Loading, Towing and Vehicle Dimensions in Kenya

How a vehicle is loaded changes how it brakes, steers, and corners, so load rules are safety rules. Overloading is dangerous and illegal: it overstresses the brakes, tyres, and steering, and it is a frequent cause of crashes and roll-overs on Kenyan highways. You can find your vehicle's maximum load weight on a plate inside the driver's door or in the vehicle manual.

Load heavy items low and centred for the best stability, and secure everything so nothing can shift or fall onto the road. A roof load must not extend more than 1 metre beyond the body of the vehicle, and it must be firmly tied down. An unbalanced or loose load makes the vehicle unpredictable, especially in a sudden swerve or heavy braking.

Towing has its own rules. The maximum tow-rope length is 4.5 metres, the maximum towing speed is 30 km/h, and a driver must sit in the towed vehicle to steer and brake. Both vehicles should display hazard lights, and the towed vehicle should carry an "On Tow" sign at the rear. Do not tow on a highway; call a recovery service instead.