Kenya Learner Driver Handbook
Kenya Learner Driver Handbook
Kenya Learner Driver Handbook
1
KENYA LEARNER DRIVER HANDBOOK
For
Copyright © 2016
Compiled by NTSA
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ntsa.go.ke
Illustrations by
Simon Ndonye
Published by
Impact Africa
CONTENTS
FOREWORD....................................................................................................5
UNIT 7: OBSERVATION..................................................................................31
It is important for every learner to get adequate training and practice before
being issued with a rider’s licence. You can become a safe rider through
acquiring the necessary skills and understanding of the road environment, by
always being alert and defensive and by accepting that the prime responsibility
for your safety on the road is yours.
This book will help learners prepare for the rider licence exam and also enable
experienced riders to refresh their skills from time to time.
NTSA
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UNIT 1: INTRODUCTION TO DRIVING
Motor vehicles are an important part of our day-to-day living and provide
a means for people and goods to be transported from one location to another.
The goal of driver training is ensure that you, as the driver, are equipped with
the right knowledge of how to handle your vehicle and how to act appropriately
when using the road.
Most trafic accidents are caused by human error, however this can be easily
prevented when the driver is adequately prepared for the trafic situation. This
safe and eficient transport services for goods and for passengers.
training also ensures that you are prepared with the necessary skills to provide
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UNIT 2: FUNDAMENTAL DRIVING RULES
The Trafic Act sets out the laws that govern the use of roads and the expected
The Traffic Act
conduct of road users. It also includes some of the penalties and ines for road
users who do not abide by these laws.
Highway Code
The Highway Code is a set of information, advice, guides and mandatory
rules for all road users in Kenya. It provides guidelines for animal, pedestrians,
cyclists and motorcyclists. The purpose of the Highway Code is to promote
safety, responsible behaviour and courtesy at all times.
It is your responsibility as a road user to read the Trafic Act and Highway Code
Below are some of the trafic regulations that can also be found in the Trafic Act
and the Highway Code:
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Give right-of-way for speciic vehicles, road users or in speciic
situations such as
Pedestrian range
• You should not ride or drive in areas of the road designated for
pedestrians and cyclists
• There are two types of trafic signals; hand signals and light signals
• Trafic signs are used to guide, provide information and warn all road
users. Most signs fall within three broad categories although there are
exceptions. These are
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UNIT 3: MODEL TOWN
simpliied representation used to explain the types of roads found in major towns
The model town board is an example of a road network on a board. It is a
The model town board has several features. These features are:
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A. One Way Trafic Road (Dual Carriage Way)
• This is a road where all trafic vehicles move in one direction. A road
with white continuous or broken lines dividing the lanes into equal parts
• A white continuous line means no changing lanes or overtaking
• A white dotted or broken lines means you can overtake or change
Land or ield refers to the green part on the left side of the road.
lanes if the road is clear/safe
(Crossing Allowed)
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Roundabout
This is a meeting point of trafic where more than two roads meet at a
C.
•
point
• The function of a roundabout is to facilitate the movement of vehicles in
different directions without any obstruction or collision
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D. Parking zones
The model town board has two types of parking:
i. Angle/ample/controlled parking zone.
ii. Flush/parallel/uncontrolled parking zone.
Flush parking: This kind of parking is found on the left side of road in the
direction of trafic. It has no security thus it is an uncontrolled parking zone. The
rules for lush parking are:
i. All types of vehicles except tractors and trailers can park here.
ii. It has an entry but you must leave space for the exit.
iii. Park from the farthest end.
iv. Park by reverse.
v. Leave/exit by forward (direct) driving.
Stop Sign
It is a red in colour and is an eight-sided igure (octagon) with white letters.
E.
Vehicles are required to slow down or stop if necessary and then only proceed if
it is safe.
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Directions on a four-lane road when approaching a roundabout
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UNIT 4: HUMAN FACTORS IN TRAFFIC
Observation
When using the road, pay attention to your surroundings and stay alert whether
you are walking, cycling, riding or driving a motor vehicle. Most accidents can
be avoided when road users stay attentive.
is more likely to make better judgment if they are in good health. The following
times you make choices that will not interfere with your wellbeing. Any road user
standard, ensure that you wear them before starting any journey
• Check your eyes. If you need spectacles to meet the required eyesight
Fatigue
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The following may cause fatigue:
• Insuficient sleep or rest
• An extended length of time performing the same task
• Sleep disorders and other illnesses
• Driving at the time of day when you are usually resting or sleeping e.g.
night driving, early morning driving
• Avoid driving or riding your motorcycle at night. This is when you are
likely to feel sleepy
• If you feel tired, stop at a safe place and rest
Distractions
Distractions in driving can be described as anything that reduces your ability to
respond as quickly as you should during an emergency. For this reasons some
of these ordinary activities are prohibited for drivers.
Radio
• It is ine to listen to the radio while driving but refrain from adjusting the
volume, changing CDs or Mp3’s while driving.
Grooming, smoking, and eating:
Video devices:
• These should not ever be placed in the driver’s area of vision.
Passenger sitting in the rear can have these but the volume must always
be controlled to ensure that it is not distracting you as the driver.
Communicating with passengers and other drivers:
• Any of these can cause the motorist to lose focus.
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GPS units:
It is always best to get directions for your destination before starting the journey.
A GPS unit is an electronic device used to help the driver navigate through the
ii. Alcohol reduces your ability to judge how fast you are moving or your
respond, make decisions or react quickly
details in trafic
iv. It makes it harder for you to concentrate and pay attention to various
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• Do not take medicine which causes drowsiness if you intend to use the
road
• Do not ride your motorcycle or drive if you are unwell
Safety Belts
• All passengers must wear safety belts at all times no matter how short
the distance being travelled
• You must fasten your safety belt correctly
• Use appropriate child restraints for children e.g. a booster seat is
recommended for children under 12. A booster seat is designed to
enhance safety by ensuring that vehicle seat belt its properly).
Litter
• DO NOT discard litter on the roads
• Litter can be a hazard to you and other road users
journey
• Always dispose off litter in the dustbin before or at the end of your
Prevention of theft
When you leave your vehicle:
• Switch off the ignition and remove the keys
• When you park your vehicle ensure that it is appropriately secured to
reduce the risk of theft
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• Lock all windows and the car boot
Category B
GVW of maximum 3, 500
Automatic Not more than seven
CATEGORY B kg with one light trailer (not
(Light Vehicle passengers
exceeding 750 kg).
Automatic)
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Safety Equipment
All motorists should have certain safety equipment that could be used in
case of an emergency.
Equipment Function
Relector Triangle
vehicle for any given reason stops on the road. These should
be placed 60 metres ahead and 60 metres behind a disabled
vehicle.
A fully equipped irst aid kit should have the following items -
First aid kit
gauze dressings, triangular bandages, rolled bandages, safety
pins, disposable sterile gloves, tweezers, scissors, alcohol-free
cleansing wipes, sticky tape, antiseptic cream, painkillers such as
paracetamol, antihistamine tablets, distilled water for cleaning
wounds, eye wash and eye bath
Tools Box
Fire Extinguisher
Fire Axe
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Equipment Function
Tow ropes
This rope is reinforced to handle the weight of the car and can
be used to tow vehicles in case of a breakdown.
Spare tyre
Jumpstart Cable
Survival Gear
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UNIT 5: VEHICLE CONSTRUCTIONS AND CONTROLS
This chapter gives an overview of the light motor vehicle construction and
controls. You will also learn where these parts are situated in the light vehicle and
how they function.
This is the control panel placed at the front of the vehicle or dashboard. The
dashboard has instruments and controls used to run the vehicle. You should get
to know the names and location of these controls. You should also know how
these controls and instruments function and how to maintain them. There are
slight differences in the dashboard depending on the make and model of the
vehicle.
Component Function
Steering Wheel
Direction Indicator
Gear Lever
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Component Function
Hand Brake
Brake pedal
Accelerator
Clutch pedal
Rear-view Mirror
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Component Function
Side mirror
Windscreen Wipers Switch Used to turn your windscreen wipers on, off or to
a higher or lower wiper setting for a clear view
while driving in rain. Also used to try to clean your
windscreen
Speedometer
Temperature Gauge
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Components of a light vehicle
Name Component
Engine
Ignition
Accelerator
Exhaust pipe
Gear Box
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Name Component
Radiator
Chassis
Windscreen
Bumper bar
Name Component
Air-conditioning
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Name Component
Name Component
Braking system
Steering system
Transmission
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Name Component
Suspension System
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UNIT 6: SELF - INSPECTION OF VEHICLE
Before embarking on a journey, any responsible driver should ensure that the
vehicle is in the right condition for the journey. Self- inspection refers to checking
on different aspects of the motor vehicle to ensure that it is safe to use. Self –
be done. Self-inspection should also be done at the end of the journey so that the
inspection allows the driver to know what maintenance or repair work ought to
It is also important for the driver to know the common anomalies that may occur
during long distance travel.
Exterior Inspection
journey. There are various vehicle components that should be inspected before
This is the inspection that the driver of the vehicle undertakes before starting the
3. Mirrors
4. Windshield Wipers
5. Windows
6. The Body
7. Cleanliness
8. Safety Belts
9. Emergency equipment
10. Paperwork
• Give your tyres a visual inspection before and after every journey
with ease.
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2. Relectors and Lights
• Ensure that the headlights, turn signals, and hazard lights are
operational
• Where possible, ask for assistance in checking the reverse lights since
this can only be done when the vehicle is reversing
3. Mirrors
• Make sure that all your mirrors are present, properly adjusted and
unobstructed before driving the vehicle
4. Windshield Wipers
• The windshield wipers must work at all setting
• Make sure that you have wiper luid
5. Windows
dificulty
• Check all the windows, ensure that they can open and shut without
6. The Body
• Inspect the exterior body for any damage such as dents and scratches.
7. Cleanliness
• Ensure that the vehicle is clean. Make sure that the windscreen,
windows and mirrors are clean for ease of navigation
• Ensure that your vehicle interior is clean and free of clutter to
minimise distraction while driving and ensure that your passengers are as
comfortable as possible
9. Emergency Equipment
extinguisher, irst aid kit, tools, spare tyre and survival gear
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10. Paperwork
• Ensure that you have all that you as the motorist have the
appropriate licence that permits you to drive the car. Additionally, ensure
that the vehicle is roadworthy and the correct registration and vehicle
insurance
Interior Inspection
It is important to carry out the interior inspection to ensure that the vehicle is
mechanically sound.
Ensure that the brakes are properly adjusted. To do this you may turn on the
1. Brakes
2. Steering
The steering wheel should have a full range of motion i.e. it should be able to
turn at 360 degrees. It should also effectively turn the front wheels.
3. Indicators
Inspect all indicators to make sure that they are operational
4. Gears
Ensure that the vehicle is capable of shifting into any gear
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UNIT 7: OBSERVATION
Observation is essential for safe driving. Observation refers to using your sight and
Driver visibility is the maximum distance at which a driver can clearly identify
objects around the car. Driver visibility varies for each driver depending on the type of
vehicle, the trafic conditions and the individual’s own ability to see. To enhance driver
visibilty it is important to make use of all the mirrors in your vehicle.
• Check the mirrors by looking into the centre interior mirror, followed by
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Mirrors are placed at different parts of the vehicle to assist the driver to get a clearer view
of what is around the vehicle. The mirrors eliminate or alleviate the vehicle blind spot.
• The blind spot should be checked before changing direction when:
• There are motorcyclists or cyclists close by
• You are overtaking on a dual carriageway
• You wish to change lanes
• You wish to change lanes or direction when there is a potential hazard
Types of mirrors
2. Exterior Mirror
Convex mirrors give a wider ield of vision but this make judging the
• These are convex mirrors, which are made using curved glass
should adjust the exterior mirrors so that you can get the best rear view
• Vehicles appear smaller and further away than they actually are. You
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UNIT 8: VEHICLE CONTROL
This section allows you to start putting your theoretical knowledge into practice. You will
be asked to demonstrate certain aspects of your theoretical training at the manoeuvre
These are some of the essential skills you must have before you are allowed to proceed
to the road.
Driving Preparation
As a learner you should be able to make the appropriate preparations before driving the
car. These preparations include the vehicle self-inspection as explained in Unit 7 above.
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• Check rear view mirrors
• Give the proper signal before moving
• Select the appropriate gear
• Increase the engine speed using the accelerator
• Move the handbrake to the OFF position
• Let the clutch pedal rise until the engine speed decreases slightly under
the load. Keep your feet in this position – on the clutch and accelerator
pedals
Most vehicles have ive forward gears and one reverse gear. You should know the
3. Using the gears
appropriate gear speed to be used when driving. You should learn to proiciently change
from 1st to 5th gear without looking.
The neutral position is where no gear is selected. Before starting the engine, the gear
should be in neutral position.
1st Gear – This is used when moving off from a stationary position. This gear is for
travelling between 0 and 30 km/h
2nd Gear – This allows you to move faster and is also applied in slow moving trafic
because it is more economical. It is also the ideal gear for moving downhill from a
stationary position.
3rd Gear - This is the appropriate gear for travelling between 35 and 70 km/h
4th Gear – This is the appropriate gear for travelling between 60 and 110 km/h.
The 4th gear provides more power and speed to the engine and can be used when
overtaking another vehicle.
5th Gear - This is the appropriate gear for travelling between 80 and 110 km/h.
This gear is used on highways where the speed limits are higher.
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4. Steering the vehicle
To avoid injury from the airbag position your hands in the 9 and 3
the vehicle’s tendency to turn from the neutral position
•
position
• To change direction, pull the steering down in the direction you wish
to turn. Bring it down to meet your other hand then push the steering
wheel up until the turn has been executed
You should always ind a parking space that is legal and convenient to park. To park you
5. Parking at the kerb
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Parallel parking
6. Turning
J-turns
A J-turn is a driving manoeuvre in which a reversing vehicle turns 180 degrees
and continues, facing forward, without changing direction of travel.
Only a conident driver who has had a suficient experience driving on different
road surfaces should do this type of turn.
U-turn
A U-turn is a driving manoeuvre in which a forward driving vehicle turns 180
degrees and continues, facing forward, but moving in the opposite direction.
Before you make a U-turn, check to make sure that there is no sign that says you
should not. To make a U-turn safely, you must be able to see well both sides.
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7. Driving on Bends
When approaching a bend, it is important to note how sharp the bend is. Look
out for road signs and markings which would indicate the type of bend you are
Adjust your speed accordingly. If you are too fast you are more likely to skid or
going to encounter.
lose control of your car. Surrounding trees, hedges, buildings and streetlights can
give you a good indication of how sharp the bend is if there are no road signs.
As you approach the bend, apply the MSM technique to communicate with other
road users
8. Driving on Hills
This requires you to anticipate what is ahead of you. While going downhill you
have a clearer view but going uphill you see less of what is ahead of you.
When driving downhill, switch to a lower gear so that the engine controls some
of the braking. This protects your brakes from excessive wear and tear. It takes
longer for the vehicle to stop therefore you need a greater stopping distance.
9. Reversing
Use your mirrors to assist you in seeing what is behind you. When reversing, you
may tilt your head so that you can see beyond the head restraint.
Always reverse at slow speed so as to retain control of your steering. To steer the
car in reverse, turn the wheel in the direction you want the rear of the car to go.
Turning the wheel to the right steers the back of the car to the right. Turning the
wheel to the left steers to the left.
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UNIT 9: COMMUNICATION ON THE ROAD
Road users communicate with each other using a prescribed set of signs and
hand gestures, signal lights and responding to instructions from trafic marshalls
signals to avoid confusion and misunderstanding on the road. This is done using
and police.
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The blind spot should be checked before changing direction when:
1. There are motorcyclists or cyclists close by
2. You are overtaking on a dual carriageway or motorway
3. You wish to change lanes
4. You wish to change lanes or direction when any potential hazard
may be obscured by the blind spot
Signal
• Signals should be applied to the direction you intend to take.
• Signals depend on what you see in your mirrors.
• If you notice a potential or actual hazard located in your mirrors may
have to alter your intended route and not apply a signal. It’s therefore
important that a signal is applied immediately after the mirrors. If there
is a delay, the mirror sequence must be repeated.
• Signaling must be applied in good time. Signaling too late may
not provide vehicles behind with enough time to react if you are
intending on slowing or stopping the car. Signaling too early can give the
impression you are taking a turn sooner than the actual turn you
Manoeuvre
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(b) Hand signals given by drivers to trafic police
I intend to turn to my left I intend to move out to my right I intend to slow down
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(e) Hand signals given by cyclists
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(g) Signals given by trafic marshals
A B C D
If trafic signal lights are not working because of an electrical power failure:
• Stop at the intersection
• Proceed when you know other turning and approaching vehicles,
bicycles, or pedestrians have stopped
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UNIT 10: SPEED MANAGEMENT
A major cause of road accidents is reckless driving and over speeding. Before deciding
what speed to drive at take into consideration the laws determining the speed limits of the
particular road you are using and the road conditions.
The higher the speed of a vehicle, the shorter the time a driver has to stop to avoid a crash.
It is important to remember that pedestrians face great risk when vehicles are driven at
high speeds.
The driver may not notice any new hazard warning signs or other trafic
conditions and any changes in the weather
•
signs
• The fuel consumption may increase due to poor eficiency
If you pass the landmark before you inish counting, then you are too
thousand and two, one thousand and three, one thousand and four.
•
close and you should increase your distance from the vehicle in front
of you
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Keep a distance of approximately four seconds between you and the vehicle in front of you
Braking Distance
• Braking distance is the distance the vehicle travels between hitting the
brakes and coming to a stop
• When on poor roads with wet or icy conditions, the braking distance
increases
• As the vehicle’s speed increases, so does the braking distance
• If the vehicle is in poor condition due to worn out tyres, poor brakes or
overloaded, the braking distance will increase.
Thinking distance
• Is the distance the vehicle travels after the driver decides to hit the
brakes and when the driver actually brakes
• Thinking distance is affected by speed, driver fatigue and distractions
Stopping Distance
• Is both the thinking distance and the braking distance added together.
6m 6m
15m 38m
18m 55m
21m 75m
Stopping distance
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Braking Systems and Techniques
There are different types of brakes. These are: disc brakes, drum brakes, and handbrakes.
• Brakes are located on all four wheels of the vehicle
• Some vehicles have disc brakes on all four wheels while others have
drum brakes on the back wheels
• Braking pushes the weight of the vehicle forward, therefore the front
brakes of the car play a more crucial role than the rear brakes.
• The handbrake applies the two rear brakes
Freewheeling
Freewheeling is moving the vehicle without using power. It is also known as coasting.
In driving this is a technique achieved by depressing the clutch so as not to use the engine
to move.
Risks of Freewheeling
When the driver needs to stop, progressive braking is safer than freewheeling because it
reduces wear on the braking system and on the tyres and ensures that the driver maintains
control of the vehicle.
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UNIT 11: SPACE MANAGEMENT
To drive safely, it is important to manage the space around your vehicle. You do this by
controlling your speed, the position of your vehicle in the lane and communicating on the
road.
In order to manage your space effectively you should be aware of the different road
conditions when driving. These can be broadly divided into three categories
1. Open Condition – This is occurs in large areas where the driver can
gets a clear broad view of the road and surroundings and there are no
inluenced by the weather or the time of the day and the trafic low.
speed limit, road surface conditions, the width of the lane, visibility
All these are conditions that may be unpredictable or may need speciic
actions by the driver.
In all the above-mentioned conditions, the driver has to maintain an appropriate space
around the vehicle for safe driving. This is the space envelope.
To manage space
• Drive at the same speed as the vehicles around you in trafic
• Maintain a safe following distance between your vehicle and the
vehicle ahead of you (Discussed in UNIT 10 on speed management)
Space Recovery
When you realize that there is insuficient space in front of the vehicle.
• Signal so that the vehicles around you know that you intend to slow
down
• Turn slowly to give yourself and other drivers more space to avoid
problems
• Be aware of the size and weight of oncoming vehicles, give then room
• Ensure that you have suficient space to get across or join a lane
to pass but do not reverse as this will affect the vehicles behind you
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Proper position to see and to be seen by other drivers
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UNIT 12: EMERGENCY MANOEUVRES
When driving along the road, there driver may need to make sudden and
unexpected manoeuvres so as to avoid accidents or any imminent danger.
Emergency manoeuvres involves quick and eficient moves.
Brake failure
• If your brake fails, try pumping the brake pedal to temporarily restore
(hand brake) gently but irmly while holding the release button.
hydraulic brake pressure. If this does not work, apply the parking brake
• Total brake failure is rare on modern vehicles but if your brakes fail
and you manage to stop, do not drive again. Call for help from your
mechanic
Blowouts
In order to drive through a tyre blowout:
• Keep a irm grip on the steering wheel.
• Do not slam on the brakes.
• Let your car slow down gradually.
• Pull to the side of the road once you have slowed to a safe speed.
• Activate your hazard lights
If your wheel goes off the pavement
• Hold the steering irmly
• Take your foot off the accelerator pedal to slow down, avoid heavy
braking.
• When the vehicle is under control, steer towards the pavement.
Defensive Driving
Defensive driving is safe driving or cautious driving in cases where the driver
needs to be more vigilant particularly in an environment that could cause danger.
It goes beyond mastering the rules of the road and basic mechanical skills and is
taught to experienced drivers.
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Importance of defensive driving
Don’t drive when you are tired, rest before any journey
•
•
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UNIT 13: SKID CONTROL AND RECOVERY
A skid happens when the vehicle’s wheel slides out of control on a slippery
surface. Skids can involve the front, rear or all four wheels. Even careful drivers
experience skids. You lose traction and your wheels spin or lock, usually when
braking, turning or accelerating.
Causes of Skids:
Types of Skidding
Aquaplaning
Driving too fast or at an excessive or inappropriate speed on a wet road
water, the tyre(s) lose contact with the road and the vehicle loats on a wedge
causes aquaplaning. When the tyre tread cannot channel away enough
accelerator and brakes until your speed drops suficiently for the car tyres to
your tyres’ ability to maintain their road grip. If it happens, ease off the
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Skid recovery
• Take your feet off the accelerator pedals
• Release the brake pedal and reapply the brakes gently
• Quickly turn the steering wheel in the direction you want to go
• As your vehicle turns back in the correct direction, you may then need to steer
in the opposite direction so as to stay on your desired path
• Continue to look at your path of travel down the road
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UNIT 14: ADVERSE DRIVING CONDITIONS
The irst step in dealing with adverse driving conditions is to be prepared by training for
Night Driving
In this case, the driver’s vision and visibility is greatly reduced by the absence of natural
light.
• Relective roads can mislead you to believe that you can see further
• Slow down when driving at night, especially on unlit roads.
low beam headlights as high beams relect off the moisture droplets in
• Make sure the full lighting system of your vehicle is turned on: use your
the fog making it harder to see. Otherwise, use fog lights if your car
has them.
trafic.
• Always be patient – avoid overtaking, changing lanes and crossing
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N/B: If visibility is decreasing rapidly, move off the road and into safe parking
area and wait for fog to lift
Rain
• Rain makes the road surface slippery and reduces visibility.
• Ensure your windshield wiper blades are in good condition (no streak-
ing while cleaning).
• Try to drive in clear sections of the road, look ahead and plan your
movements.
• Smooth steering, braking and accelerating will reduces your chances
of skidding.
• Leave more space between you and the vehicle ahead of you.
Stay out of puddles – a puddle can hide a large pothole that can damage
your vehicle or its suspension or latten a tyre. The spray of water could splash
nearby pedestrians or drown your engine, causing it to stall. Water can also
make your brakes less effective.
Under these conditions the driver has to deal with reduced visibility and
traction, steering, braking and skid control. It is best to practice how to deal with
this conditions in a safe, secluded area. The driver who knows what to do in an
emergency is more likely to stay in control.
1. Be Cautious
Get in the right frame of mind before you start driving. Travel with another
person so that the responsibility of driving is shared.
Adjust your seat correctly to enable you to perform manoeuvres properly. This
2. In the driver’s seat
also reduced the risk of injury to ingers, elbows and the chest. Fasten your
safety belt.
3. Dress appropriately
Wear clothes that are comfortable and also provide freedom of movement.
Heavy garments can restrict movement behind the wheel. Stop in a safe spot
before removing a coat or gloves.
Poor visibility
Keep your windshield and windows clean. Clean the inside of your windows at
least once a week. Use your defroster to keep front and rear windshields clear.
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On a cold day, move the heat control to “hot” and let the engine warm up before
you turn on the defrosters and blowers. This will prevent moisture from collecting
on the inside of the glass.
When the glass gets foggy, open a window slightly and turn the defroster fan to
a higher speed. Use your air conditioner to reduce humidity.
Mud and dust on your headights can reduce the illumination by 90 percent. Stop
periodically during long trips and clean your headlights. If your vehicle is not
equipped with daytime running lights, drive with your low-beam headlights on
at all times - especially on dark or overcast days. Use low beams and fog lights
in fog.
Wet roads mean poor traction. Conditions are most dangerous during the irst
Reduced Traction
10 minutes of a heavy downpour as oil and debris irst rise up, then wash away.
Knowing how to handle poor traction reduces the potential for hydroplaning,
skidding or getting stuck in the mud.
• If rocking doesn’t work and wheels simply spin, ind a way to create
power to keep the wheels from spinning and digging in deeper
use salt, burlap, branches or even the vehicle’s loor mats. Shovel a
traction. Traction mats, gravel or kitty litter work best, but you can also
space in front of the drive wheels and spread your materials there.
Apply power slowly, using second or low gear
Steering clear of collisions
You may need to take evasive action in poor weather to avoid a collision.
Steering around an obstacle is preferred to braking at speeds above 30 km/h
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because less distance is required to steer around an object than to brake to a
stop. In wet weather, sudden braking often leads to skids.
so that neither hand crosses over the imaginary line between 12 and 6
adjustments.
Braking
Stopping on a slippery surface requires more distance, so increase your
following distance. Focus your attention as far ahead as possible - at least 20 to
30 seconds.
Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are designed to prevent wheels from locking
and to retain steering control during panic braking. Sensors located at wheels
detect lock-up. The anti-lock system relieves pressure as needed, allowing all
four wheels to continue to turn while maintaining steering control.
You should use the “plant and steer” method with antilock brake systems. Do not
remove your foot from the brake or pump the pedal. If you apply pressure and
the wheels lock momentarily, you might feel the brake pedal pulse back against
your foot. This is normal. Just hold the brake pedal down and steer. Pumping the
pedal actually works against the system.
brakes is to use threshold braking. Keep the heel of your foot on the loor and
The best way to stop on a slippery surface if your vehicle doesn’t have antilock
use the ball of your foot to apply irm, steady pressure on the brake pedal to the
“threshold” of locking your brakes.
If your heel leaves the loor, the wheels could lock because control of
muscles, which are not capable of the iner control required in this situation.
the brake pedal is transferred from your ankle muscles to your thigh
Under the stress of trying to stop quickly, drivers almost inevitably use too much
pressure, resulting in locked wheels (on non-ABS-equipped vehicles). If this
happens, release pressure on the brake pedal by one or two degrees, then
immediately reapply slight pressure. Continue this technique as needed until the
vehicle comes to a stop.
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Dealing with a crisis
When visibility is so limited that you can’t see the edges of the road or other
vehicles at a safe distance, it’s time to get off the road and wait for the rain to
stop. It’s best to stop at a rest area or exit the freeway and go to a protected
area. If the roadside is your only option, pull off the road as far as you can,
preferably past the end of a guardrail. Vehicles parked at the side of the road are
frequently struck by other drivers. Respect the limitations of reduced visibility and
turn headlights off and hazard lights on to alert other drivers.
Set up the relector triangles behind and in front of the crash site.
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UNIT 15: PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
working condition and that any problems can be detected and ixed before they
Refers to the different types of work done to ensure that the vehicle is in good
• Adjustment
• Lubrication
• Cleaning
• Testing of certain parts
• Repair and replacing worn out parts
1
Below is a table indicating common issues and how to resolve them.
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Problem Symptom Solution
Lights • Bulb failure • Check and replace bulb
Lamp does not light • Fuse failure Possible bulb failure • Check and replace fuse
Indicator lashing • Part failure of unit • Check and replace the unit
irregularly
Main/dip not lit
Engine • Fuel or electrical fault • Examine connections
Misiring or won’t run • Defective spark plugs • Seek assistance
Fails to start • Out of fuel • Refuel
Starter does not
Battery lat
• Damp in electrical system • Examine and replace if
operate
Starter motor jammed Fan belt
• necessary
Starter or solenoid • Check gauge
clicks but does not loose • Change battery
operate • Fuse blown on electric cooling • Jump start
Squealing noise from fan • Push start
engine area • Loss of coolant • Rock vehicle backwards
Overheating
Adjust and replace and
Fan belt snapped forwards in gear.
•
replace fuse
• Tape hose for temporary
repair Replace belt
obligations when handling cargo. The Trafic Act provides guidelines for conditions of
these rights. It also refers to the driver’s obligation to customers and their
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UNIT 17: HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Hazardous Material is any material prescribed as such by any written law and
includes explosives, petroleum products and any material involving high risk.
other living organisms, property, or the environment. They are often subject to
Hazardous materials are solids, liquids, or gases that are harmful to people,
chemical regulations.
Before handling hazardous material, the driver is required to get legal approval
that requires special equipment and different alterations to the vehicle to make
it suitable for transporting any of these materials.
Explosives
• Gases
• Flammable Liquids
• Flammable Solids
• Oxidizing Substances
• Toxic & Infectious Substances
• Radioactive Material
• Corrosives
• Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods
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ofloading that the driver should adhere to.
Each class of hazardous material has a prescribed procedure for loading and
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UNIT 18: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
The driver should always be prepared to handle any emergencies that may occur
within or outside the car.
driver take the prescribed safety precautions before embarking on the journey.
Many of these situations can be avoided by ensuring that the passengers and
These are the steps that should be taken in the event of an accident.
Set up the relector triangles behind and in front of the crash site.
The relector triangles should each be 50 metres behind and ahead
•
Call for emergency services – the police, ambulance and ire brigade
the vehicle.
•
- immediately, providing full details of the incident location and any
DO NOT move injured people from their vehicles unless they are in
•
First Aid
Many road crash victims suffer unnecessarily, or even die, at the scene of the
crash due to inadequate care. Someone with First Aid training can often prevent
a victim’s condition from worsening and may save their life. The aims of First Aid
are to:
3. Promote recovery
You can get First Aid training at places such as Red Cross and St. John’s
you can do to help the injured, and these are described below.
Ambulance. But even if you do not have First Aid training there are simple things
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1. Prevent further danger and make safe
First of all assess the danger to yourself, the victims and others. Make the
situation safe before approaching. You do not want to become a casualty
yourself. For instance, warn and control approaching vehicles to prevent a
2. Emergency treatment
The most important thing is to preserve life. Remember “Dr A.B.C.” This stands
for:
Is there continuing danger to the injured? Try to make safe. Protect the casualty
D = Danger:
R = Response: Is there any response from the casualty? – Shake the casualty
gently and talk to him. If there is no response check the airway (throat).
A = Airway:
Is the airway (throat) clear? Lay the casualty on his back, tilt the head to one side,
your ingers to scoop out anything (food, dirt, artiicial teeth, etc.) in the mouth;
and open the mouth; check that the tongue is not blocking the throat, and use
then gently move the head so that the chin is up and the mouth open and check
for breathing.
B = Breathing:
Is the casualty breathing?
Check by putting your ear close to the casualty’s mouth for at least 10 seconds
the nostrils, taking a deep breath, and breathing slowly into the casualty’s mouth
until you have emptied all the air in your lungs into his. Do this again. Check
again for breathing. If there is still no breath, check for circulation.
Is there a pulse? Check the pulse by placing two ingers at the neck near
C = Circulation:
the throat, and look at the casualty’s colour and pupils of the eyes. If there
is no breath or circulation, call for emergency assistance immediately before
continuing. Once help has been summoned, if you know the technique, then
artiicial respirations until expert help arrives, or the casualty starts breathing.
apply CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation) combining chest compressions with
If there is a pulse, but the casualty is still not breathing, continue with artiicial
respiration (a breath every ive seconds). Do not give up - it may take
some time for him to be able to breathe on his own. Once the casualty is
breathing and talking again, lay him on his back and keep him warm.
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If he is breathing but does not answer questions, put him in the recovery position.
3. Get help
Expert help must be summoned as quickly as possible, normally by dialing 999.
Try not to leave the casualty alone, so ask others to phone or get help and to
report back that they have done so. Many people have mobile phones so there
may be no need to leave the scene. It is important to give the emergency services
clear information on:
• What has happened
• The location of the crash; street name, known landmarks or places
• If help is not quickly available you may have to transport the casualty
to a medical facility. Ask the advice of the Police or local people about
that they will survive a long trip to hospital. However some may not be
open 24 hours
problems
• A person can bleed to death in ive minutes, so it is vital that you try
5. Bleeding and injury treatment
lat on the ground. Find out where the bleeding is coming from. Then
and stop heavy loss of blood. Reassure him, and, if possible, lay him
irm pressure over the wound, preferably using a sterile dressing from
check for anything in the wound and remove it if is easy to do so. Apply
pressure briely every ten minutes. If there are no broken bones, raise a
wound, but be careful that you do not cut off circulation - release the
stabilize the limb and avoid movement so you don’t make the injury
• If there are broken bones, fractures or dislocations it is important to
worse. If there are burns, immediately cool the area with cold running
water and then cover with a clean dressing.
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6. Treat victims for shock
• It is also very important to recognize, prevent, and treat the symptoms
original injury. The signs are: a cold, pale, damp skin; fast or weak
of shock, as these may cause even more serious deterioration than the
1 2
4
3
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Reporting the accident
• Report the accident as soon as possible to the police
• If you are hired as a driver, also report the incident to your employer
• Take a photo or sketch the accident scene if you can do so safely
• Record the number plate of the vehicles involved in the accident
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UNIT 19: WORK PLANNING
Work Planning ensures that the driver and the customers both get the best out
schedule any stoppages during the journey and arrive at the intended destination
on time
If the journey involves transportation of goods, then the driver should pick up the
Preparing for the Journey (Trip Planning)
goods and get all the appropriate documentation. This may include
• Name, address, phone and directions of the sender
• Pick-up phone number
• Appointment time for collecting and delivering the goods
• If you travel during peak trafic hours your journey is likely to be longer
2. Time/Traffic conditions during the journey
3. Meals
• Plan ahead for where you will stop for meals
• If using familiar roads then go to place you are familiar with
• If you are using an unfamiliar route, it is best to plan ahead by using
maps which can assist you in planning for where to stop
• If you feel tired during the journey, stop the vehicle at a convenient stop
and get some rest and fresh air before proceeding on your journey
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5. Adverse weather conditions
• Avoid driving in adverse weather conditions
• Take the right precautions if you get caught up in these conditions
Managing Time
directions before starting the journey. You can do this by consulting maps, GPS
To get to the intended destination within the least possible amount of time get
units and other drivers. Ensure that you know alternative routes so that you have
options in case of road restrictions.
The driver is obligated to adhere to the rules in the Trafic Act. It is illegal to force
Legal limits on Duty hours /Driving hours
a public service driver work for more than the designated hours provided.
“66A. (1) No person shall drive a public service vehicle or a commercial vehicle
for more than a total of eight hours in any period of twenty-four hours.
(2) Any person who contravenes or fails to comply with subsection (1) shall be
guilty of an offence and liable —…”
After completing the journey, the driver of a public service vehicle should pro-
Completing records of duty, work tickets or trip cards.
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UNIT 20: CUSTOMER CARE
A customer refers to anyone that you have to deal with in the course of riding or
driving on the road. In this case, the customer may be a pedestrian, a passenger
and other motorists
Communication Skills
The trafic situation brings together different types of road users – pedestrians,
Why you need to train on communication
cyclists, riders and other motorists – and also different types of individuals with
varying personalities and varying needs. As such it is not enough to know the
rules of the road. It is also important to learn how to interact with different types
of individuals.
The following are some elements of communication that every road user should
learn:
• Patience
• Attitude
• Language
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• Take responsibility for your actions when you are on the wrong. In the
event that you are involved in an accident. Do not take the law into
your own hands. Report the matter to the police
• Be visible by positioning yourself correctly on the road and signalling
where necessary
• Ensure that your vehicle interior and exterior is clean, that the number
plates are visible and that your passengers have comfortable seating
and use their safety belts at all times
• Ensure that you store away luggage in the boot
• Provide suficient time for passengers to board and alight from the
designated points
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Observe Personal Hygiene
• Ensure that you are smart, sober and clean. Provide a clean
your attitude towards your work and it ultimately affects how you
interact with your customers
• Ensure that your vehicle or motorcycle is kept clean. Ensure that your
number plates are visible and that your safety gear is also kept clean.
This allows you to communicate effectively on the road; to see and be
seen
• Get suficient rest and nutrition to that you are strong and healthy
customer know
• Take breaks between journeys and only work within legally stipulated
enough to ride your motorcycle.
hours so that you, your passengers and goods are safe from the risk of
accidents caused by fatigue
Sexual Harassment
This is a form of bullying or coercion which happens when a person directly or
indirectly makes unwelcome requests for sexual intercourse, sexual contact, other
sexual activity, uses written or spoken language of a sexual nature, uses visual
material or shows physical behaviour of sexual nature
Discrimination
Occurs when you chose to treat customers favourably or unfavourably because
of their appearance, race, ethnic identity, gender or age.
• Both sexual harassment and discrimination are anti social behaviours
that discourage positive interaction on the road.
• It is important to create a working environment where vulnerable
passengers are safe and are less likely to encounter inappropriate
behaviour, language or contact.
• Ensure that you have a procedure in place to deal with sexual
harassment and discrimination should you encounter it.
• When faced with sexual harassment or discrimination, speak up,
address the issue with the administrative authority and seek assistance
from the police.
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Competitive Riding
This is when motorcyclists ride abreast at unreasonable speed. No more than 2
riders are allowed to ride abreast.
• Don’t drive when you are tired, rest before any journey
In order to get your riding licence, you should follow the exam registration
procedure provided for by NTSA.
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TRAFFIC SIGNS
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Secondary Message Signs for use with Regulatory Signs
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(c) Information Signs
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(d) Guidance Signs
Traffic Signals
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Lane 1 has two options
Stay on lane 1, Go straight, 0°
Turn left at 90°
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Lane 2 has one option
Go straight only, 0°
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Lane 4 has four options
• Turn right at 90°
• Come back at 180°
• Turn left 270°
• Go straight 360° after going round
the roundabout clockwise direction
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National Transport and Safety Authority
Hill Park Building; Upper Hill
PO Box 3602 -00506 Nairobi
Email: [email protected]
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