Jaywalking fines continue to grow, close to 200 weekly

The Public Security Police Force (PSP) has reportedly fined almost 200 people for jaywalking violations committed between February 10 and 16.

The number of people caught and fined for this type of traffic offense has been progressively growing, with fines almost doubling between late December last year and early January this year.

According to the PSP, 187 people were prosecuted for jaywalking in that week. The force has vowed to continue closely monitoring these cases, particularly in areas where proper pedestrian crossings are available.

The 187 fines issued in a week amount to an average of about 27 per day, a figure higher than last year’s average of about 23 daily penalties.

The PSP noted that infractions, including crossing roads at locations not designated as crossings (such as when a zebra crossing is within 50 meters) or ignoring red pedestrian signals, carry a MOP 300 fine.

The PSP stated that this strict enforcement of the rules ensures the safety of pedestrians and vehicles, following many complaints from residents and road users and several accidents caused by illegal road crossings.

Despite increased enforcement, which has resulted in many fines, the phenomenon seems far from being curbed. People frequently cross Macau’s streets unlawfully.

Last week, a man was hit by a vehicle while allegedly crossing illegally at Avenida Leste do Hipódromo, in yet another serious incident of this kind.