Mec Monday: How to handle unruly drivers on the roads

It’s no secret that driving on our Kenyan roads is nothing short of the Hunger Games. Every man for themselves and God for us all. The meagre of driving can give even the most experienced drivers heartache. Here are some ways to help you handle unruly drivers:

1.Let them pass

The rule of you having priority of a lane is not recognized on our roads. If you try to join a lane or a road and a driver has refused you access, let them pass. It’s better to have them go than fighting them. It will only take a few seconds, let them go instead of the causing damage to your car.

2. Indicators don’t work

It puzzles me how individuals don’t use their indicators to signal where they are going. And if they do use the indicator, they’ll go in the opposite direction. For your own safety just slow down when you see someone turn on their indicator in front of you.

The 'international use' of hands to indicate the direction is the most common. So look out for an arm signalling instead of the actual indicator.

3. Be ready to brake, ALWAYS!

Your foot should be inches away from the brake pedals, always. Just when you think all is safe, some nutcase pulls a stunt on you and you have to hit emergency brakes. It’s no wonder we have to change our brake pads so often.

4. You will be insulted

Be it by honking or actual insults, a driver will attack you. The best thing you can do is just to ignore them and continue onto your destination. Some even go as far as flashing the bird at you and yet the mistake was theirs. Don’t let such acts mess your spirit, let them go ahead with whatever devil is occupying their souls.

5. Nduthi gang

The number of motorcycles has increased greatly in the recent past. Unfortunately, there is no designated lanes for the two wheelers and they have to share the roads with other vehicles.

Now, some of the riders are beyond unruly and it’s like they are always looking for a fight. They enter your lane and move slowly all for the sole purposes of pissing you off. Moreover, other’s hit your car and blame you so that it can cause a scene and you give them money. When you spot a motorcycle rider, give him room to manoeuvre his bike and move away from you.

There you have it folks, but the best thing you can do it to remain cool when you meet these insane drivers.