Approximately 3,924 Kenyans have lost their lives as a result of road traffic crashes for a period between January 1 to October 30, 2022, an increase of 5.11 per cent of deaths recorded during the same period in 2021.
In statistical data released by the National Transport and Safety Authority(NTSA), the majority of road traffic deaths are among vulnerable road users: pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
During the aforementioned period, pedestrians make up at least 36 per cent of the casualties with a total of 1,413 followed by motorcyclists at 1,046.
The fatalities of pedestrians increased by 9.2 per cent increase from last year’s 1293 while that of motorcyclists increased by 1.16 per cent (12).
Further, the government agency stated that passengers recorded the highest jump in fatalities by 39.58 per cent from 600 in 2021 to 693 this year.
However, the number of pillion passengers dropped marginally by 18.8 per cent from 371 in 2021 to 363 over the period under review.
Similarly, fatalities involving pedal cyclists decreased by 25 per cent to 53 from 71 deaths reported last year.
Risky hours
At the same time, NTSAv revealed that Friday to Sunday, between 5.00 pm and 10.00 pm have been peak days for fatal accidents this year.
The agency said most recorded accidents occurred at 8.00 p.m. the rush hour when there is reduced enforcement and high volumes of traffic and pedestrians on the road.
Other risk factors include distracted driving, driving under the influence, high speeds and pedestrians crossing at non-designated or unsafe areas as well as poor lighting at pedestrian crossing points and major highways.
