Public urged to observe road safety during Lunar New Year holidays
******************************************************************
The Transport Department (TD) today (February 7) reminded all road users to observe road safety during the Lunar New Year holidays.
“Motorists must not drive after drinking alcohol or taking drugs, so as to avoid contravening the law. Drink driving and drug driving will not only endanger motorists themselves, but also other road users. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs will significantly impair driving ability. After drinking alcohol or taking drugs, one should use public transport services or arrange someone else to drive,” a TD spokesman said.
“Moreover, motorists must not participate in illegal road racing and speeding. Motorists should always maintain a steady and suitable speed and keep sufficient distance with the vehicle in front.”
The spokesman also appealed to motorists not to park their vehicles illegally. They should park in a parking place or a car park so as to maintain smooth road traffic. This can avoid causing traffic jams, affecting public transport operation, blocking passage of emergency vehicles, and obstructing the sight lines of pedestrians and other road users which may otherwise cause traffic accidents. For motorists who commit traffic offences and cause traffic obstruction, the Police will issue warnings or summonses, or even tow away the vehicles concerned.
When cycling, members of the public are advised to cycle within their abilities and observe road safety, wear suitable helmets and personal protective equipment as well as properly check their bicycles. They should always be attentive, patient and law-abiding when cycling. Pedestrians must also follow the traffic rules when crossing a road. Before crossing the road, they must wait until the steady “Green man” light shows and all traffic has stopped.
The spokesman emphasised that road safety hinges on the co-operation of every road user, and appealed to the public to exercise self-discipline and comply with traffic rules.