Road Crossing Safety in Uganda
Whether it is a pedestrian crossing or railway crossing, drivers need to take care to ensure their safety, the safety of their passengers, and fellow motorists who ride from all corners of the streets. Here are some usefull tips that pedestrians and drivers should know about safe road crossing in Uganda;
Be Extra Vigilant near Pedestrian Crossings.
When approaching a pedestrian crossing, always be vigilant! Check the surroundings to ensure no one is going to simply walk straight out. While pedestrians do have right of way, we all need to work together to ensure everyone stays safe. Pedestrians should always make sure drivers have seen them and are slowing down to a stop to allow them to cross. Drivers need to keep a look out when approaching a crossing to determine if a pedestrian is present.
Do not assume the actions of others. Not only Kids but also adults can be unpredictable so please take care around built up areas, school zones especially after school hours, and during holiday times, major towns, and market lanes.
Obey the Railway Crossing Signals
upon approaching a railway crossing, always stop if the red lights are flashing or if the gates are down. Do not try to manoeuvre around down railway crossing gates because you are time bad.
If it is safe to cross but the traffic ahead is congested or stopped, do not proceed forward if it means you will be positioned on the railway line always keep the tracks clear.
Railway Crossings Without Warning Lights
Common sense needs to prevail when approaching a railway crossing that is absent of any warning lights or signals. Obey signage, be sensible with your decision making, and be extra observant to your surroundings.
Trains may often be closer than you think or may be travelling at a distance faster than what you judge.
Drivers Advice
According to Self Drive East Africa, zebra crossing points and pedestrian walk ways are less respected by drivers in most areas of Uganda. It is common to find accidents happening at points marked for pedestrians to cross. While reaching major towns, it is important to reduce speed given that you can encounter pedestrians crossing at any point.
Be cautious about your fellow drivers. Some drivers are reckless and do not respect pedestrian crossing areas. If you follow their driving traits, you can easily get into trouble. Do not imagine every driver is experienced with road usage.
Others are drunk, others learners so you have to be wise enough to handle the road atmospheres. This is very disturbing especially in the morning rush hours , lunch time and even in the evenings when most Ugandans are retiring home .Just do not fight for the way even when in traffic jam . Be calm and follow the order.