TRAVELING at 60 kilometers per hour in a car in violation of speed limits will not be punished, according to a draft amendment to a traffic violation punishment regulation that has been submitted for a second deliberation.

This is said to be in reference to practices in developed countries and aimed at improving road efficiency. However, when passing areas like schools, kindergartens and residential communities, speeding at up to 60 kmph is still subject to fines. The amendment does not apply to large and medium-sized trucks, trailers, large and medium-sized passenger vehicles and trucks carrying hazardous materials.

It is worth noting that the new rule does not mean that drivers can run freely on roads as long as they keep their speed below 60 kilometers per hour. If an accident happens, drivers will be required to bear legal responsibilities.

Shenzhen is also ramping up efforts to punish unruly traffic behaviors. The draft amendment further raises the fines for some violations.

The draft amendment stipulates that drivers who change more than one lane at a time, or fail to turn on their signal before changing lanes, turning or pulling over, will be fined 500 yuan (US$70). The fine was set at 300 yuan during the first deliberation.

Honking horns in prohibited areas or on roads will result in a fine of 500 yuan. Additionally, the draft amendment specifies a fine of 300 yuan for electric bicycle drivers who disobey traffic signals or drive the wrong way.

Drunk electric bicycle drivers will be fined between 500 yuan and 2,000 yuan according to the situation. Pedestrians who illegally enter highways or expressways will be fined 200 yuan.

Scooters, roller skates and self-balancing electric scooters are not allowed on vehicle lanes. Violators will be fined 100 yuan.

(Wang Jingli)