ROAD TRAFFIC POLICIES IN UGANDA TODAY

ROAD TRAFFIC POLICIES IN UGANDA TODAY

Driving in Uganda was designed from the British Traffic model, those who come from countries with the British model find it simpler to drive in Uganda than travellers who use a different model. Nonetheless, after being briefed by an experienced driver in Uganda, most of the travellers get familiar with driving around Uganda and heed to the traffic policies.

Below are the popular traffic policies in Uganda on and off the road.

Driving in Uganda is done on the left side of the road.

Persons over the age of 18 years are eligible to drive and must possess a valid driver’s license. A foreign driver’s license is valid for only three months.

No car is allowed on the roads of Uganda without the relevant certificates, for example, third party insurance for Ugandan vehicles and Comesa for foreign vehicles.

The speed limit is 50km/hr. on town roads and 80km/hr. on highway roads. There are also some cases where the driver has to go low or above the speed limit aforementioned and this is indicated on the road signs beside the roads.

Every occupant of the car must have a seat belt on especially the driver and the co-driver. Failure to do so, you’re considered an offender and a fine will be given.

Overtaking in the corner is highly condemned. It is an offence once caught. Overtaking in corners is one of the main causes of road accidents in Uganda.

Overtaking should only be done where indicated on the road (with the dotted line). It should always be done on the right side of the road.

Driving on the shoulder of the road is prohibited.

Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is prohibited. It is such a criminal offence once caught.

All road signs and radar must be respected at all times.

When the traffic officer stops while driving, you must obey.

DRIVING OFF THE ROAD ESPECIALLY IN THE NATIONAL PARKS

Travellers are advised to use a 4×4 vehicle while off-road. This is because of the raggedness, sloppiness and muddy nature of the roads.

The speed limit of 40km/hr. or less is advised while driving in the national parks and other off-road areas

Wildlife and nature are given first priority in the national park, once you knock any animal down, you are given a premium fine or even face jail.

Do not go off track while driving in the national parks. There are well-demarcated roads for game drives.