Traffic Accident Report Highlights Safety Measures and Challenges

In a recent traffic accident report, a total of 432 accidents were recorded, resulting in 97 fatalities, 202 serious injuries, and 133 minor injuries. Among the 424 victims, 100 lost their lives, while 324 sustained injuries. The fatalities included 42 motorcycle riders (29 riders and 13 passengers) and 40 pedestrians.

One particularly devastating accident occurred on July 16, 2023, at around 8:30 PM, at Muzizi Forest along the Kagadi-Kyenjojo Road in Kagadi District. It involved two vehicles: the UAD 431Q Trailer and the UAM 426V Toyota Hiace. Preliminary findings indicate that the UAD 431Q Trailer, traveling from Sudan to Congo, failed to negotiate a corner at Muzizi Forest, resulting in a collision with the UAM 426V Toyota Hiace. Tragically, 15 individuals on board the Toyota Hiace, including the driver and conductor, lost their lives, while three others sustained injuries. Additionally, one passenger in the Toyota Hiace and two individuals in the Trailer were injured.

The causes of these accidents have been attributed to factors such as speeding, careless overtaking, overtaking on blind corners and hills, distracted driving, and road obstructions caused by broken-down vehicles.

SP Kananura Michael Public Relations Officer, Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety emphasizes the following guidelines to promote road safety:

1. Adhering to speed limits on all roads
2. Exercising caution and patience when overtaking
3. Placing reflectors around broken-down vehicles for visibility
4. Reporting broken-down vehicles to the nearest police station
5. Remaining vigilant and reporting road obstructions to the toll-free line 0800199099
6. Collaborating with private breakdown service providers for prompt vehicle removal
7. Maintaining constant vigilance due to Uganda's role as a transit country

Respecting all road users is crucial, and the Traffic Directorate urges vigilance and responsible behavior. The public can report traffic violations by calling the toll-free number 0800199099.

"Efforts are underway to promote self-regulation and discipline among road users through sensitization programs, engagement with motorcycle taxi and bus operators, and radio and TV programs. The Inspector of Vehicles (IOV) has conducted competence tests on 8,807 riders to ensure their proficiency on the roads," Kananura added.