Motorists in Uganda have received advice from Superintendent of Police Kananura Michael, the Spokesperson for Traffic Road and Safety Directorate, during a media briefing on September 2, 2023. He strongly recommends that all drivers use emergency warning signs when they face issues while driving.
According to Kananura, every vehicle should carry two emergency warning signs, as required by Section 7 of the Traffic and Road Safety (Reflectors) Regulations, 2012. These signs are used to alert other drivers about potential hazards on the road.
The signs, which are triangular and equipped with reflectors, must be placed both in front and behind the vehicle, and positioned at least 45 meters away. Kananura specified that each side of the triangle should measure at least 30cm, and the signs should be constructed from reflective materials, painted red, and have reflectors at each corner.
Kananura warned that during routine checks at Fika Salama checkpoints, vehicles without these reflectors would face penalties.
In the latest Fika Salama Extra operation for September, 380 drivers were caught speeding along Kampala-Entebbe Expressway, captured by CCTV cameras, and fined 200,000/=. Additionally, 474 drivers were apprehended for driving under the influence of alcohol across various Kampala Metropolitan stations, detained overnight, fingerprinted, and fined 200,000/=.
To reduce road accidents, Kananura emphasized the importance of cautious driving, highlighting careless overtaking and speeding as significant causes. He also stressed the mandatory use of crash helmets for riders and warned that non-compliance could result in arrest.
Kananura urged both drivers and riders to avoid driving in poor visibility conditions caused by bad weather, such as rain or fog. In such situations, he emphasized the importance of using dipped headlights to help other drivers recognize oncoming vehicles.
SP Kananura expressed gratitude to those reporting traffic violations and complaints through the police Toll-Free Number 0800199099. He encouraged the public to continue reporting any indiscipline on the roads.
