TAC supports Government's implementation of new law on mandatory fitting and wearing of seat belts
******************************************************************************************
The Chairman of the Transport Advisory Committee (TAC), Professor Wong Sze-chun, expressed his support today (January 27) for the Government's implementation of the new law requiring the mandatory fitting and wearing of seat belts, further enhancing the safety of passengers and road users.
Professor Wong said, "The TAC supports the Government's new seat belt law and believes that passenger safety should always be the top priority. The new law extends existing mandatory requirements on the installation and use of seat belts applicable to private cars, taxis and public light buses, to other vehicle types, further safeguarding passenger safety. The TAC has been briefed by the Government on the legislative proposal, and members have expressed their general support.
"Research shows that wearing seat belts can reduce the risk of death and serious injury in traffic accidents by approximately 40 per cent and 70 per cent, respectively, and mandatory use is an effective way to increase seat belt usage. Other places, such as the Chinese Mainland, Australia, and the United Kingdom, already have similar legal requirements concerning the wearing of seat belts on public transport vehicles, and the new law ensures Hong Kong passengers receive better protection as well.
"The fatal traffic accident on Tai Po Road in 2018 prompted a deep reflection on how we can better safeguard passenger safety. To prevent similar serious casualties from happening again, after thorough researches and discussions, the Government implemented the new regulations, which are reasonable and necessary.
"I noticed that the new law includes provisions allowing passengers to present reasonable excuses, and I am pleased to see that the Police has stated that they will adopt a balanced approach of exercising law, reason, and empathy in enforcement. I also support the Government's efforts to enhance publicity and public education in the initial stage of implementation. Further elaboration of the new legal requirements to drivers, passengers and relevant trades will help the public understand that the new regulations aim to protect their safety."
Ends/Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Issued at HKT 20:01
Issued at HKT 20:01
NNNN