September 2019

10 Bad Driving Habits to Avoid in Rwanda

Renting a car in Rwanda is by far the best way to embark on a road trip. Every car rental agency has got its set terms and conditions or rather policies that every traveler should observe. However, most drivers including self-drive travelers have a tendency of insisting on some of the awful habits. For starters, self drive in Rwanda on a road trip is very easy and exciting although other road users tend to make everything seem difficult due to their bad driving habits.

At times, you will get surprised to see another car behind you and the person has not even indicated to you and on highways, most people simply start racing and they will want to overtake at a corner. To embark on a self-drive car hire Rwanda tour is more exciting, memorable but you have to be very keen while driving as most drivers tend to be reckless on the road.

Below are some of the risky things you need to avoid while on road trip in Uganda

Driving when you are drunk

Driving under influence of alcohol has become a common practice by road users today yet this puts you at risk. This doesn’t only affect your ability to react or make decisions but also may cost you based on road rules in Rwanda. At times, most solo travelers on self-drive trip in Rwanda think they are in a holiday and so drinking is a must do thing something that is very wrong. It is the worst thing anyone can think of and to be on safer side, you can do so at your respective lodge or hotel.

Ignoring traffic signs

Once someone hits the road, issues of traffic signs are totally ignored yet these play a significant role especially for your safety on road.

Not paying attention

Always be attentive and have a listening ear while on road trip in Rwanda. Make sure that you cross check your mirrors and any blind spots, traffic a head and around you. Be mindful of the pot holes when driving and ensure that you are never distracted in anyway.

Disregarding weather and road conditions

Before you embark on road trip in Rwanda be keen on weather and road conditions. In most cases, some weather conditions require you to drive slowly.

Not making the best use of indicators

Always remember the use of indicators or do not make the best use of them when it is already too late. Indicators are essential to make alert to other drivers.

Use of phones while driving

Everyone loves phones but do not get distracted by phone calls, texting. Put your full attention on your road trip and you will have the best of it.

Not putting on seat belts

To most road users, wearing a seat belt is at times looked at as crime but it is not. Wearing a seat belt is for your own safety on the road. Before you set off, remember to be on your seat belts.

Putting on high heel

This is a common vice with women but it is dangerous when you driving.  The best is for you to have flat shoes or else simply relax and let someone else to take on the wheel.

Do not over speed

Over speeding is against traffic laws of Rwanda and major cause of road accidents. Be mindful of the driving speed sign posts along the road and other road users.

Traffic Tips for Driving in Rwanda

Rwanda is relatively safe compared to other countries. Driving in Rwanda is absolutely an exciting experience but requires some braveness while you are behind the wheels. For starters, higher chances are that you will face challenge driving in Rwanda’s roads as most of them are not yet to the standards of say United States or England. To get the best of your self drive experience in Rwanda, take a look at significant road safety rules and traffic tips for driving.

Driving in Rwanda always requires you to keep left and speed limit in town areas shouldn’t be over 40kms per hour and 60kms per hour in provinces.

Plastics are not tolerated, therefore do not dump rubbish anyhow while driving in Rwanda or else you will be penalized. The government of Rwanda banned all non-degradable polyethylene plastic bags in 2008.

Be prepared to drive along several terrains in Rwanda. Driving in Rwanda is amazing since most of its routes have been paved.

To drive in Rwanda, you should be at least 18 years that is for categories A and B and 20 for categories C, D, E and F.

Make sure that you have a valid driver license or international driving permit, car registration documents as well as car insurance certificates.

Do not drive at night in Rwanda-this is dangerous.

Do not drive when you are drunk. The legal blood alcohol level in Rwanda is 0.08 percent and random breath testing is done by police.

Road Safety Rules and Regulations in Rwanda

Before you embark on a self-drive tour or guided tour, be aware of traffic rules to avoid being taken by surprise by presence of traffic officers. Road safety in Rwanda is governed by the traffic and road safety Act.

Drivers should keep left when driving and if you are not familiar with road rules please rent a car and driver and still enjoy your road trip at your own pace.

The speed limit in town areas is 40kms per hour and 60kms per hour in provinces.

To drive in Rwanda, you need a valid local or international driving permit/license.

Driving Tips before starting a Car Hire

• Check out the blinkers for proper operation.
• Cross check if the tyres are inflated well.
• Prior driving a rental car please do some simple safety check
• Turn on the lights and move around to ascertain if all lights are working.
• When you enter into the car please adjust all mirrors and seats prior starting it.

Driving Tips while your Rental Car is moving

• Turn your head to check no one is coming prior joining the road.
• Take note of traffic lights-green color is always for you to look left and right, straight then left once more prior proceeding.
• Always be on seat belts and put on your seat belt before starting your car
• Make sure that the headlights are on and the car is visible 4 times the distance with its headlights on
• Please indicate in case you need to make a stopover.
• Keep within driving speed limit.