Hong Kong issues fresh reminder to buckle up ahead of January 25 seat belt rules
Passengers must wear seat belts if available on public and private buses, while drivers are responsible for child passengers’ safety
Hong Kong drivers and passengers have just more than two weeks to prepare for sweeping changes to local transport rules, including a requirement to wear seat belts on public transport and increased legal liability for motorists to ensure child passengers are buckled up.
Authorities said on Thursday that the public should be mindful of new rules set to begin on January 25, which require passengers to wear a seat belt if available on public and private buses – including franchised and school services – as well as rear seats in private light buses and goods vehicles.
Passengers who fail to do so face a maximum fine of HK$5,000 (US$640) and up to three months in prison.
Private vehicle drivers, including those of goods and special-purpose vehicles, will also carry a heavier burden of responsibility for their passengers under the age of 15. If these passengers are found unbuckled, the driver faces a separate fine of HK$2,000.
Authorities said that if a child could sit upright on their own, they should occupy their own seat and wear a seat belt.
For toddlers who cannot sit by themselves, adults should first fasten their own seat belts and hold onto their child to reduce the risk of being thrown in the event of an accident.