Frequently asked questions about self-drive in Uganda

What to do in case of an accident?

• First ensure your safety. Your safety should be the top priority. Transfer the vehicle to a safe place if possible away from traffic. After put on the hazard lights to notify other road users.

• Inform the hirer operator. Call the Alpha rent a Car emergency mobile numbers on your agreement to tell them about the accident incident. Follow the instructions from the company and its team.

• Take photos of the accident scene. Get your mobile phone and take pictures and videos of the vehicles involved in the accident as crucial evidence. Send it to the emergency team or contact using any of your social media handles.

• Seek Medical attention, if you have sustained any injuries from the accident. 

• Call the police. In case it involves more than one vehicle details of the vehicle and their driver should be identified and reported such as drivers Id, telephone number, number plate and insurance registration number. Call 999 toll free number, inform the police officer about the accident.
• After an accident the hirer should not leave the vehicle unattended incase they are not injured.

Steps to follow in case of a vehicle break down?

• Pull over; In case you can find a safe place to pull over off the road or in the emergency breakdown lane. Try to keep off the central median strip. Park far left as possible to maximize the space between your car and traffic 

• Turn on your hazard lights; 

The parking lights are also good idea in case it’s dark or there is poor visibility look for the hazard lights and they will help you so much 

• Get out of your car; In case it’s safe exit your car from side away from the traffic always check for traffic first and close the door behind you. If it’s not safe to exit your car, stay inside with your seatbelt on.
• Stand clear of all traffic; always stand clear of the road and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid crossing the road at all times always stand behind safety barriers in case there is one wait under some shade in case it’s a hot day.

• Aim to call for help; Call a roadside assistance provider or town company for help in case you don’t have a mobile you can use an emergency phone in case there is one nearby. In case you are outside try to face the traffic to avoid oncoming traffic.
• Remember to stay calm; As long as you are safe that’s all that matters help may take long to arrive in case you are on a country road.

• Always way it out: Wait in your safe place for help to arrive and then follow their instructions.

Lost number plate during your self-drive trip?

• Inform the rental company i.e. Alpha Rent a Car emergency contact, follow their instructions.
• Stop look for a nearby police station and obtain a police abstract.
• Present a valid driver’s license / international driving license and passport.
• Obtain an affidavit for lost number plate 
• Fill in the required details 
• Pay the required fee 
• Collect it when its ready