Understand key issues a driver should observe on the road-2

MWANZA: LAST week, Mwanza Regional Traffic Officer (RTO) Mr Sunday Ibrahim, conducted an exclusive interview with our Mwanza-based reporter, NASHON KENNEDY, discussing key issues that drivers should observe while on the road.

Today, he continues with the interview, focusing on the importance of vehicle parking, boarding and alighting from vehicles, driving in areas with livestock and operating on highways.

Question: Commander, what is the legal importance of a driver parking their vehicle properly?

Answer: First, I would like to emphasise that vehicle parking is a legal requirement.

It is governed under Section 71A of the Road Traffic Act. The law requires drivers not to park in the middle of the road, as this obstructs other road users.

A driver must also avoid parking at or near junctions, on corners, on pedestrian walkways, at railway crossings, near traffic lights, or close to pedestrian crossings, as this may compromise safety and lead to accidents.

The law further prohibits parking alongside a stationary vehicle, near or at bus stops, schools, hospital entrances, or any place where the vehicle may obstruct other road users.

A driver is required to park at least five metres away from junctions, bus stops and crossings, in accordance with Section 71A (3) of the Road Traffic Act.

Question: What are the consequences for drivers who fail to follow these parking regulations?

Answer: Thank you for the good question. Some people, especially drivers, tend to underestimate the importance of proper parking. Any driver who fails to comply with these legal requirements commits an offence and, if apprehended, will face legal action.

Question: What procedures should passengers follow when boarding or dropping from a vehicle?

Answer: Passengers should not board or drop down from a moving vehicle, as this may result in accidents and even loss of life. They must exercise caution, especially when disembarking on the right side of the road and should not open the door before ensuring it is safe to do so.

Question: What measures should a driver take in areas with livestock and animals?

Answer: When driving in areas with livestock or animals, a driver must remain cautious at all times, as animals may suddenly appear on the road, especially at corners. The driver should approach animals carefully and stop, if necessary, only proceeding once the road is clear.

Question: What procedures should be followed when carrying loads in a vehicle?

Answer: Those responsible for loading, including the driver, must ensure that the load does not exceed the vehicle’s capacity. Passengers should not be mixed with goods in cargo vehicles, and passengers must not be transported in vehicles not authorised for that purpose.

The driver must load cargo in a manner that ensures safety for both the vehicle and other road users. Speed should be reduced, especially when carrying bulky or protruding loads, and warning signs must be displayed to alert other road users.

Question: What procedures should a driver follow when joining a highway?

Answer: This is a very important question, as some drivers enter highways without observing traffic rules or taking precautions. A driver must be alert and adhere to road safety regulations when joining a highway.

They should not overspeed and must adjust their speed according to road conditions. Drivers should also avoid driving for long hours without rest.

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If fatigued or sleepy, they should pull over and rest. Buses operating for more than eight hours are required to have two drivers so that one can take over when the other is tired.

Drivers must be particularly cautious when approaching towns or residential areas and reduce speed accordingly while observing all traffic regulations.

Question: What should a driver do when drive on a dusty (unpaved) road?

Answer: The driver should maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle ahead and avoid overtaking, as visibility may be poor and could lead to accidents. They should not park on the roadway, at corners, or in narrow sections of the road.

Extra caution is required during rainy conditions, particularly near bridges, rivers, hills, corners, slopes and slippery surfaces.

Drivers must not overtake in prohibited areas and should place warning signs both in front of and behind a broken-down vehicle, and remove it from the road as quickly as possible to prevent accidents.

Question: What key issues should a driver consider regarding vehicle safety?

Answer: Vehicle safety is essential for protecting lives and preventing accidents. It also helps prevent theft of the vehicle, its parts and items inside it.

Question: What specific precautions should a driver take?

Answer: A driver should never leave the ignition key in the vehicle when stepping out and must lock the steering wheel. Windows and doors should always be secured when parking or leaving the vehicle.

Valuables should not be left inside the car and the vehicle should be insured. Drivers should also be cautious of suspicious individuals and report concerns to the nearest police station or relevant authorities.

The fuel tank should be securely closed and children or vulnerable individuals should not be left in a locked, unventilated vehicle, as this may cause harm or even death. Above all, the vehicle should always be parked in a safe place.

Question: What should a driver do in the event of an accident?

Answer: This is a very important question. Any driver involved in an accident whether involving a pedestrian or another vehicle is legally required under Section 57 of the Road Traffic Act to stop and provide assistance, if it is safe to do so. This is not optional; it is a legal obligation.

Question: What if the area of the accident scene is not safe?

Answer: The driver should report the accident to the nearest police station. It is also the driver’s responsibility to provide the police with details such as the vehicle owner’s name, address and vehicle registration card.

This article will continue next week, where RTO Mr Sunday Ibrahim will discuss passengers, their travel needs, passenger capacity on buses, driver’s conduct and key considerations for cyclists as road users.