Timothy Albright
As the festive cheer spreads its wings across Kenya, the roads brim with excitement and holiday fervor. It’s a time when families reunite, traditions reign, and journeys are embarked upon. Yet, amidst the jubilation, it’s crucial to acknowledge the risks that come hand in hand with the season’s road travels. The festive season unveils a unique showcase of habits among motorists that raise safety concerns. In a recent conversation with Fred Majiwa from St. John Ambulance, insights into these peculiar practices shed light on potential risks that permeate the roads during this celebratory time.
Distracted Driving: The Silent Danger
Phones buzz with messages, tempting us to glance, even for a second. Food and water beckon, distracting our attention from the road ahead. These seemingly innocent acts pose a grave danger. The allure of multitasking behind the wheel clouds our focus, making the road a precarious place.
Exploring New Roads and Old Memories
The allure of new paths or nostalgic routes can enchant us, but they come with their own set of risks. Unfamiliar roads demand heightened attention, while revisiting long-forgotten routes might cloud our judgment, assuming we know every twist and turn. Vigilance is key, regardless of the familiarity factor.
Merry Making on Wheels: The Peril of Substance Use
The celebrations extend to the road for some, indulging in substances that impair judgment. Drugs and narcotics, when combined with driving, create a dangerous cocktail, blurring the line between festivity and catastrophe.
The Need for Speed
The urge to reach a destination quickly often overshadows safety. The phrase, “weka maji ya ugali nitakuwa hapo lunch,” reflects the risky attempt to condense an eight-hour journey into a shorter span. Speeding compromises safety and turns the road into a perilous race track.
Status Displays and Vehicle Choices
For many Kenyans, the festive season becomes an inadvertent stage for showcasing status. Hiring vehicles that one does not understand fully to flaunt prosperity or using vehicles that haven’t ventured beyond a 20km radius for extensive journeys becomes common practice. However, these vehicles might not be adequately serviced, elevating the risk factor on long December trips.
Safety Starts with Preparedness
So, how do we navigate these potential hazards? The answer lies in preparedness and vigilance. Before setting off on any journey, ensure your vehicle undergoes thorough servicing. Check the tires, brakes, and overall functionality to mitigate any potential mechanical issues.
Plan Ahead, Drive Responsibly
Plan your route meticulously. Familiarize yourself with new roads beforehand, and if revisiting old routes, stay attentive to any changes. Avoid distractions; keep phones out of sight. Refrain from indulging in substances before or during your drive.
Patience Trumps Speed
Remember, arriving safely surpasses the need for speed. Allow ample time for your journey, accounting for potential delays. Rushing invites risks; patience ensures a safer travel experience.
Safety First, Always
Above all, prioritize safety. Seat belts should be worn at all times, and every passenger, including children, should have their safety restraints properly secured. Encourage open communication within the vehicle to keep the driver alert and focused.
In Conclusion
As the festive season beckons, let us celebrate responsibly. The joy of the season should not be marred by tragedies on the road. Stay alert, be prepared, and make safety your companion on every journey. Let’s ensure the roads resonate with the melody of celebration, not the sirens of emergencies.
Let’s rewrite the festive road narrative in Kenya. Rather than using the roads as a stage for status displays, let’s make safety the focal point. Ensure your vehicle is road-worthy, maintain focus behind the wheel, and celebrate responsibly. Let this festive season be remembered for joyous gatherings, not tragic accidents.