Car Safety Tips for Kenyan Women Drivers: How to Stay Safe on the Road

Being a woman driver in Kenya comes with its own unique set of challenges. Whether it’s dealing with pesky matatus, handling chaotic traffic jams, or keeping an eye out for that msee wa boda swerving out of nowhere—driving can feel like an extreme sport. 

And while it’s fun to drive (especially with a good playlist), when running errands, heading to work, or enjoying a girls’ road trip, safety on the road should always be your top priority.

So, here’s a no-nonsense guide by Peach Cars to help Kenyan women drivers stay safe on the road.

1. Know Your Car Like You Know Your Handbag

Just like how you wouldn’t leave home without knowing where your phone, keys, and lip balm are in your handbag, you need to know your car just as well. 

This means understanding the basic operations: where the fuel gauge is, how to turn on the hazard lights, how to check tyre pressure, and—this is a big one—how to change a tyre (just in case the universe decides to test you).

Knowing your car inside and out doesn’t make you less “girly” or mean you have to stop wearing cute nails. It just means you’re prepared. You wouldn’t want to be stranded on Mombasa Road at night, waving down strangers for help. Not fun!

Pro Tip: Keep a spare tire, a jack, and a basic toolkit in your car at all times. And practice changing a tire at least once. Just once, I promise!

2. Don’t Share Your Location Like a Snapchat Story

So, you’ve just bought your shiny new ride, and you want the whole world to know you’ve arrived. You’re tempted to snap your location every time you park somewhere fancy. We get it, the ‘gram must know, but oversharing your movements isn’t always the best idea. You never know who’s watching.

Let your close friends know your whereabouts when you need to, but avoid broadcasting your location to the world—especially if you’re driving alone. Keep a low profile, and don’t advertise that you’re about to leave your car in a deserted parking lot. Some things are better kept private.

If you’re a fan of location apps like Google Maps, make sure your sharing settings are restricted to people you actually trust.

3. Avoid Multi-Tasking While Driving (Yes, Even Applying Lip Gloss)

We get it, Nairobi traffic is notorious. It feels like you could complete a whole skincare routine while waiting for the jam to clear. But multitasking while driving is a big no-no. 

You might think you can apply lipstick, adjust the radio, and text back your friend all at once—until something jumps out of nowhere (usually a matatu, because of course).

Stay focused when driving. If you need to fix your hair or retouch your makeup, pull over. No one wants to be caught in a fender bender while halfway through a winged eyeliner!

Pro Tip: Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” while driving. No text is worth an accident!

4. Lock Up Sis, Always!

It sounds obvious, but you’re human, and you’ll forget. Whether you’re driving or parked, keeping your doors locked is a simple but effective way to stay safe.

If you’re stuck in traffic, especially in dodgy areas, don’t roll down your windows all the way. Opportunistic thieves love a good jam—they’re not stuck in traffic; they’re out shopping… for your phone or handbag! 

So, keep your valuables out of sight, lock the doors, and only crack the windows enough to get a breeze—not to invite sticky fingers.

Always check that your car doors automatically lock when you start driving. If not, make it a habit to lock them manually.

5. Be Cautious of Hitchhikers

Let’s talk about hitchhikers for a second. While it’s tempting to be a good Samaritan and give someone a ride, it’s better to be safe than sorry. You can never really know who’s trustworthy and who’s just looking for an opportunity.

Unless you know the person (and even then, be cautious), avoid picking up strangers—especially when driving alone. You’ve got nothing to prove, and your safety is the priority.

Pro Tip: If you ever feel unsafe or are in a situation where someone’s insisting on a ride, it’s okay to politely refuse. Blame it on your insurance company if you have to!

6. Keep an Emergency Kit (And No, I Don’t Mean Just Snacks)

A good emergency kit can be a lifesaver. Stock your car with basics like a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, extra batteries, and, yes, snacks—because hunger is real. If you’re ever stranded (or just caught in a ridiculous jam), these items can make a huge difference.

You should also carry a power bank, just in case your phone dies at the worst possible moment. That way, you won’t be left powerless—literally—if you need to call for help.

While at it, don’t forget to include a reflective triangle and a reflective jacket. You don’t want to be invisible to other drivers if you’re stuck on the roadside at night!

7. Learn How to Handle “Unexpected Guests” on the Road

Carjackings, unfortunately, still happen. Knowing what to do in a high-stress situation could save you a lot of trouble. If you find yourself in a situation where someone threatens you while driving, your priority should always be your safety.

Don’t play hero—give them whatever they want. Cars can be replaced, but you cannot. If they’re asking you to get out of the car, do it, and walk away. Your life is far more valuable than any vehicle.

8. Trust Your Gut (It’s Always Right)

If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Whether it’s someone following you, a sketchy parking area, or a car acting strangely on the road—listen to your instincts. If you feel uneasy, don’t ignore it. Drive to a safe place or call for help.

Your intuition is one of your best safety tools, so trust it. So, if you ever feel like you’re being followed, don’t drive home. Head to a police station or a public area with lots of people.

9. Don’t Leave Valuable Items on Display

This one’s easy. If you leave your handbag, phone, or laptop sitting on the front seat, you’re basically putting out a sign that says, “Please, steal me.” It takes a second for someone to smash a window and grab your valuables.

Always store your belongings in the boot or glove compartment when you’re not in the car. Out of sight, out of mind. Even if you’re just stepping out for a minute, take your valuables with you. Better safe than sorry!

Stay Safe. Drive Smart. And Keep It Peach Cars

Ladies, safety on the road is not about being paranoid—it’s about being prepared. By following these tips, you can enjoy your drives with peace of mind. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a newbie, remember being cautious is cool, and safety is always sexy. 

And if you need more useful tips to stay safe on the road or help in finding your next car, Peach Cars is here to help! We offer a wide selection of quality cars, complete with vehicle inspection and trusted financing options. 

Don’t take chances—let us help you find a safe, reliable vehicle that fits your needs. Visit Peach Cars today and drive away with confidence!