The Police will hold a five-day territory-wide operation starting from tomorrow (December 2) to December 6 to encourage safe driving among drivers of public service vehicles including taxis, franchised buses, public light buses, private light buses and private school buses.

     During the operation, Police will take stringent enforcement actions 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.

     From January to October 2016, there were 5,584 traffic accidents involving public service vehicles, causing 7,525 casualties and 38 fatalities. 3,274 accidents involving taxis and 1,799 accidents involving franchised buses.

     Police spokesman said that the main contributory factors to the accidents were drivers driving inattentively, driving too close to the vehicle in front, careless lane changing, failing to ensure the safety of passengers, and improper or illegal turn.

     The Police reminded members of the public that traffic accidents can be fatal. Public service vehicles drivers are urged to obey road traffic regulations, pay attention to road conditions, wear seatbelt and remind passengers to wear seatbelt.

     For more road safety information, please visit the Police website: www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/05_traffic_matters/enforcement.html.

Ends/Thursday, December 1, 2016
Issued at HKT 18:52

NNNN