Community Policing Officer
Road accidents are a major cause of injuries and fatalities in Namibia, and many of these accidents are caused by drivers failing to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them. By following the guidelines set out in the Road Traffic and Transport Act, Act 22 of 1999 (the Act), drivers can help prevent accidents and keep themselves and others safe on the road.
One of the most important rules for safe driving is to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. This means maintaining enough space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you so you have ample time to react if the vehicle suddenly stops or turns.
In Namibia, the law requires drivers to keep a safe following distance that is appropriate to the speed of the vehicle, as well as traffic and weather conditions. While the law does not provide a specific numerical distance, drivers should always use their judgement and adjust their following distance accordingly.
In addition to maintaining a safe following distance, drivers should also use their turning signals (indicators) when changing lanes or making a turn, which alerts other drivers of their intentions and helps prevent accidents. Failure to do so can result in a fine.
Ensuring your vehicle is in good condition before driving is also crucial for safe driving. This includes checking your brakes, tyres, lights, and signals to ensure they are in proper working order. The law requires drivers to keep their vehicles in a safe and roadworthy condition at all times, and failure to do so can result in a fine or the vehicle being suspended or impounded.
By following these guidelines set out in the Act, drivers in Namibia can help prevent accidents and keep themselves and others safe on the road. Remember to keep a safe following distance, use your turning signals, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition at all times before driving. Together, we can make Namibia’s roads safer for everyone.
For any assistance with crime and traffic-related issues, do not hesitate to call the City Police Call Centre: 061-302 302/2902239 or SMS: 4444