In a recent traffic accident report, a total of 432 accidents were recorded, with 97 being fatal, 202 were serious, and 133 were minor. Among the 424 victims, 100 lost their lives, while 324 sustained injuries.
The fatalities included 42 motorcycle riders (13 passengers and 29 riders) as well as 40 pedestrians.
On July 16, 2023, at around 8:30 PM, a fatal accident occurred at Muzizi Forest along the Kagadi-Kyenjojo Road in Kagadi District. The collision involved two vehicles, namely the UAD 431Q Trailer and the UAM 426V Toyota Hiace.
Preliminary findings indicate that the UAD 431Q Trailer, traveling from Sudan to Congo along the Kagadi-Kyenjojo route, failed to negotiate a corner at Muzizi Forest, resulting in a collision with the UAM 426V Toyota Hiace.
The impact claimed the lives of 15 individuals on board the Toyota Hiace, including the driver and conductor, while three others sustained injuries. One passenger in the Toyota Hiace and two individuals in the Trailer, including the driver and a turn man, were injured.
The victims were transported to Kagadi Hospital for medical treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were taken to Kagadi Hospital Mortuary.
The causes of these accidents have been attributed to various factors, including:
1. Speeding and exceeding prescribed speed limits
2. Careless overtaking maneuvers
3. Overtaking on blind corners and hills
4. Attempting overtaking maneuvers when faced with multiple vehicles ahead
5. Distracted driving, such as using mobile phones or messaging while operating a vehicle
6. Road obstruction caused by broken-down vehicles
To promote road safety, it is crucial to adhere to the following guidelines:
1. Adhere to speed limits on all roads
2. Exercise caution and patience when overtaking other vehicles
3. Place rectangular reflectors both in front and behind broken-down vehicles to alert other road users
4. Report broken-down vehicles to the nearest police station for proper traffic control and removal
5. Remain vigilant and report any road obstructions, including broken-down vehicles, to the toll-free line 0800199099
Collaborate with private breakdown service providers to promptly clear broken-down vehicles from roads
Maintain constant vigilance, considering Uganda’s role as a transit country for goods vehicles across the Great Lakes region
Respecting all road users is essential, and the Traffic Directorate emphasizes the need for vigilance and responsible behavior while using the road.
To report traffic violations, the public can reach the toll-free number 0800199099.
Efforts are currently underway to promote self-regulation and discipline among road users through sensitization programs conducted by the traffic police. This includes engagement with motorcycle taxi operators, bus operators, as well as conducting a radio and TV programs.
The Inspector Of Vehicles (IOV) has conducted tests on 8,807 riders to ensure their competence on the roads.
Daily operations persist to ensure the safety of all road users.
SP Kananura Michael
Public Relations Officer,
Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety
