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Police will run a territory-wide campaign tomorrow (September 16) to remind drivers of public service vehicles and goods vehicles of the importance of safe driving.
The two-week campaign, to last until September 29, includes both publicity on safe driving and enforcement against traffic offences.
During the first week of the campaign, Police officers will distribute leaflets of the Safe Driving Code for Goods Vehicles to goods vehicles drivers and remind them of the importance of safe loading and safe speed. Police officers will also distribute publicity leaflets, including Project Safe-Ride leaflets, to drivers of public service vehicles and members of the public. People are encouraged to report undesirable driving behaviour to the Police or call the Transport Complaints Unit of the Transport Advisory Committee on 2889 9999. They can also call direct to the 24-hour Police Transport Hotline 2754 7668 to report driving misbehaviour of public light bus drivers.
Stringent enforcement actions will be taken in the second week against traffic offences including speeding, following too close to the vehicle in front, failing to comply with traffic signals, using a hand-held mobile phone while driving, and seatbelt-related offences.
According to Police figures, a total of 11 562 persons were injured in traffic accidents in the first eight months of 2009, a decrease of 8.4 per cent when compared with 12 624 persons in the same period of 2008. These accidents were mainly the result of driving inattentively, following too close to the vehicle in front, changing lane carelessly, losing control of vehicles and careless cycling.
"We hope that the campaign will enhance public awareness of road safety in pursuit of the road safety vision: 'Zero Accidents on the Road, Hong Kong's Goal'," a Police spokesman said.
Police Report No. 4
Ends/Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Issued at HKT 12:19
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