As Easter approaches, many Kenyans are gearing up for road trips—whether it’s a getaway to the countryside, a visit to relatives, or a short holiday escape. But before you load up the car and hit the road, it’s essential to make sure your vehicle is in good shape and that you’re prepared for the drive ahead.
With increased traffic during holiday seasons, road safety becomes even more critical. Here’s a practical Vehicle Checklist and some vital safety tips to help you avoid trouble on the road and reach your destination safely.
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Easter Holiday Vehicle Checklist
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Tyres — Check the pressure and tread depth and ensure there are no cracks or bulges. Don’t forget the spare!
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Oil Level – Top it up or change it if due. Clean oil keeps your engine running smoothly.
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Coolant – Prevent overheating by ensuring coolant levels are correct and there are no leaks.
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Brakes – Listen for any grinding sounds and ensure they respond quickly and firmly.
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Lights – Test headlights, brake lights, indicators, and hazard lights. Replace any faulty bulbs.
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Wipers & Washer Fluid – Make sure your wiper blades clear the windscreen effectively and that your washer fluid is full.
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Battery – Watch out for slow starts or dim lights. If it’s more than two years old, have it tested.
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Spare Tyre & Tools – Confirm that your spare is inflated and that you have a jack, wheel brace, and other tools.
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Emergency Kit – Equip your car with jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a reflective warning triangle.
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Fuel – Fill up before your trip or plan fuel stops, especially if traveling to remote areas.
Questions you should ask your mechanic
Drive Safe: Road Safety Tips for Kenyan Highways
With busy roads and unpredictable conditions, here are key precautions every driver should follow:
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Buckle Up – Ensure all passengers wear seatbelts at all times.
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Avoid Speeding – Speed limits are there for a reason. Slow down, especially in towns, near schools, and at sharp bends.
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Rest & Refresh – Fatigue is dangerous. Take breaks every two hours during long drives.
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Avoid Alcohol – Don’t drink and drive. Even a small amount of alcohol can impair judgment.
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Observe Weather Conditions – Be cautious in rainy weather; slippery roads and poor visibility increase risk.
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Watch for Pedestrians & Motorcyclists – Always slow down in populated areas and give right of way where appropriate.
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Keep Distance – Maintain a safe following distance, especially on highways.
List of fines issued to dangerous matatu swerving on highway
Be Aware: Known Accident Black Spots in Kenya
Some areas in Kenya have higher accident rates due to poor visibility, sharp bends, or speeding. Exercise extra caution in these areas:
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Salgaa (Nakuru–Eldoret Highway) – Infamous for head-on collisions and speeding.
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Sagana–Makutano (Embu–Meru Highway) – Sharp bends and overtaking-related accidents are common.
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Sachangwan (Nakuru–Kericho Road) – A steep descent often linked to brake failure in heavy vehicles.
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Mlolongo and Syokimau (Mombasa Road) – Busy intersections and poor pedestrian discipline.
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Lanet & Gilgil Areas (Nakuru County) – High traffic volumes and reckless overtaking.
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Maungu–Voi (Mombasa–Nairobi Highway) – Speeding and fatigue-related accidents on long-distance drives.
Take extra care when approaching these zones. Obey signage, reduce speed, and stay alert.
Final Word
Whether your journey is short or long, safety should always come first. A few minutes spent checking your vehicle and preparing for the road can help you avoid unnecessary stress—or worse, an accident.
From all of us at Bizna Kenya, we wish you a safe, smooth, and joyful Easter holiday! Drive safe, and keep the good vibes rolling.
