NTSA sounds alarm on driver fatigue, urges motorists to rest before and during trips

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a warning to motorists over the dangers of driving while fatigued, describing exhaustion as a silent but deadly threat on Kenyan roads.

In a road safety advisory, NTSA cautioned that fatigue significantly reduces a driver’s ability to react quickly, make sound judgments and maintain full awareness of their surroundings.

According to the authority, tired drivers are more likely to drift out of their lanes, misjudge distances, ignore traffic signs or even fall asleep at the wheel, often with fatal consequences.

“Fatigue impairs reaction time, judgment and awareness,” NTSA said, noting that its effects can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The authority added that many serious road crashes, particularly those involving long-distance buses, trucks and private vehicles on highways, are linked to driver exhaustion.

NTSA urged motorists to ensure they get enough sleep before embarking on any journey, especially long trips or nighttime travel. 

Drivers were also advised to plan their journeys carefully, factoring in adequate rest stops and avoiding continuous driving for long hours without breaks.

“Take regular breaks during your trip to stretch, hydrate and refresh,” the authority advised. 

"If you feel tired, do not attempt to push on. Pull over at a safe place and rest.”

The warning comes amid continued efforts by NTSA to reduce road fatalities, which remain a major public safety concern in Kenya. 

Data from previous accident reports have shown that fatigue-related crashes often occur during early morning hours, late at night or after prolonged driving, when alertness is naturally reduced.

NTSA further appealed to transport operators, including bus and truck companies, to enforce strict work-rest schedules for drivers and discourage unrealistic travel timelines that encourage speeding and overworking.

Employers were reminded of their responsibility to prioritise safety over profit by ensuring drivers are well-rested before taking to the road.

Passengers were also encouraged to play a role in promoting road safety by speaking up if they notice a driver appears tired, drowsy or unwell. 

NTSA said reporting such concerns or requesting a stop for rest could help prevent tragic accidents.

“Fatigue kills, but it is preventable,” NTSA emphasised.

“If you are too tired, do not drive. Pull over and rest. A short break can save your life and the lives of other road users.”

The authority reiterated that road safety is a shared responsibility and called on all motorists to make responsible choices that protect themselves and others, stressing that arriving late is always better than not arriving at all.