The Uganda Traffic Police has revealed that during last week 65 people died and 338 sustained injuries due to road accidents.
SP Kananura Michael, PRO Traffic and Road Safety Directorate said that among the dead were 29 motorcyclists, 18 pedestrians, 07 passengers in motor vehicles, 04 passengers on motorcycles, 03 pedal cyclists, 03 others and 01 Driver.
“Motor cycles alone contributed to 45% of the total fatalities,” SP Kananura said.
He noted that the major crashes of these road crashes were careless overtaking contributing to 26% of the total crashes, speeding contributed to 19% of the total crashes.
“On the 19-05-2024 at 04:30pm at River Namatala bridge along Naboa-Butaleja Road a single fatal crash involving M/V UAM 969P T/IPSUM, was registered. The crash claimed the lives of seven (07) people. The crash occurred when the driver of the said vehicle while on his way from Mpigi to Butaleja carrying 07 passengers and himself making a total of 08 occupants in the vehicle, while at Naboa along Naboa-Butaleja Road in Budaka District lost control and drowned into the waters of River Namatala, 07 people lost lives due to drowning, at first only six bodies had been found but later late in the evening 01 which was missing was also found whereas the driver managed to get out the vehicle through the open glass of his door un injured,” SP Kananura reported.
He added that the bodies were removed and taken to Budaka HC IV and the postmortem was done. The motor vehicle was towed to Budaka Police station pending IOVs Inspection.
He said, “The cause according to the preliminary report is that the driver was fatigued and dosed off making him lose control.”
SP Kananura however said that operations are going on to track Boda-bodas especially those without reflective jackets and helmets and all those without valid licenses i.e out of class, expired and those without at all. Illegal sirens, roof lights, modified lights and violation of one way rules will be considered.
He added that concerning over-speeding issues, road safety sensitizations to promote behavioral change will continue to be implemented.
“During this week, there are a number of activities that are likely to affect the normal flow of traffic across the country. These include the processions of the pilgrims to Namugongo and children going back to schools. The Directorate of Traffic and Road safety therefore reminds all road users to be cautious with road safety tips,” he guided.
He urged pedestrians to be visible by wearing bright or reflective clothing to make themselves visible to drivers. Also to follow traffic rules by obeying traffic signals, pedestrians’ signs and markings where they are available.
“Use designated crossing points, zebra crossing where they are available. Look left, right and left again before crossing a road, check for traffic in both directions before you cross. Avoid distractions; put away your phone and avoid listening to music while texting while walking on the road. Stay alert, be aware of your surroundings and watch out for potential hazards. Use pedestrians’ paths; use designated pedestrian paths and sidewalks where available and be cautious at night; be extra careful when walking at night, as visibility is reduced,” Kananura advised.
He encouraged the pilgrims to move in teams or groups for easy monitoring, noting that these groups will be led by the traffic officers who will be handing them over to next traffic officers in their command.
SP Kananura guided, “Groups of pilgrims should keep to the left side of the road. Use the footpaths if there is one. Persons wearing bright or light colored clothing preferably a high-visibility jacket with reflective strips should be positioned at the front and back of the group to watch out for traffic. We also encourage well-wishers to give to them reflectors to enable them to be visible to motorists especially in the night.”
