The reckless actions of a driver, captured on camera filming himself exceeding the recommended speed limit on Thika Superhighway, has ignited a debate among Kenyans with many arguing that the driver's actions put the lives of other motorists in danger.
In the video clip that surfaced online on Tuesday, August 8, the Mercedes Benz driver went live on TikTok, berating another motorist driving a Volkswagen Polo. Notably, the man was recorded cruising at a speed exceeding 180 km/hr on the highway, making a daring attempt to overtake the Volkswagen Polo.
The motive behind the driver's actions remains unclear. It was uncertain whether the two drivers were engaged in a competition or if the Mercedes driver was simply determined to overtake the other vehicle.
The Benz driver claimed that the motorist driving the Volkswagen Polo challenged him to a race hence his aggressive overtaking manouvres.
"I would rather miss the exit but I must overtake him," the driver said while displaying extraordinary enthusiasm to beat the other motorist.
The video clearly showed that the Benz driver blatantly disregarding road safety rules as he cruised through the traffic.
Social media users expressed shock at the driver's behaviour, condemning his actions for endangering the lives of fellow motorists. Many questioned the motive behind the race, questioning whether the whole episode was necessary.
"Maybe the other driver wasn't even aware that he was supposed to be racing."
"People do funny things for self satisfaction."
"Avoid such drivers at all costs. They can ruin your journey just to prove a point," read some of the comments.
According to the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), the speed limit for highways is 110km/hr which put the driver way above the recommended threshold.
To rein in on such acts, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has in the last month conducted a sensitisation campaign geared at enforcing strict compliance with traffic regulations.
Dubbed "Fatal Six," the campaign centers on critical errors that both drivers and passengers commit on the road.
They include; speeding, disregard for lane discipline, engaging in distracted driving, driving under the influence, neglecting to wear appropriate helmets, and failing to utilise designated pedestrian crossings.
"Road users who engage in one of these behaviours are far more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than those who don't," NTSA stated in July 2023.
