Drive cautiously this festive season, PS Omollo urges drivers

"In pursuit of festive cheer, it is paramount to "Arrive Alive and Arrive Safely".

In Summary

• PS Omollo said the December holidays, which are synonymous with increased travel, unfortunately witness a surge in road accidents often attributed to reckless driving.

• He urged motorists to adhere to stipulated speed limits saying the urgency to reach destinations should never compromise one's safety and the safety of others.

Interior PS Raymond Omollo addresses the media on flood mitigation measures on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.
Interior PS Raymond Omollo addresses the media on flood mitigation measures on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.
Image: MINA

The government has called on drivers to exercise caution and responsibility on the roads during this festive season to avert avoidable accidents.

In a statement, Interior PS Raymond Omollo pointed out that the December holidays, which are synonymous with increased travel, unfortunately, witness a surge in road accidents often attributed to reckless driving.

"The safety of every road user is a shared responsibility and the consequences of reckless driving can be severe. We implore all drivers to prioritise safety, adhere to traffic regulations and make responsible choices behind the wheel.

The PS urged motorists to adhere to stipulated speed limits saying the urgency to reach destinations should never compromise one's safety and the safety of others.

"In pursuit of festive cheer, it is paramount to "Arrive Alive and Arrive Safely", he said. 

PS Omollo advised those planning to imbibe alcohol to have designated drivers to take them safely to their destination after celebrations.

He said besides driving under the influence being a danger to self and other road users, the practice carries severe legal consequences.

Omollo further took note of the ongoing El Nino rains which have caused flooding in many places of the country that have cut off some roads.

He said besides that, the ongoing heavy rains can also impede the visibility of drivers.

"Hence, it is crucial to adjust your driving and timings to these conditions," the PS said.

He advised the public to keep abreast with the National El Niño Emergency and Disaster Response Command Centre updates on weather conditions and cut-off roads to enable them to plan their journeys accordingly and avoid unnecessary frustrations.

The PS further asked drivers to be considerate of other road users and demonstrate care and consideration while on the road for the well-being of everyone.

"Let us collectively contribute to safer roads, ensuring that this holiday season remains one of safety for all," he said. 

NTSA data indicates that road carnage fatalities stood at 3,609 for the period between January and October 2023.

The statistics showed that October alone had 1,880 victims with the majority of the accidents occurring on Sundays between between 5 pm and 9 pm.

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