The Transport Bureau has proposed sweeping amendments to the territory’s Road Traffic Act, with implications for both drivers and pedestrians, TDM reports.
Amendments in the new bill include a demerit point system for poor drivers, increased penalties for driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, banning pedestrians from using their phones while crossing roads, and tightening up seat belt rules.
The proposed amendments come amid news that the number of traffic-related accidents in Macao increased by 21 percent between 2022 and 2023.
If the bill passes, the demerit point system will see drivers who commit traffic offences or fail to comply with police orders earn one demerit point and be liable to a fine.
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Accumulating six demerit points would result in a three-month driving ban. Twelve points will see a driver banned for six months, after which their points will return to zero.
Drivers with five demerit points will be eligible to sit a refresher driving course at their own expense. Passing the test would reduce the demerit point tally to two.
Meanwhile, the minimum fine for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol will go up to 1,500 patacas under the proposed amendments. The bill would also make it compulsory for drivers and passengers in heavy goods vehicles and “side-by-side” off-road vehicles to wear seatbelts, or face a 300 pataca fine. (Currently, Macao mandates that belts be worn by drivers and front seat passengers in regular vehicles, light vehicles and taxis.)
Pedestrians on mobile phones or using video recording dives while crossing roads would encounter the same fine (hands-free devices would be permitted, however). Those who disregard traffic signs banning pedestrians from certain areas would face a 900 pataca fine.
