Despite the progress Uganda has made over the years in constructing new roads and improving the poor ones, the number of car accidents is still quite staggering unfortunately, especially on remote highways. As much as technology has improved and public campaigns helped reduce accidents, there is still one more thing that still holds all the progress back, and that is human errors; regarded as the leading cause of road accidents worldwide. Many adventure seekers prefer to self drive Uganda because it’s a much cheaper and flexible option but the dangers and uncertainties are high as well.
The best way to avoid or reduce the risk of a car accident is by practicing safe driving skills or attributes. Whether you are an experienced driver or a learner, it’s advisable to drive safely and the tips below will give you a hint of what to do and not do when driving on the road in Uganda or any other part of the world for that matter.
1- Car Maintainance – You should ask for a copy of the car maintenance report to find out any issue history that could arise at any moment during your Uganda self drive road trip. Awareness of any potential car safety issues is very vital before you hit the open, if you discover any issue ask for a replacement car or demand a repair before signing the self drive agreement. The engine & battery’s condtion, tyre positioning and pressure should all be checked.
2- Defensive driving – The practice of anticipating dangerous road situations despite an untimely situation or a mistake from a road user is what defensive driving is all about. The risk of falling into a collision or road rage is lowered when a driver applies defensive driving skills for example maintaining a safe distance (2 to 3 seconds gap) between your car and the one in front of you, adjusting speed depending on weather or road condition, reducing speed on road bends.
3- Cautious Driving in bad weather – Be extra careful when driving through heavy rain or on slippery and muddy roads. Always drive slowly and make sure you maintain an extra gap between your car and the one ahead plus reduce speed on sharp bends. If you are not good at self driving in bad weather conditions, then you can delegate the driving to a person who knows better or make a stopover at the gas station, supermarket or restaurant for a break until the storm calms down.
4- Avoid driving drowsy – One of the most underrated or overlooked Uganda self drive safety tips is to avoid driving when you are heavy-eyed or sleepy. Ignoring those yawns is not a great idea, you need to get enough rest before hitting the road and in case you feel drowsy during the road trip, you can ask your friend or partner to take over the driving wheel. If you are traveling alone, then it’s best you take caffeine or a short break at a restaurant before continuing.
5- Wear your seat belt – Not only do car seat belts save lives but also will if not worn, can lead to a fine from the Uganda traffic police. The seat belt will prevent you from being thrown around or outside the car during a crash and so it’s very vital that the driver, as well as passengers, fasten their seat belts to reduce the accident impact.
6- Avoid Over speeding – The number leading cause of road car accidents in Uganda is overspeeding cars. Reckless drivers hurrying, showing off, overtaking or under the influence of alcohol/drugs are more likely to get involved in a road accident compared to one who is driving at normal speeds. Always take your time and strictly obey the speed limit signs to avoid collisions or speeding tickets when you sefl drive Uganda or any other destination for that matter.
7- Don’t drink & drive – Over 20% of road accidents in Uganda involve drivers impaired by alcohol and with the re-opening of bars & nightclubs, the figure will soon rise up. High levels of alcohol can cause blurred vision or even loss of consciousness. Do not get behind the steering wheel if you feel tipsy , you can delegate the driving duties to a friend or partner or simply leave the car parked and order an UBER or SafeBoda to take you to your hotel or residence.
Save lives and enjoy a comfortable road trip by following the above driving tips. Are you planning to self drive Ugandathis season and require a good rental car for the road trip, we at Uganda Car rental Services will be happy to get a suitable car for any kind of road trip you have in mind. You can contact us now by sending an email to info@ugandacarrentalservices.com or call us on +256-700135510
Bryan Muhoozi
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