In effect from January 1, 2025, a new government decree introducing much higher fines on road traffic breaches is expected to help promote a civilized lifestyle in Vietnam.

Under the decree, traffic offenders have to pay far more for each infraction.

Many road users have grown accustomed to violating traffic regulations, such as running red lights, riding on sidewalks, driving against one-way traffic, or not wearing helmets, due to the previously low fines.

Since the new decree took effect, many drivers have been shocked by the much higher fines, which could cost them an entire month’s salary.

Even minor offenses, like failing to yield to pedestrians at zebra crossings, now carry severe penalties.

As a result, numerous commuters have expressed frustration over the unaffordable fines, fearing they may face financial difficulty.

However, many others threw their support behind the fines, believing that stiff penalties will deter drivers from breaking traffic laws.

When thinking of the hefty fines, they will drive carefully and will not get involved in even minor infractions.

In the past, many countries faced chaotic traffic and widespread littering.

However, through efforts to stabilize social order, enhance environmental protection, and impose strict sanctions, these nations saw significant improvements in public hygiene and traffic conditions.

Vietnam is now following a similar path to build a more civilized society.

Although it began later than some other nations, Vietnam is on track to achieve its goal with strong determination.

With the introduction of more substantial fines, most drivers and riders have adhered to traffic rules more strictly in recent days.

They stop at the red lights and no longer speed up at yellow lights, ride on sidewalks, and drive in the opposite direction.

As per the decree, car drivers who fail to comply with traffic lights, including running red lights, shall get a fine of VND18-20 million (US$707-786), up from the previous VND4-6 million ($157-236).

The same fines are imposed on drivers who travel against traffic on one-way streets or streets with ‘no entry’ signs.

A severe penalty of VND20-22 million ($786-864), 27-30 times higher than the previous fine of VND400,000-600,000 ($16-24), is levied on those who open car doors unsafely and cause accidents.

In addition, drivers showing reckless driving behaviors such as zigzagging, speeding, or steering with feet are subject to fines of up to VND50 million ($1,965), a sharp spike from VND12 million ($471) before.

Drivers reversing on expressways are to be fined up to VND40 million ($1,572), more than double the past maximum of VND18 million ($707).

Other violations, including automobile drivers using phones or electronic devices while driving, result in fines of VND4-6 million ($157-236), twice the old penalties.

For motorbike riders, if they run red lights, they shall be fined up to VND6 million, significantly higher than the previous rates of VND0.8-1 million ($31-39).

Other fines on riders violating traffic rules were also revised up sharply.

* This is an adapted translation of Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Dien's Vietnamese article, first published on January 4, 2025 on Tuoi Tre Online, one of Tuoi Tre's publications.

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