for heightened vigilance, urging the public to exercise extra caution, courtesy, and adherence to safety protocols.
He underscored the importance of being mindful of vulnerable road users, including children and pedestrians.
NTSA also warned motorists about the hazards of accumulated dirt, soil, and oil residues on roads due to increased precipitation following a prolonged dry spell.
The statement reads, “With heightened rainfall, the Authority advises road users of the accumulation of dirt, soil, and oil residues after the recent dry weather.”
Drivers were advised to decrease speed to safely maneuver these slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of losing control.
Moreover, NTSA expressed concern over instances of motorists attempting to navigate through floodwaters and submerged roads.
They urged drivers to steer clear of such scenarios and called upon passengers to take charge of their safety by speaking up against unsafe driving practices.
Among the safety measures recommended by NTSA are the swift removal of stalled vehicles, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, and ensuring proper visibility by turning on headlights.
The authority also advised drivers to drive cautiously after encountering water to allow brakes to dry and to maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel for better control.
Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists were encouraged to wear bright clothing or reflective vests to enhance their visibility on the roads.
NTSA reaffirmed its dedication to road safety and announced plans for joint road safety compliance checks with the National Police Service (NPS) on major highways.
These checks will encompass speed monitoring, verification of NTSA documentation and licenses, random breathalyzer tests, and crackdowns on overloaded vehicles and illegal public service vehicles (PSVs).
NTSA urged all road users to adhere to safety protocols and cooperate with law enforcement officers to ensure safer roads for everyone.
Since the beginning of the year, 7,198 Kenyans have been involved in road accidents, marking an increase of 1,908 compared to the same period last year, according to NTSA data covering January 1 to April 1.
Among the 7,198 Kenyans, 1,189 died from road accidents, 3,316 sustained serious injuries, and 2,693 suffered minor injuries.
This data reveals a stark contrast compared to the same period in 2023, where fatalities from crashes stood at 1,129, serious injuries were reported at 2,435, and minor injuries were recorded at 1,726.
Pedestrians accounted for the highest number of fatalities in 2024 at 436, marking an increase from 374 the previous year.
Motorcyclists followed with 276 fatalities, a decrease from 311 in 2023.
At least 255 passengers lost their lives in the review period, an increase from 211 in the previous year.
Pillion passengers recorded 102 fatalities compared to 105 in the same period in 2023.
The number of drivers who died decreased to 98 in the review period from 108 in 2023.
Among pedal cyclists, 22 fatalities were reported this year compared to 20 in 2022.
