Legal & Regulatory

NTSA Rules Every Pedestrian in Kenya Must Follow: Everything You Need to Know

woman crossing road

Pedestrian safety on Kenyan roads has become an increasing priority as traffic volume continues to rise. According to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), pedestrians make up a significant portion of road fatalities in Kenya. Ensuring safety for pedestrians requires understanding and following specific road rules. Whether you are walking to work, school, or just running errands, it’s essential to stay informed about the safety protocols set by NTSA to minimize accidents and ensure your well-being.

This article dives deep into the NTSA rules for pedestrians, offering a comprehensive overview that will help you navigate Kenyan roads safely. From crossing at designated points to using reflective materials at night, the following guidelines will ensure that pedestrians can avoid accidents and reduce risks while walking in urban and rural areas.

1. General Pedestrian Guidelines

Use the Walkway Whenever Possible

The first and most important rule for pedestrian safety is the use of the walkway. If a sidewalk or designated pedestrian path is available, always use it to avoid walking close to the road. If no walkway is provided, pedestrians should walk on the right side of the road, facing oncoming traffic. This ensures that you can see approaching vehicles and react appropriately.

  • Do not walk with your back to traffic.
  • Walk in single file on narrow roads to avoid blocking traffic.
  • Maintain a safe distance from the road’s edge.

Be Visible to Other Road Users

Visibility is crucial, especially in low-light conditions. NTSA recommends wearing bright-colored or fluorescent clothing, particularly when walking in areas with poor daylight conditions. During the night, pedestrians should wear reflective materials, as these can make them visible up to three times farther than non-reflective materials.

  • Wear bright or fluorescent clothing during the day.
  • Use reflective gear at night for better visibility.

2. Crossing the Road Safely

Use Designated Pedestrian Crossings

The NTSA emphasizes crossing roads at designated pedestrian crossings, such as zebra crossings, pedestrian underpasses, and footbridges. If no designated crossing is available, pedestrians should select a safe spot where they can clearly see all directions and where drivers can see them.

  • Never cross the road diagonally.
  • Cross at intersections when possible, and avoid sharp bends.

Steps for Safe Crossing

To cross the road safely, follow the simple steps outlined below:

  1. Look right, look left, and then look right again to ensure no vehicles are approaching.
  2. Listen for any traffic that might not be visible.
  3. Wait for a clear gap in traffic.
  4. Cross straight across the road. Never run, as this reduces your ability to react to sudden changes.
  5. Keep an eye out for cyclists or motorcyclists who may be weaving through traffic.

At Junctions and Intersections

  • Do not cross at junctions or intersections if it’s unsafe.
  • Always cross away from junctions so that drivers can see you better.
  • If you’ve started crossing and traffic wants to turn into the road, they should give you way.

3. Dealing with Barriers and Parked Vehicles

Pedestrian Safety Barriers

Where there are pedestrian safety barriers, always cross at designated gaps. Do not attempt to climb over barriers or cross between them and the road. These barriers are installed to reduce accidents, and crossing through gaps ensures pedestrian safety.

  • Only cross at the designated gaps.
  • Do not climb over safety barriers.

Crossing Between Parked Vehicles

If you must cross between parked vehicles, always use the outside edges of the vehicles as if they were the kerb. Make sure that you can see in both directions and ensure that the traffic can also see you clearly.

  • Stop and check for approaching vehicles before crossing.
  • Never cross in front of or behind a vehicle with its engine running.

4. Avoiding Hazards from Reversing Vehicles

Reversing vehicles pose a significant risk to pedestrians. Always ensure that a vehicle is not reversing before crossing behind it. In many cases, the driver may not be able to see you.

  • Never cross behind a reversing vehicle.
  • Ensure the vehicle has fully stopped before proceeding.

5. Nighttime Pedestrian Safety

Visibility at Night

Walking at night can be hazardous, especially if you are not visible to drivers. NTSA recommends wearing reflective gear, especially when there are no pedestrian crossings nearby. Choose locations near streetlights to ensure that drivers can see you clearly.

  • Use reflective clothing and accessories to enhance visibility at night.
  • Avoid walking in dark areas where you might not be seen.

6. Avoid Distractions While Walking

Stay Focused on the Road

Distractions, such as using mobile phones, headphones, or other gadgets while walking, significantly increase the risk of accidents. NTSA advises pedestrians to stay alert and avoid using mobile devices while crossing the road.

  • Do not use mobile phones or other devices while crossing.
  • Stay alert to your surroundings at all times.

7. Crossing at Traffic Lights and Railway Crossings

At Traffic Lights

Pedestrians should only cross the road when the green pedestrian signal is on. If no pedestrian signal is provided, be extra cautious and make sure that no vehicles are moving in your direction.

  • Wait for the green pedestrian signal before crossing.
  • Avoid crossing when traffic lights show a red signal for pedestrians.

At Railway Crossings

At railway crossings, it is vital to use designated pedestrian crossings. Never attempt to cross when a train is approaching or leaving.

  • Always use the designated crossing areas.
  • Wait for the train to pass before crossing the tracks.

8. Boarding and Alighting from Vehicles

Safe Boarding and Alighting

Pedestrians should always board or alight from vehicles only when the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Watch for other vehicles or road users when getting off, and ensure that the area is clear.

  • Board or alight only when the vehicle has stopped.
  • Wait for vehicles to move off before crossing the road.

9. Adherence to Pedestrian Crossings Rules

Pedestrians must give traffic plenty of time to stop at designated crossings before crossing the road. If traffic is approaching at high speed, wait until it is safe. Remember, traffic does not stop until you step onto the crossing.

  • Ensure that traffic has fully stopped before crossing.
  • Cross only at safe, designated crossings.

Pedestrian Safety in Kenya: A Shared Responsibility

Pedestrian safety is not just the responsibility of pedestrians but also that of drivers, authorities, and road safety organizations. Pedestrians must be mindful of the risks and adhere to the rules for their safety. In turn, drivers must respect pedestrian crossings and avoid speeding or reckless driving. As the government continues to improve infrastructure, ensuring pedestrian safety through education and awareness remains crucial.

By following the NTSA pedestrian rules, you can significantly reduce the risks of accidents. Share this information with your family, friends, and colleagues to help spread awareness about pedestrian safety. Together, we can make Kenyan roads safer for everyone.