Mixed Signals

Because there are few roads that turn off outside of the cities, turn signals are used for different things. If you are behind one car or truck and it has its right signal on, it often means: “Pass only if your are suicidal—there’s oncoming traffic.” And a left signal on means it’s safe to pass. However, if it is the second or further car behind the slow truck, the right signal may mean, “watch out, I’m going to pass as soon as it’s safe.” However if that car doesn’t jump right out when someone further behind assumes it is safe, the signal does not at all guarantee the signalee a place. You constantly have to watch that you don’t have a car passing you as you move out to pass. Even if you are in the process of passing, if there’s room, another car might pass you and the vehicle you’re passing. And a right signal on a lone car may mean they’ve just forgotten to turn it off. And occasionally it really does mean they plan on turning left, or right. Kenya’s an exciting place to drive!