Self driving Tips Uganda for driving in Uganda is a thrilling task or activity, even more pleasurable when you opt for self driving in Uganda. Be it the hustle and bustle of the city centers or the serene and ragged landscapes in the rural areas, a self drive in Uganda offers you a chance to enjoy all the little pleasures the pearl of Africa offers at your own pace. Nonetheless driving carelessly could be tragic and dangerous. Whether you are going for a quick drive around the city or taking a self drive safari around Uganda, it is always best to drive safely. That is why we would like to share with you some tips on how to increase your safety on Ugandan roads.
KEEP LEFT
Uganda, unlike many other countries, drives on the left side, thus right hand drive vehicles are the most suitable to drive. If you do not have such a vehicle, you should not be worried as you can affordably rent a car in Uganda that is well adapted for use on left hand drive roads. Such cars will make it easier to see what is ahead of you and to avoid on coming traffic. but you should always remember to keep left while driving in Uganda. However, if you are on a self drive safari upcountry, it will be hardly necessary as there will hardly be any cars on the road.
SPEED LIMITS
One of the key aspects of safe driving is speed. You should always be careful not to over speed as this could easily lead to an accident which could be fatal. As you are driving, look out for any road signs as they can always guide you on what to expect ahead, helping you drive more carefully. Most importantly, look out for speed limit signs to regulate your speed. In addition to this, there is traffic police along the road to ensure traffic rules and regulations are adhered to.
WEAR YOUR SEATBELT
Seatbelts are designed to keep you in your seat and make sure you are not hurled through the windshield incase of an accident. That is why it is always in your best interest to wear one. As much as you may be a great driver, you cannot account for the actions of other drivers or pedestrians and thats why it is safer to wear a seatbelt. Inevitably, wearing a seatbelt will increase your chances of survival greatly in case you get involved in an accident when you hire and drive a car in uganda.
CHECK YOUR CAR THOROUGHLY
Before you embark on a journey, make it a point to always check you car’s condition and ensure its safe for driving. Things you should check before you set off include tyre pressure, oil levels, turn signals and brakes etc. Failure of any of the above can result in car failure or a mishap on the road which is a risk you shouldn’t take as it endangers your life. Routine maintenance and checking of your car can save you from the hustles of breakdowns which can end up being costly.
DONT DRINK AND DRIVE
If you plan on driving, do not drink any alcohol or take any drugs. Mood altering substances like alcohol can significantly impair your judgement and your senses which in turn makes you a reckless driver. Further more, driving in Uganda under the influence of alchol is illegal and punishable by law. If you can’t avoid drinking, please make sure you have a designated driver who is sober or find a safe place to rest before you can embark on the task of driving once more.
EXHAUSTION
It is usually not a good idea hiring a car for self drive or more so driving in Uganda while fatigued or exhausted. Make sure you get plenty of rest if you know you have a long journey ahead. Drivers who sleep or dose off while behind the wheels tend to cause a lot of unrest which could have been avoided if they were attentive and wide awake. In case you have a long trip and need to make pit-stops, you could opt to rent a car and quality camping gear. This will help you get a comfortable rest anywhere you wish without rushing. A comfortable rest will help you get behind the wheel fresher and more focused.
FOCUS
As a matter of fact, driving in Uganda necessitates you to focus on the road and not get distracted by things such as phone calls, text messages, serious conversations, food or events happening on the roadside. Similarly, dont try to wear make-up or put on clothes while driving. All the above activities can distract you from watching the road ahead as you drive which could lead to an accident.