Hong Kong to adjust seat belt rules for children under age 8 from Saturday
Requirement for seat belt adjusters and child safety seats in private vehicles also applies to those shorter than 1.35 metres
Children under the age of eight or shorter than 1.35 metres (4.43 feet) are required to use devices such as seat belt adjusters or child safety seats in private vehicles starting from Saturday, with serious violations potentially resulting in a HK$2,000 (US$257) fine.
The Transport Department said on Wednesday that the rules would apply regardless of which seat the passenger was sitting in, with anyone above the age and height thresholds expected to wear a suitable device or a seat belt for adults.
“There are similar regulations in Shanghai, Shenzhen, the EU, Japan and Singapore,” it said.
Explainer | Buckle up on the road: Hong Kong to enforce seat belt rules across the board
After Friday’s crackdown on minibus passengers, the Post explains what passengers need to know about seat belt rules on public and private transport
Footage of a police undercover crackdown on minibus commuters in Hong Kong has gone viral on social media, and the force will issue summonses to 31 passengers for failing to wear their seat belts.
The Post breaks down the mandatory seat belt requirements for passengers on public and private transport.
1. What happened during undercover police operation on minibus passengers?
According to police, the enforcement action took place on Friday and involved undercover officers from the force’s Kowloon East traffic enforcement and control division boarding minibuses and checking for passengers not wearing seat belts.
Footage of one crackdown went viral on social media.
In the widely shared clip, an officer stands up and shouts: “Everyone don’t move! Police.” He then brandishes a card before counting aloud those who have not buckled up.
A uniformed traffic officer is later seen boarding the bus to help with the checks, while the undercover officer asks all passengers to present their identity cards.
Police said they would continue to target various traffic offences and take appropriate action regularly to ensure road safety and the smooth flow of traffic.
2. What is the law requiring minibus passengers to fasten their seat belts?
Under the Road Traffic (Safety Equipment) Regulations, passengers are required to buckle up in public light buses if seat belts are available.
Failure to do so can result in a fine of up to HK$5,000 (US$641) and three months in prison.
The commissioner for transport may consider granting an exemption to those who can present a valid medical certificate. But very few people can be exempted on medical grounds, even during pregnancy.
Any person granted an exemption must carry the relevant letter when travelling for inspection by police officers.
3. Do minibus drivers bear criminal liability too?
It is the responsibility of passengers to wear seat belts themselves. Drivers may refuse to operate their vehicles if passengers are not wearing seat belts.
4. Is there a new law to cover buses and other types of transport?
Yes, a law amendment bill has been passed to extend the mandatory fitting and wearing of seat belts to buses, private light buses, goods vehicles, special purpose vehicles and student service vehicles.
From January 25 next year, passengers must fasten their seat belts in these vehicles whenever they are provided.
5. How about other measures to enhance passenger safety?
From November 1, children in private cars must use devices such as a child safety seat for their protection.
Children under the age of eight and shorter than 1.35 metres must use the device or wear an adult seat belt when travelling in a private car. Offending drivers will be subject to a maximum fine of HK$2,000.
