When driving in Kenya, one of the most common situations you’ll face is determining who has the right of way—especially at busy intersections, roundabouts or pedestrian crossings. Understanding this traffic rule is key to smooth and safe driving. In this article we’ll break down the rules of right of way in Kenya, which vehicles have priority and answer some common questions to help you navigate the roads with confidence.
Right of Way in Kenya
In Kenya, like many other countries, right of way rules are designed to maintain order and prevent accidents. The main principle is that some drivers must yield to others to ensure safety and flow of traffic.
Common Right of Way Rules in Kenya
- At Intersections without Traffic Signs or Signals: The vehicle approaching from the right has the right of way. This is often referred to as the “right-hand rule”. It’s a courtesy rule and not a legal traffic rule in Kenya. Drivers must use caution and yield when necessary to avoid a collision.
- Roundabouts: Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way over those entering. Always signal your intentions; use your left indicator when you are about to exit the roundabout to avoid confusion and inform other drivers.
- Pedestrian Crossings: Pedestrians have the right of way at designated pedestrian crossings (zebra crossings). Drivers must stop to allow pedestrians to cross safely. Failure to do so is a traffic offence.
- Emergency Vehicles: Ambulances, fire trucks and police vehicles with flashing lights or sirens have the right of way. Drivers must pull over to the side and stop to allow these vehicles to pass safely.
- Main Roads: Vehicles on main roads (often marked with clear road signs) have the right of way over those coming from side roads or driveways. Drivers entering from a side road must yield to traffic on the main road.
- Turning: A driver turning left or right must yield to oncoming traffic and make sure the lane is clear before making the turn.
Right of Way for Specific Vehicles
While all vehicles must follow right of way rules, there are specific scenarios where one vehicle type requires special consideration:
- Large Trucks: Large vehicles especially heavy trucks have longer braking distance and less maneuverability. Other vehicles should be cautious and give them space. But a truck does not automatically have the right of way and must still follow all traffic rules.
- Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) and Buses: When a PSV or bus is pulling out from a bus stop and indicates its intention to join the traffic, it’s a courtesy for other drivers to slow down and allow it to merge safely. It’s not a right of way but helps to maintain traffic flow and is a common courtesy among drivers.
Common Questions
- Why does a specific car have the right of way? A specific car has the right of way because:
- It is on the main road.
- It is already in the roundabout.
- It is an emergency vehicle.
- Road signs or traffic lights give it priority.
- Which side always has the right of way? In Kenya we drive on the left side of the road. At an intersection with no signs, the general rule is to give way to the traffic on your right. This is not a right of way but a principle of courtesy and defensive driving. Always be prepared to yield to avoid an accident.
Additional Right of Way Tips for Kenyan Drivers
- Be Alert: Always be aware of other vehicles, pedestrians and road conditions. Never assume you have the right of way; always yield when in doubt.
- Use Your Indicators: Whether you’re entering an intersection, merging or turning, always use your indicators to communicate your intentions to other drivers. This is key to road safety.
- Defensive Driving: The best approach is to practice defensive driving. Expect the unexpected and be ready to yield even when you think you have the right of way to avoid an accident.
Conclusion
Understanding and following right of way rules is key to safe and efficient driving in Kenya. By remembering these basics you’ll prevent accidents and traffic jams.
- Vehicles on the main road have the right of way.
- Pedestrians at designated crossings have the right of way.
- Emergency vehicles have the right of way at all times.
- Vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way over those entering.
- At an unsignalized intersection, yield to the traffic on your right as a courtesy but always be prepared to stop.
By being informed and a responsible driver you contribute to a safer road for everyone.
FAQs About Right of Way in Kenya
- Q: Who has the right of way at an intersection with no traffic signs?
- A: The general rule is to give way to the traffic approaching from your right. However this is a principle of courtesy and drivers should always exercise caution and yield to avoid an accident.
- Q: Do pedestrians always have the right of way?
- A: Yes, at designated pedestrian crossings (zebra crossings).
- Q: Do I yield to a bus?
- A: When a bus or PSV signals to pull out of a bus stop, it’s a courtesy to let them in. This is not a right of way but good practice for traffic flow.
- Q: What do I do if an emergency vehicle with flashing lights approaches me?
- A: Pull over to the side of the road and stop.