By Annet Nakanwagi,
NATIONAL
Traffic police have attributed to over speeding, driving while on phones and obstruction from broken-down vehicles as the major cause of accidents on Ugandan roads
This was during the release of weekly traffic and road safety report by SP Kananura Michael, spokesperson Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety at police headquarters Naguru on Monday July 17.
According to the report, a total of 432 accidents were registered last week including 97 fatal cases, 202 serious and 133 minor accidents. A total of 100 died while 324 sustained injuries.
Kananura said that among the fatalities 42 were travelling on motorcycles; both passengers and riders, 40 were pedestrians.
He called upon all road users to be more vigilant and extra careful when on the road and also warned drivers against exceeding the prescribed speed limits.
“We urge users of broken-down vehicles to put triangular reflectors on both sides of the vehicle, in front and behind to alert the incoming vehicle as well as informing the traffic about abandoned cars in their areas” he explained.
Kananura revealed arrangements by the directorate to reduce road accidents in the country.
“Efforts are currently underway to promote self-regulation and discipline among road users through sensitization programs conducted by the traffic police,” Kananura explained. “This includes engagement with motorcycle taxi operators, bus operators, as well as conducting a radio and TV programs.”
