Harsh Penalties for Drivers: Motorists Face Steep Fines, Jail for Ignoring Cattle Herders or Hitting Livestock
Many drivers navigate urban streets and highways without knowing certain traffic regulations that may initially appear bizarre or nonsensical.
Nonetheless, breaking these laws can lead to serious consequences, including jail time. One such regulation is the unexpected power given to cattle herders on the road.
Authority isn’t limited to traffic police
Under the Traffic Act, it’s not just traffic officers who have the right to stop vehicles.
Cattle herders also possess this authority, and all drivers are legally required to comply with their commands.
Section 52(a) of the Traffic Act specifies that “The driver of a vehicle shall at all times obey any directions given, whether verbally or by signal, by a police officer in uniform, in the execution of his duty.”
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While this is common knowledge for many drivers, the next part of the law is often overlooked.
Section 52(d) adds that “If any person in charge of cattle signals by raising their hand or through any other gesture to stop, [the driver shall] immediately halt the vehicle and keep it stationary for as long as is reasonably necessary.”
Strict penalties for non-compliance
The law goes beyond simply outlining driver responsibilities. It also imposes severe penalties for those who disregard this requirement.
“Anyone who violates or fails to comply with any provision of this section is guilty of an offense and may face a fine of up to fifty thousand shillings or a prison sentence of up to six months on first conviction,” the Traffic Act outlines.
For repeat violations, the consequences are even more severe. “For a second conviction of the same offense, one could be fined up to Sh75,000 or imprisoned for up to one year,” the law continues.
Possible revocation of driving licence
Beyond fines and imprisonment, the law also allows courts to enforce additional measures.
The court may revoke the offender’s driving license, effectively prohibiting them from driving for an extended period.
Harsh Penalties for Drivers: Motorists Face Steep Fines, Jail for Ignoring Cattle Herders or Hitting Livestock
