Laws on passenger seat belts on public light buses effective from August 1

The Transport Department reminds the public that the new legislation concerning passenger seat belts on public light buses (PLBs) will come into effect on Sunday (August 1).

The new legislation states:

	PLBs registered on or after August 1, 2004 are required to be fitted with seat belts and high back seats;
	With effect from August 1, 2004, PLB passengers must wear seat belts if they are installed on their seats.

At a press briefing today (July 26), Senior Engineer (Road Safety) of Transport Department Mr Edmond Fok said, the new legislation would further enhance the safety of PLB passengers.

"From August 1, it is the responsibility of the passenger to ensure that he/she is securely fastened to his/her seat by means of a seat belt available on the public light bus," Mr Fok said. "Any passenger who is found not wearing a seat belt when it is provided will be subject to a maximum fine of $5,000 and three months' imprisonment.

"PLB drivers are encouraged to remind the passengers to wear seat belts. They may refuse to drive the PLB if a passenger in the PLB refuses to wear a seat belt installed on the vehicle."

Each seat belt must be used by only one person at a time. If three children aged three or over of body height less than 1.3 m counting as two adults take the PLB, the "excess" child will not need to wear a seat belt since it will not be available to him.

A pregnant woman also has to wear a seat belt if provided when riding a PLB. As with the existing mechanism of other vehicles, anyone wishing to apply for an exemption from the Transport Department should supply a valid medical certificate.

Under section 5(1)(b) and 121(1) of the Road Traffic (Construction and Maintenance of Vehicles) Regulations, the driver or the owner of the vehicle will be responsible for the proper maintenance and functioning of seat belts and high back seats on PLBs.

Ends/Monday, July 26, 2004