In Kenya, mastering the rules of the road is crucial for passing the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) driving exam and ensuring safe driving. One common question that trips up learners is: “Green colour on the traffic light means go, except when?” This question tests your understanding of road safety and situational awareness. While a green light typically signals drivers to proceed, there are critical exceptions that every Kenyan driver must know to avoid accidents and comply with traffic regulations. This article breaks down the correct answers, backed by credible sources like the NTSA guidelines and Kenya’s Traffic Act, to help you ace your driving exam and drive confidently.
Understanding Traffic Light Rules in Kenya
Traffic lights are a cornerstone of road safety, guiding drivers at intersections and busy roads across Nairobi, Mombasa, and beyond. According to the NTSA, a green light indicates that drivers may proceed through an intersection, provided it is safe to do so. However, this permission is not absolute. Misinterpreting a green light can lead to collisions or penalties, especially in Kenya’s bustling urban centres where traffic conditions are dynamic. The NTSA driving exam emphasizes situational exceptions to ensure drivers prioritize safety over blindly following signals.
Exceptions to the Green Light Rule
The NTSA driving exam highlights two key scenarios where a green light does not mean go:
- When there is an oncoming vehicle from the right: At intersections, particularly roundabouts or uncontrolled junctions, the rule of priority often applies. According to Kenya’s Traffic Act, vehicles approaching from the right have the right of way in certain situations, even if you face a green light. For example, if you’re at a roundabout in Nairobi and an oncoming vehicle from the right is already in motion, you must yield to avoid a collision. This rule ensures smooth traffic flow and prevents accidents at complex junctions.
- When stopped by a police officer: A police officer’s instructions override traffic signals. If a traffic police officer in Kisumu or Eldoret signals you to stop at a green light, you must comply. This could happen during special operations, roadblocks, or when managing heavy traffic. Ignoring an officer’s directive can lead to fines or legal consequences, as outlined in the Traffic Act Cap 403.
Why These Exceptions Matter
These exceptions are designed to enhance road safety and maintain order. Kenya’s roads, from Thika Road to Mombasa Highway, see thousands of vehicles daily, and adhering to these rules prevents chaos at intersections. The NTSA emphasizes that drivers must remain vigilant, even with a green light, to avoid endangering pedestrians, cyclists, or other motorists. For learner drivers, understanding these scenarios is not just about passing the exam but about building habits for responsible driving. Data from the NTSA shows that intersection-related accidents accounted for 15% of road crashes in Kenya in 2024, underscoring the importance of these rules.
Tips to Ace This NTSA Exam Question
To prepare for the NTSA driving exam and apply these rules on the road, keep these tips in mind:
- Study the Traffic Act: Familiarize yourself with Kenya’s traffic laws, especially rules on right-of-way and police authority.
- Practice situational awareness: Always scan for oncoming vehicles or pedestrians, even at a green light.
- Respect police signals: Look out for traffic officers at intersections, especially in urban areas like Nairobi or Nakuru.
- Take mock tests: Use NTSA-approved driving school resources or online platforms to practice similar questions.
By mastering these exceptions, you’ll not only pass your NTSA driving exam but also contribute to safer roads in Kenya. Stay alert, drive responsibly, and let the green light guide you—when it’s safe to go!
