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Police conducted a territory-wide operation against overloaded vehicles yesterday (September 3) and six people were arrested for overloading related offences.
With the assistance of Motor Vehicle Examiners, on-street vehicle examining stations were set up during the operation to inspect goods vehicles. A total of 236 vehicles were checked, 67 verbal warnings, 124 fixed penalty tickets and 23 summonses were issued during the operation.
Enforcement against overloaded vehicles is one of the prioritised traffic enforcement actions by the Police. Overloaded vehicles may damage the roads and put other road users at risk. They may put strain on the steer and tires, causing the vehicle to be more volatile whilst in motion. Excessive loads may also affect the braking system of a vehicle and the consequences of which could be fatal.
It is an offence to drive or use an overloaded goods vehicle on a road. Offenders are liable on first conviction to a fine of $5,000 and imprisonment for 3 months and on second or subsequent conviction to a fine of $10,000 and imprisonment for 6 months. The owner of the overloaded vehicles may also commit an offence and is liable on first conviction to a fine of $5,000 and on second or subsequent conviction to a fine of $10,000.
The Police will continue to take enforcement actions against overloaded vehicles with a view to improving road safety in Hong Kong.
Police Report No. 7
Ends/Friday, September 4, 2009
Issued at HKT 22:51
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