At major Hanoi intersections, including Khuat Duy Tien-Nguyen Xien, O Cho Dua, Pham Tu-Nguyen Xien, Nga Tu So-Tay Son and Tay Son-Thai Ha, on the afternoon of September 24, drivers were seen brazenly running red lights in defiance of stiff penalties.
Although warning signs displaying fines for wrong-way driving and red-light violations, ranging from VND 4-6 million (USD 160-240) for motorbikes to VND 18-20 million (USD 720-800) for cars, were posted at the Nguyen Xien-Khuat Duy Tien intersection, many still ignored them.
Nguyen Huong Mai, 58, a resident of Khuat Duy Tien Street, stated that after a new decree took effect, cases of motorbikes running against traffic and disregarding red lights dropped significantly. However, such violations have since become common again, especially during the morning and evening rush hours.
“Red-light running still happens a lot, particularly among ride-hailing drivers, some of whom even cover their licence plates to avoid fines. I think running red lights is extremely dangerous and could lead to serious accidents,” Mai added.
While many waited at the red light on Nguyen Xien Street heading towards Khuat Duy Tien, three ride-hailing motorbike drivers swerved onto Nguyen Trai Street and ran the red light.
A truck ignored a red light opposite the Hanoi People’s Court on Nguyen Xien Street.
Many motorbike drivers were found riding without helmets and running red lights during rush hour at the O Cho Dua intersection.
It is easy to spot parents taking young children without helmets and even travelling the wrong way.
A traffic police officer stationed at the O Cho Dua-Xa Dan intersection said that during rush hours, officers were under strain to control lanes and manage the heavy flow of vehicles. This allowed some irresponsible drivers to take advantage and break traffic rules.
Under Decree 168, car drivers running a red light will be fined between VND 18 million and VND 20 million and have four points deducted from their driving licence. For the same violation, motorcyclists face fines of VND 4-6 million and also a four-point deduction.