Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Every time you get behind the wheel, you carry the responsibility of protecting not just yourself, but also your passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. In Tanzania, road accidents are one of the major causes of injuries and loss of lives, but many of them can be prevented if drivers follow simple safety practices.
At AKI, we care about your journey and encourage all our clients to drive responsibly. Here are important road safety tips to help you enjoy safe and stress-free trips:
Seatbelts are the first line of defense in case of an accident. Whether you are the driver or a passenger, always buckle up before the car moves. Research shows that seatbelts reduce the risk of serious injury by more than half.
Speeding is one of the main causes of road accidents. Always respect the speed limits—whether you are driving in busy cities like Dar es Salaam, on highways, or in rural areas. Driving within the limit gives you better control of the car and more time to react to unexpected situations.
Alcohol and drugs reduce your concentration, reaction time, and decision-making ability. Driving under the influence puts everyone’s life in danger. If you plan to drink, always arrange for a sober driver or alternative transport.
Long journeys can be tiring. Fatigue slows your reaction and increases the risk of accidents. Rest well before your trip, take breaks every 2–3 hours, and avoid night driving when possible. If you feel sleepy, stop and rest—it’s better to arrive late than never.
Traffic laws are designed to keep everyone safe. Always follow road signs, traffic lights, and instructions from traffic police. Overtaking carelessly, ignoring stop signs, or running red lights can cause deadly accidents.
Keep enough space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This gives you time to brake safely if the car ahead stops suddenly. A simple rule is the “three-second rule”—you should be at least three seconds behind the car in front.
A well-maintained car is a safe car. Before starting your journey, check your brakes, lights, tires, and fuel. At AKI, we ensure all our vehicles are regularly serviced and roadworthy, giving you peace of mind during your trip.
Using your phone, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving can take your eyes off the road. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to accidents. Stay focused, and if you must use your phone, pull over safely first.
Roads are shared by drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Respect their space, use indicators when turning, and be extra careful in busy areas, school zones, and near bus stops.
Adjust your driving depending on the weather and road conditions. During rain, reduce speed and keep headlights on. On rough or dusty roads, drive carefully to avoid skidding or damaging the vehicle.
Safe driving is not just about following rules—it’s about protecting lives. Every journey should begin and end with safety in mind. By wearing seatbelts, respecting speed limits, staying alert, and keeping your vehicle in good condition, you greatly reduce the risk of accidents.