This Sunday, November 16, will be the World Day of Remembrance for road traffic victims. The day that falls on every third Sunday of November is in commemoration of victims of road traffic injuries. Just last month, at least 46 people were confirmed dead and several others injured following a four-car crash on the Kampala-Gulu Highway.
The crash at Asili farm in Kitaleba village in Kiryandongo District involved two buses, a lorry, and a Toyota Land Cruiser. Overtaking which led to swerving from the wrong lane and loss of control, were some of the causes of this particular crash. However, this is only one of numerous road crashes that have happened, leaving many dead and others injured. According to the Uganda Police Force annual crime report 2024, police recorded 25,107 road traffic crashes in 2024, reflecting a 6.4 percent increase from 2023.
There were 25,808 casualties in 2024, compared to 24,728 the previous year, marking a 4.4 percent rise. Sundays saw the most accidents in 2024 (3,790), followed by Saturdays (3,765) and Mondays (3,6860). Collisions with pedestrians accounted for 19.5 percent of all road crashes. Rear-end collisions and side swipes made up 16.2 percent and 17.7 percent respectively, head-on collisions and angle crashes constituted 13 percent and 10.5 percent.
The report also revealed that the highest number of fatalities was recorded in December. The number of those who died was 5,144, 17,013 were seriously injured, and 3,651 were slightly injured. Some of the common causes mentioned in the report include careless overtaking and speeding, exceeding prescribed speed limits, following too closely, dangerous vehicle condition, careless pedestrians, sudden turns and entrance, violation of traffic regulations, stationary vehicles on high ways, etc.
The police report is quite conclusive, but reading it and simply glossing over it will not change anything in regard to road safety. These statistics help to guide and push forward the agenda of road safety. Road safety is every road user’s responsibility. As we approach the end of the year, which is usually marked with higher numbers of crashes, we implore all road users to maintain the utmost level of discipline and maturity on the road. Respect all road users.
Black spots should be identified, and the necessary precautions taken to lessen their risk. Road users must be adequately warned and alerted to any ongoing roadworks, and barriers placed on the roads must be visible for all to see at any time of day or night. Narrow roads, potholes, and unmarked, unlit roads do not help the cause. Some effort should be given to improving that state of affairs. Continuous road safety awareness and sensitisation are key.