Draft traffic law proposes mobile phone ban

A new draft bill amending the Road Traffic Law proposes, among other things, to ban pedestrians’ use of mobile phones as well as other electronic equipment such as photo and video cameras while crossing the streets and roads of Macau.

The bill has been introduced at the Legislative Assembly (AL) for discussion.

Under the bill’s Article 72, Number 6, pedestrians are prohibited from using mobile phones, other telecommunications devices or photo or video camera equipment when crossing the road. Offenders could be fined MOP300 (the same amount as fines imposed on those who cross roads except in designated sections and times).

The use of mobile phones and other communication devices will only be permitted in instances where users are using a hands-free system, like when driving vehicles.

Although the government did not explain the reasons for the new law, it might be to tackle the recent trend, practiced mostly by tourists but also by some locals, of photo-taking in public streets and roads.

Harsher fines (MOP900) are proposed for cases where pedestrians disobey road signage that forbids pedestrian traffic in locations such as bridges, tunnels and overpasses.

New rules for wheelchairs and mobility scooters

The new bill contains provisions affecting wheelchairs and mobility scooters when these are used on the street or at a road crossing.

The bill prohibits people who do not have mobility impairments from using any mobility assistance devices such as motorized wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

It provides that such equipment can only carry one person and should be operated without putting other street-users at risk.

Balance bikes, skateboards and scooters (recreational vehicles consisting of a footboard mounted on two or three wheels with a long steering handle), whether foot-propelled or electric, are prohibited from being used on public roads. Offenders could face a MOP600 fine.

Higher speeding and DUI fines

The new bill also proposes to increase the penalties for several behaviors related to driving such as speeding and driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs.

The fines will be increased to a minimum of MOP1,500 for all these offences with those being considered re-offenders paying double the amounts.

Less importance seems to have been attributed to wrong-way driving which, although being a very dangerous conduct, is targeted with a minimum fine of MOP1,000.

The AL has not yet scheduled a date for the first reading of the bill.