Uganda Traffic Police has registered an increase in the traffic road accidents of 451 cases compared to 222 in the previous week.

This was revealed during the security brief on Monday, July 31, 2023, at the Police Headquarters in Naguru, Kampala.

According to ASP Michael Kananura, the Spokesperson of the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, last week 451 accidents were registered, where 77 were fatal, 219 were serious and 155 were minor.

Kananura said that according to the preliminary investigation, the impatience by majority of the road users is the main contributing factor in the collisions. He urged passengers to wear seat belts.

“Most of the road users are impatient. They do not wait for pedestrians to cross, and they exhibit disrespect for other users, which is very dangerous. Every road user must wear a seat belt. They help prevent serious injuries in case of crashes,” Kananura said.

He noted that, the directorate had operations targeting Dangerous Mechanical Conditions (DMCs), adding that 1,287 vehicles had been deregistered as a result and the operation still continue.

“All around the country, boda-boda operations are being conducted against those who lack permits, those transporting more than one passenger, riding motorcycles without helmets and reflective jackets,” Kananura said.

However, Kananura emphasized that everyone who received a fine from police must pay it within 28 days or they will be asked to pay an additional 50% fee after this time period.

The directorate in response to road accidents has carried out a number of sensitization for the month of July, through visiting 21 Television stations, conducting 79 radio programs and 189 physical engagements across the country.