Police Cautions on Driving in Heavy Rain As 70 Are Killed in Accidents

The traffic police have cautioned drivers against driving during the heavy downpour as 70 people perished in crashes in seven days.  

Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson, said they have noticed an increase in crashes resulting from visibility challenges during heavy rains.

Kananura cited the Namboole crash which happened on Friday, where a Nissan Fuga UBJ 615A collided with Hiace UAX 036F during a heavy downpour leaving three people with serious injuries. The Nissan Fuga eventually caught fire and if it wasn’t for the swift response of nearby people, the victims could have perished. 

“As the rainy season is being experienced, some roads get flooded and also causes reduced visibility. Therefore to ensure your safety on the road, it is crucial to obey safety precautions. Check your tyres, check the brakes and lights of the vehicle. Reduce the speed and maintain a safe distance,” Kananura said.

More than 70 perished in road crashes last week and some of the deaths were recorded during heavy downpours. They included 35 motorcyclists, six passengers on motorcycles and 32 pedestrians.

“Do not drive through stagnant water. Ensure your windshield and wipers are in good condition. Avoid overtaking when it is raining. If the visibility is extremely poor, please park aside and wait for it to stop raining,” Kananura said.

Among the notable road crashes of last week include the Mayanja Valley incident at Kawanda which involved a trailer UBR 197D and a motorcycle carrying three passengers. Police said the trailer driver overtook the motorcycle at a high speed and forced the rider to lose control. 

“The passengers who included a mother, an infant, and a caregiver were thrown inside the tyres and crashed to death. The rider fell aside but later succumbed to injuries. The trailer driver did not consider other road users,” Kananura said. 

Police have said motorcycle riders often lose control when vehicles overtake them at a high speed because of overloading. Police said when a rider has two, three or more passengers, he tends to control whenever a speeding vehicle overtakes him.

“Motorists and motorcyclists must prioritize road safety. Refrain from overloading these motorcycles. Do not carry more than one passenger. Consider your life before you sit on a motorcycle. Wear protective gear,” Kananura said.

Safe Way Right Way (SWRW) and other members of Road Safety Coalition Uganda (ROSACU) have often urged motorcyclists to have protective gear but this call hasn’t been heeded. 

Fred Kiapi, a road safety activist says more sensitization on helmet use and reflector jackets is needed so that motorcyclists and their passengers can embrace having protective gear like crash helmets.