A total of 4,432 road users have died in accidents since January, NTSA
A total of 4,432 road users have died in accidents between January 1 and December 13 this year, marking a 3.77 per cent increase.
According to data released by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), some 9,315 people were seriously injured while 6,691 were slightly injured.
The number of deaths rose by 161 people from 4,271 in 2021 to 4,432.
The months of January and July have recorded the highest fatalities with 433 and 487 respectively. Between December 1 and 13, NTSA recorded 184 road user deaths.
While addressing the media on Tuesday, December 20, Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen said analysis of past accident reports, shows a high number of road carnage results from avoidable human factors including driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, dangerous overtaking, fatigue, and ignoring traffic lights and signs among others.
“It is clear that all these reasons are outright human error. We are misusing the word accidents. The statistics show people are outrightly becoming reckless and causing deaths,” he said.
The CS called upon Parliament to enact laws that will impose tough penalties for those found guilty of deliberately causing road accidents.
He said, “Parliament should think of actual punishment that ensues to those who cause road accidents particularly when it is found that it is actually reckless actions of individuals.”
The government has imposed a crackdown on motorists flouting traffic rules during this festive season.
According to Interior CS Kithure Kindiki and CS Murkomen, police and NTSA will enforce laws on speeding, overloading of goods and excess passengers, and contravening licensed Public Service Vehicle routes.