Drivers voice concerns over steep fines for traffic violations

The decree, which aims to curb traffic violations, significantly increases penalties for offenses such as ignoring traffic signals and driving against the flow of traffic.

At the bustling Nguyen Trai-Khuat Duy Tien-Nguyen Xien intersection in Hanoi on Wednesday, traffic remained heavy despite the holiday. Five traffic police officers were stationed in the area to monitor compliance.

Son, 67, was among those stopped after speeding through a red light. While acknowledging his mistake, he broke down upon learning about the heightened fines.

"If the fine is this high, I may have to abandon my vehicle," he said, explaining that his demanding work schedule left him unaware of the new regulations. "I only managed to deliver five orders today. After deducting fuel costs, I earned about VND63,000. If I’m fined this much, I may not be able to continue this job."

Another motorcyclist, a woman who stopped her motorbike past the designated traffic line, was also pulled over. She explained that during peak hours, police officers sometimes instructed her to park slightly ahead of the crossing while waiting for the light to change.

However, the officer clarified that unless an officer is actively directing traffic, drivers must adhere to traffic light signals.

Nguyen Quang Nhat, head of the traffic police department’s division for propaganda and accident investigation, said the stricter fines are as necessary to deter violations.

"Most intersections are now equipped with surveillance cameras. If people believe they have been wrongly fined, they can file a complaint," Nhat said.

Vietnam reported over 21,500 traffic accidents in 2024, resulting in more than 9,950 fatalities and 16,000 injuries.