Traffic law changes in force
THE government has amended the Road Traffic Law and updated the fines for all road violations. A sub-decree released on Tuesday said the fine for motorcycle or tuk-tuk drivers and motorbike riders who fail to wear helmets or wear them incorrectly is 60,000 riel ($15).
Other violations of the Road Traffic Law regarding motorcycle and tuk-tuk drivers – including parking in places forbidden by the law, carrying too many passengers, driving up to 19km/h over the speed limit, or ignoring traffic signs are levied a 15,000 riel fine.
Drivers who score over a certain limit when performing an alcohol test will be charged 250,000-800,000 riel and won’t be allowed to continue their journey.
Moreover, drivers of light vehicles and heavy vehicles are fined 75,000 riel and 150,000 riel respectively if they don’t carry the necessary documentation, including driving licence and business permit.
Talking on the phone while driving now entails a fine of 120,000 riel for light vehicles and 225,000 riel for heavy vehicles.
Failing to conduct vehicle inspections, changing the colour of the vehicle without permission or placing stickers in inappropriate areas will make the owner liable to fines of between 180,000 and 375,000 riel.
Drivers who engage in illegal racing or drive exceeding the speed limit by 40 km/h will be slapped with a fine of between 300,000 and 625,000 riel, depending on the size of the vehicle.
Driving without a driver’s license or if the licence has been revoked or suspended is punishable with 1.2 million riel, or 2.4 million riel if driving a heavy vehicle. If the offence is repeated with six months, drivers can face legal charges.
AIP Foundation country director Kim Pagna told The Post that he agreed with the updates to the law and requested the government to disseminate the information widely so that citizens are aware.
“The news are being monopolised by the Covid-19 issue, so many people will probably miss learning about these amendments. I ask the government to share this information widely so that everyone is aware.
“I also ask authorities and police officers to implement the law correctly and transparently,” he said.