Traffic police patrolling the Noi Bai – Lao Cai Expressway in Yen Bai Province found the car illegally parked along the roadside at approximately 11:25 a.m. on Monday.
The four occupants had laid out a mat beside the expressway and were eating lunch. The driver, a 45-year-old man from Hanoi, told police they stopped there because it was convenient and it was lunchtime.
Police explained the violation to the driver and issued a fine of VND13 million. Six points were deducted from the driver’s license for illegally stopping on the expressway. Under current regulations, a driver’s license carries 12 points, and losing all points results in a driving ban. Drivers who lose all points must wait at least six months before retaking the driving test.
According to Decree 168, effective from the beginning of this year, drivers who improperly stop or park on expressways—such as using emergency lanes without activating hazard lights—face fines ranging from VND12 million to VND14 million, double the previous penalty.
The Noi Bai – Lao Cai Expressway stretches 265 km, connecting Hanoi with Lao Cai Province, home to tourist city Sa Pa. The Noi Bai – Yen Bai section has four lanes and two emergency lanes, while the Yen Bai – Lao Cai section has two lanes and two emergency lanes, with speed limits ranging from 80 to 100 kph depending on the segment.