New traffic rules set to take effect on Saturday

The scene of an accident at Salgaa on the Nakuru-Eldoret highway involving three trailers and two matatus on May 29, 2012. Come December 1, those found overlapping, speeding, careless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol will be heavily punished in regulations that authorities say are meant to be a deterrent to those bent on breaking traffic regulations. Photo|FILE

What you need to know:

  • Transport minister Amos Kimunya gazetted December 1 as the commencement date for the new traffic regulations.
  • This means come December 1, those found overlapping, speeding, careless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol will be heavily punished in regulations that authorities say are meant to be a deterrent to those bent on breaking traffic regulations.
  • Other punishable breaches are failure to adhere to uniform and badges directive for PSV operators and exceeding the one-passenger requirement for motorcycle operators.

Motorists be warned. Police will from this Saturday begin enforcing the new tough traffic rules to curb road carnage.

Transport minister Amos Kimunya gazetted December 1 as the commencement date for the new traffic regulations.

This means come December 1, those found overlapping, speeding, careless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol will be heavily punished in regulations that authorities say are meant to be a deterrent to those bent on breaking traffic regulations.

Other punishable breaches are failure to adhere to uniform and badges directive for PSV operators and exceeding the one-passenger requirement for motorcycle operators.

Riders will also be obligated to have reflective vests and helmets, including one for the passenger. Failure to comply with this rule will attract Sh10,000 fine or 12 months in prison in default.

According to the Traffic Amendment Act 2012, if you are not the designated driver of a particular public service vehicle, do not drive it. (READ: Tough traffic rules to curb carnage)

The new traffic laws prohibit the practice that is common among matatu drivers, many of who leave their vehicles to others as they run other errands.

The Act says those found engaging in this practice will be liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years or a fine not exceeding Sh500,000.

Stiffer fines

The Transport Ministry says stiffer fines, increased education for road users and road safety facilities will restore order on Kenyan roads.

In a statement, the ministry said it had commenced an intense awareness campaign targeting road users countrywide.

Matatu and commercial vehicle drivers will be required to undergo physical fitness, eye and hearing tests after every three years to qualify for renewal of driving licences.

All drivers will be subjected to a demerit points system for traffic offences committed.