AROUND 88 percent of drivers have used their turn signals when making turns or changing lanes, according to random data collection by police Tuesday, 50 percent higher than the average in the week of Nov. 11-17.

The police chose 11 intersections and conducted 30 minutes of data collection covering 901 vehicles. The result showed 802 drivers used their signals when turning.

The police also used remote-controlled video cameras to capture drivers that failed to turn on signals while turning or changing lanes.

According to the new regulation that took effect Nov. 1, those who fail to use turn signals when turning or changing lanes will be fined 300 yuan (US$43) and have one penalty point added to their license. Under the new traffic regulation, a driver can change one lane at a time and must drive in one lane for at least three seconds before changing to the next lane. If they cross more than one lane at a time, they will be fined 500 yuan. Suddenly changing or pulling over to the side of the road to park without signaling will result in a 300-yuan fine.

The new regulation also raises the punishment for illegally using high beam lights from 300 yuan to 500 yuan. Vehicles can only use high-beam headlights at night when there are no street lights or auxiliary lighting in the area. The 500-yuan fine will be doubled to 1,000 yuan upon the third violation within a year.

The regulation also clarifies the responsibilities involved in turning right at a red light and the purchasing and sale of license points.

When stopped at a red light at an intersection, the vehicles that are allowed to turn right must yield to through-cars coming from the other direction and pedestrians. Violators will be fined 500 yuan.  

(Han Ximin)