RoadRoad Users’Users’ CodeCode

PreparedPrepared by by the the Transport Transport Department Department TheThe Government Government of of the the DesignedDesigned by by the the Information Information Services Services Department Department PrintedPrinted by by the the Government Government Logistics Logistics Department Department HongHong Kong Kong Special Special Administrative Administrative Region Region HongHong Kong Kong Special Special Administrative Administrative Region Region Government Government $42 JuneJune 2020 2020 Edition Edition EffectiveEffective from from 19 19 June June 2020 2020 Prepared by the Transport Department Designed by the Information Services Department Printed by the Government Logistics Department Copyright Reserved ‛Pursuant to the Ordinance, a failure on the part of any person to observe any rule or follow any advice in the Road Usersʼ Code is in itself not an offence, but any such failure may be taken into account in any proceedings (whether civil or criminal, and including proceedings for an offence under the Road Traffic Ordinance) when deciding if a road user was at fault or not and to what extent, and may also be relied on for establishing or negativing any liability under any of these proceedings. It should however be noted that many of the rules in the Road Usersʼ Code directly reflect the law and a person not observing these rules may be committing an offence. Changes in legislation may render parts of the Code incorrect. In all instances, the prevailing legislation takes precedence.ʼ

Further enquiry For enquiries, please contact the Transport Department through 1823 as follows: Telephone hotline 1823 Fax hotline 2760 1823 E-mail address [email protected] Road Users’ Code

The Government of the Special Administrative Region How to use this Book This book contains a wide Chapter 1 Chapter 4 Chapter 6 Chapter 9 range of rules, advice and For All Road Users For Cyclists For Professional Drivers Children and Elderly information for all types of This self-contained chapter This chapter gives additional People as Road Users road users covering most Everyone should read this It gives an covers the basic needs for rules for drivers of commercial Children are road users too road and traffic conditions. chapter. introduction about the Road novice as well as experienced vehicles and for transport of but they may not be able to It is divided into chapters for Users’ Code with rules, advice cyclists. Advice is given on goods. follow the rules and advice different users and information, including the selecting and maintaining a given to passengers, with additional chapters traffic law for all road users. safe cycle, preparing yourself It is intended to be read in pedestrians and cyclists as covering special topics. Each for the road and riding on the addition to Chapter 5. appropriate. This chapter is chapter contains a number of Chapter 2 road. Chapter 7 intended for those responsible topics. Some of these topics For Pedestrians for children as road users so are inter-related, while some For Riders of Motor Cycles Cyclists may also find that they can guide children are self-contained. Everyone should read this and Motor Rules and advice for some of the topics in on the road, or teach children chapter. This chapter gives additional It is not just a book for casual using pavements and , Chapter 5 of interest. those rules and advice from rules for riders of motor cycles reading. It is a book to be crossing the road and using Chapter 5 the Road Usersʼ Code and motor tricycles. Some used, to be dipped into, and crossing places are given. The appropriate to their needs and For All Drivers rules and advice are also to be referred to constantly. Road Crossing Code and how development. It also contains given for their passengers. to use it are fully explained. All drivers and riders of advice for elderly people as To get the best from the book, There is also advice for users motor vehicles should read pedestrians and passengers first identify which chapters . It is intended to be read in of handcarts and those in this self-contained chapter of public transport. and topics meet your needs. It describes many of the traffic addition to Chapter 5. charge of animals. Read them carefully and make situations and road features Chapter 8 Chapter 10 sure you understand the rules, Chapter 3 and gives rules and advice for The Language of the Road Emergencies advice and information given. For Passengers safe behaviour. Much of the Some of the topics may not knowledge and understanding Everyone should read this Everyone should read this . It describes the It gives advice to be of direct interest to you, Everyone should read this that learner drivers will need chapter chapter. It contains rules and different signals used by road drivers on what to do in an depending on your needs. chapter. to demonstrate in the written advice for using public users to communicate with emergency, such as a traffic You may wish to read some of and practical driving tests can transport as well as advice for each other. It also features accident or vehicle the other chapters so that you be gained from this chapter. private car passengers. most of the traffic signs, traffic breakdown. It also gives can understand the needs of light signals and road advice to anyone who arrives other road users or as markings you will find on the at the scene of an accident, preparation for the future. roads of Hong Kong and so they can help prevent gives their meanings. further injuries and give aid to any injured persons and others involved in the accident.

2 Contents Chapter 1 26 Using Light Rail Vehicles 60 Cyclists 92 Where Not to Park 119 Temporary Signs and For All Road Users or 61 Other Road Users 94 Where to Park Road Markings 4 The Road Usersʼ Code 27 Using Public Light 62 White Lines and 95 Parking 121 Direction Signs 5 The Road Usersʼ Code , Taxis or Private Traffic 122 Traffic Signs giving Cars Chapter 6 and the Law 63 Double White Lines Information 28 Persons with Disabilities For Professional Drivers Chapter 2 64 Light Rail Lanes 124 Road Markings giving 96 Commercial Vehicles Warning and Information For Pedestrians Chapter 4 65 Lanes 98 Loads, Long Vehicles, 125 Road Markings giving 6 Using Roads and For Cyclists 66 One-Way Roads Towing Orders Pavements 29 67 Narrow Roads, 99 Restrictions 128 Strategic Route Numbers 8 The Road Crossing 30 You and Your Cycle Steep Hills Code Chapter 7 31 Safe Cycling 68 Dual Carriageways Chapter 9 10 Using the Road For Riders of Motor Cycles 32 Giving Signals 69 Roads with Faster Traffic Children and Elderly People Crossing Code and Motor Tricycles as Road Users 33 Riding on the Road 70 Expressways and 12 Crossing Roads near 100 Before You Ride 130 Children on the Road 36 Turning and Junctions Trunk Roads Parked Vehicles 101 Riding Along 132 Elderly People on the 37 Using 73 Areas and 13 Crossing at or near a 102 Positioning Road 38 Cycleways Control Areas with no Traffic 103 Signals, Passengers, 74 Junctions Chapter 10 Lights and Carrying Loads Chapter 5 Emergencies 14 Crossing Places 78 Junctions For All Drivers Chapter 8 79 Stop and 133 Breakdowns and 15 Using ʻZebraʼ Crossings 41 Driving Give Way Junctions The Language of the Road Emergencies 16 Using ʻGreen Man’ 42 Safety Checks 104 Signals 134 Warning other Drivers Crossings 80 Roundabouts 43 Seat Belts 106 Traffic Lights 135 Traffic Accidents 17 Pedestrian Lights 82 Junctions with Dual 45 Child Safety in Cars Carriageways 107 Traffic Lights for Drivers 137 In an Emergency 18 Crossing the Road at and Cyclists Traffic Light Junctions 46 Airbags 84 ʻZebraʼ Crossings 138 First Aid on the Road 47 Driver Education 85 ʻGreen Manʼ Crossings 108 Signals 20 No-Crossing Zones Traffic Accidents 49 Before Moving Off 109 Signing System 21 Handcarts, Animals, 86 Bright Sunlight, In an emergency at the site Marching Groups 50 On the Road Driving at Night 111 Traffic Signs giving of a traffic accident, go to Orders 22 Persons with Disabilities 54 Stopping Distance 87 Rain, , Wind 137 What to do 115 Traffic Signals giving 55 How Fast 88 Road Works Chapter 3 Orders 138 First aid For Passengers 56 Overtaking 89 Road Works on Dual Carriageways/in 116 Traffic Signs giving 24 Public Transport 58 Pedestrians Warning Further Reference 90 Where Not to Stop Materials 25 Using Buses 3 Chapter 1 For All Road Users For All Road Users The Road Users’ Code Introduction The Road Usersʼ Code lays Rules and advice for all Traffic signs, traffic light Signals down the rules of behaviour The safe and efficient use of road users signals and road markings and gives advice on when and the road system depends on Avoid any behaviour likely to how to follow them. all road users following the put any person in danger, to same rules of behaviour. The Road Usersʼ Code also cause damage to public or gives safety advice, and private property, or to obstruct Some of the rules are also laid explains and gives advice on other road users. down by law. These rules help different traffic conditions and you avoid dangerous Do not obstruct other road road features, including traffic behaviour. They also let you users or make their passage signs, traffic light signals and know what behaviour you can dangerous by throwing, road markings that you will Know the meaning of signals, expect from other road users depositing or leaving any come across when driving or including arm signals, given and what behaviour they can object or substance on the out . by drivers (including riders of expect from you. pavement or the roadway. Know your traffic signs, traffic motor cycles and motor You should be familiar with the If you are unable to avoid However, rules are not light signals and road tricycles) and cyclists. Look rules and advice given in the creating an obstruction in enough. You also need to markings, and act on them. out for their signals and take latest edition of the Road that way, take the necessary understand the dangers of They are illustrated throughout necessary action promptly Usersʼ Code and follow them steps to remove it as soon traffic and the difficulties this book – often with the (For information about signals, whenever you are on or near a as possible. In case an others may have in using the associated traffic or road see Chapter 8). road. obstruction cannot be road. You need to understand features. removed immediately, you You must promptly obey how to cope with different You should make allowance should give warning to other The traffic signs, traffic light all signals given by police traffic conditions and road and be prepared for other road users. signals and road markings officers, traffic wardens, features. You also need to road users who may make commonly found on the roads or other authorised persons know the ʻlanguage of the mistakes or do not follow the You should make allowance are illustrated in Chapter 8. (for example, the authorised roadʼ – the different signals rules and advice given in the for and/or help children, personnel at tunnel area or used by road users to Road Usersʼ Code. disabled persons or elderly control area, or school communicate with each other people and others who may crossing patrols). and the meanings of traffic have difficulty in getting signs, traffic light signals and around such as people with road markings. injuries or travelling with children or luggage.

4 For All Road Users The Road Users’ Code and the Law The first edition of the Road and Bylaws should be • Road Traffic (Expressway) Ordinance (Cap. 474), • Motor Vehicle Idling Users’ Code was approved by referred to: Regulations (Cap. 374Q) Regulation (Cap. 474B) and (Fixed Penalty) Ordinance the former Governor in Council Bylaw (Cap. 474C) (Cap. 611) and Regulation • Road Traffic Ordinance • Road Traffic (Driving- and Legislative Council under (Cap. 611A) (Cap. 374) offence Points) Ordinance • Tsing Ma Control Area section 109 of the Road Traffic (Cap. 375) Ordinance (Cap. 498), Other Ordinances, Ordinance (Cap. 374) in 1987 • Road Traffic (Construction Tsing Ma Control Area Regulations and Bylaws not and the Code has since been and Maintenance of • Fixed Penalty (Tolls, Fees and Charges) listed above may also contain updated from time to time. Vehicles) Regulations (Traffic Contraventions) Regulation (Cap. 498A) laws applicable to road users. (Cap. 374A) Ordinance (Cap. 237) and The alterations of this edition and Tsing Ma Control Area Regulations (Cap. 237A) have been approved by the • Road Traffic (Driving (General) Regulation For persons carrying out Secretary for Transport and Licences) Regulations • Fixed Penalty (Criminal (Cap. 498B) road and other works Housing under section 109 of (Cap. 374B) Proceedings) Ordinance • Tsing Sha Control Area All road works and works the Road Traffic Ordinance and (Cap. 240) and Regulations • Road Traffic (Parking) Ordinance (Cap. 594), adjacent to the road create subsequently laid before the (Cap. 240A) Regulations (Cap. 374C) Tsing Sha Control Area inconvenience and are a Legislative Council. • Motor Vehicles Insurance (General) Regulation potential hazard to the safety • Road Traffic (Public Service (Third Party Risks) (Cap. 594A) and Tsing Sha of all road users and those Road users are reminded of Vehicles) Regulations Ordinance (Cap. 272) and Control Area (Tolls, Fees carrying out the works. Rules the statement on the inside (Cap. 374D) of the front cover. Regulations (Cap. 272A) and Charges) Regulation and advice for persons • Road Traffic (Registration (Cap. 594B) responsible for carrying out The traffic signs, traffic light • Housing (Traffic) By-laws and Licensing of Vehicles) works on the road can be signals, road markings and (Cap. 283A) and Housing • Western Harbour Crossing Regulations (Cap. 374E) found in the ʻCode of Practice signals illustrated in this book (Traffic Contraventions) Ordinance (Cap. 436), for the Lighting, Signing and are prescribed by various (Fixed Penalty) Bylaw Regulation (Cap. 436C) • Road Traffic Guarding of Road Worksʼ Regulations or are authorised (Cap. 283C) and Bylaw (Cap. 436D) (Safety Equipment) published by the Highways by the Commissioner for Regulations (Cap. 374F) • Road Tunnels (Government) • Tramway Ordinance Department. Transport. • Road Traffic (Traffic Control) Ordinance (Cap. 368) and (Cap. 107), Prevention of For the precise wording of Regulations (Cap. 374G) Regulations (Cap. 368A) Nuisances and Regulation the law and representation of Travelling Rules • Road Traffic • Link of prescribed traffic signs/ (Cap. 107A) and Tramway (Village Vehicles) Ordinance (Cap. 520), road markings and traffic Regulations (Cap. 107B) Regulations (Cap. 374N) Regulation (Cap. 520A) and light signals, the following Bylaw (Cap. 520B) • Public Bus Services • Road Traffic (Parking on Ordinances, Regulations Ordinance (Cap. 230) and Private Roads) Regulations • Tai Lam Tunnel and Yuen Regulations (Cap. 230A) (Cap. 374O) Long Approach Road

5 Chapter 2 For Pedestrians For Pedestrians Using Roads and Pavements Before you go out keep away from the kerb. Walking at night When it rains Avoid walking close to the Try not to go out unless you When walking at night, try to Visibility will be reduced by kerb with your back to the are fit and able to carry out keep to the pavement areas rain. It helps if your raincoat, traffic. your journey safely. with the best lighting. other clothes and umbrella Look out for entrances and are of a light, bright colour Avoid going out if you are At night, although you can exits of driveways. Before that show up easily on rainy under the influence of drink or see the headlights of a crossing a , look all or foggy days. drugs. Wear glasses or vehicle, the driver often around for approaching traffic hearing aids if you need them cannot see you. When the Road surfaces become and listen. If there is no when out on the road. Always is wet and shiny, slippery when it rains. Braking approaching traffic likely to wear or carry something white reflections and glare can and stopping distances of use the driveway, walk or light-coloured or reflective make it even more difficult for cars and other vehicles straight across it. Do not loiter in the dark or in poor light. the driver to see you. increase and so they cannot in a driveway. This is particularly important stop quickly. You are also Drivers become tired more on roads without pavements. You must not enter or walk more likely to slip. easily at night and their Reflective material can be in a tunnel area or control abilities to concentrate and seen in headlights from up to area, except taking or see decline. It is also difficult three times the distance of alighting from a franchised for pedestrians to judge the ordinary clothes; fluorescent bus at a bus stop. Traffic speed and distance of material is highly conspicuous signs are erected to mark approaching traffic. in daylight and at dusk but is the beginning and end of of little use in the dark. tunnel area or control area There is a tendency at night (see page 73 for the signs). for drivers to be momentarily You must not walk past a and partially blinded by the Out and about You must not enter or walk traffic sign banning headlights of approaching When using any roads and within the boundaries of an Warning sign – Beware of pedestrians or walk in the vehicles. This means, for pavements, you must take expressway or light rail area. reversing vehicles road to which the ban applies. example, that it is even more proper care not to put yourself Traffic signs are erected to These signs are often found dangerous to stand on the The sign is installed on cul- or any other person in danger. indicate their start and end near elevated roads, flyovers roadway between traffic lanes de-sac or narrow service To use the roads safely, you points (see pages 71 and and underpasses. Even if at night than in the daytime. road where there is frequent should read and follow the 111 for the signs). there is no such sign, do not reversing of goods vehicles rules and advice in this enter or walk along such into or out of the road. You chapter. roads unless there is a may be forced to walk on Where there is a pavement or specially provided pavement. the roadway due to narrow , use it. Do not step footpath. Look all around for onto, stand or walk on the traffic, in particular, reversing roadway if at all possible. vehicles, and take special When using the pavement, care of children/the elderly. 6 For Pedestrians

Where there is no pavement If it is necessary to stand or Closed pavements Footpath adjoining cycleway Emergency vehicles walk on the roadway, do so in Keep off the roadway if you a position where you can see see or hear the approach of the approach of traffic and ambulances, fire engines, where approaching drivers police or other emergency can also see you. On a normal vehicles with their lights two-way road, this is the right- flashing or their two-tone horns hand side facing oncoming or sirens sounding. If crossing traffic. the road, try to complete your If the pavement is closed or crossing, or return to the Keep as close as possible to blocked due to road works, pavement or side of the road the side of the road. When look out for temporary as soon as possible. If you are walking with others, keep in diversion signs or alternative still on the pavement, do not single file if possible, routes. particularly in heavy traffic or start to cross until you are sure in poor visibility. Take special If there is no alternative to that all the emergency vehicles care at right-hand bends and the pavement and you have have passed and no more on the brow of a hill where to step onto the roadway, traffic is coming. Emergency visibility is poor. you should follow the advice vehicles may not follow all the for walking on roadway. If the traffic rules or obey all the Walk on the side of the road blockage or closure is for a traffic signs and signals if life is where you can take refuge by long distance, cross to the at risk. stepping off the road if traffic other side of the road Outside fire stations and other comes. If this means walking following the Road Crossing Do not walk on cycleways places housing emergency with your back to the traffic, Code (see page 8). If the which are for cycles. Walk vehicles, there may be special keep looking behind you to obstruction is only for a short only on footpath and keep traffic light signals (wig-wag watch out for traffic and keep distance, it may be safer to away from the edge of signal – two horizontal traffic listening at all times. Make walk on the roadway without cycleway. Look out for cyclists signal aspects showing sure approaching drivers can crossing to the other side, if you need to step onto or alternating red flashing light, see you. even though this may mean cross a cycleway (see pages see page 106) which will be walking with the traffic from 38 and 39 for information on switched on in an emergency If there is no pavement on behind. the traffic signs and road to stop the traffic and allow the either side of the road, use the Look all around for traffic markings used to mark emergency vehicles to leave. right-hand side of the road as before stepping onto the and cycleways). When the two red lights are much as possible to face roadway; often watch out for flashing, keep clear of the oncoming traffic, and if traffic from behind you and driveway in front of the station practicable keep off the return to the open pavement as soon as possible until the roadway and walk on the verge. as soon as possible. lights are off. 7

For Pedestrians The Road Crossing Code The Road Crossing Code is Step 3 – Look all around for Step 4 – If traffic is coming, a guide for all pedestrians. traffic and listen let it pass. Look all around It is a guide for crossing all Look carefully along every again roads, including the less busy road because traffic may be If there is traffic approaching, roads in housing estates. coming from all directions. let it pass. Then look around You should follow the Code And listen too, because you and listen again to make sure whenever you need to cross can sometimes hear traffic no other traffic is coming. or step onto a roadway even before you can see it. Look if you are using a pedestrian You have to decide whether out for vehicles and note crossing. you can cross the road which way they are moving, without putting yourself in If you are responsible for a and how fast. Look out for danger. You have to judge the child, also see Chapter 9 on stationary vehicles that may distance, speed, direction and advice for children. start to move. actions of approaching There are six basic steps that Look out for motor cycles and vehicles with regard to the need to be understood and cycles as they are not so easy time you need to cross the applied: Step 1 – First find a safe Step 2 – Stand on the to be seen as cars because of road. Do not expect a driver their relatively small size. to slow down for you. Look at Step 1 – First find a safe place to cross, then stop pavement near the kerb A cycle may be less easily vehicles to see if they are place to cross, then stop. It is safer to cross a road You should stop before noticed because it speeding up or slowing down, using nearby footbridges, crossing even if you think Step 2 – Stand on the approaches silently, while a whether they are overtaking or subways, ʻZebraʼ or ʻGreen nothing is coming, just to be pavement near the kerb. motor cycle may take you by changing lanes. Do not manʼ crossings, or where sure it is absolutely safe. You surprise because it expect drivers will keep to the Step 3 – Look all around for there is a police officer, traffic can see things much better if accelerates more quickly than speed limit. Look for any traffic and listen. warden or school crossing you stop and have a good other traffic. Listening is signals from drivers, either patrol controlling a crossing long look. Step 4 – If traffic is coming, usually helpful in detecting hand signals, flashing place. let it pass. Look all around Do not stand too near the motor cycles. However, indicators, or reversing lights again. If you cannot find any such edge of the pavement. Stop a electric/hybrid vehicles that may warn of a driverʼs crossing place, choose a little way back from the kerb – including motor cycles may actions, but be careful in case Step 5 – When there is no place where you can see where you will be away from operate very quietly. You need the signal is an error or the traffic near you, walk straight clearly along the roads in all traffic, but where you can still to look out for them in driver forgets to signal. Look across the road. directions, a place where you see if anything is coming. addition to listening. at the drivers to see if they Step 6 – Keep looking and can also see any traffic when have seen you. If there is no pavement, stand If it is noisy around you, listening for traffic while it is a long way off, and the back from the edge of the particularly near construction crossing. drivers can also see you road but where you can still works, it may be difficult to clearly. Keep walking on see traffic. hear, so take extra care when pavement until you find a looking out for traffic. safe place to cross. 8 For Pedestrians

any which you may not have Step 5 – When there is no Stopping distances for vehicles seen earlier. traffic near you, walk An important aspect in straight across the road Do not loiter or move judging if it is safe to cross When there is no traffic near unnecessarily slowly when a road is the stopping you, it is safe to cross. If traffic crossing the road, particularly distance. is approaching in the on a . The distance a vehicle distance, however, do not Do not carry out any other travels while a driver is cross unless you are certain activities, such as eating, thinking after he/she has there is plenty of time. Even if drinking, playing mobile seen and recognised danger traffic is a long way off, it may games, using mobile phone, and before he/she reacts is be coming very fast. listening to any audio device When it is safe, walk straight called the thinking distance. or talking while crossing the Allow more time to cross the across the road and not at an After the driver reacts by road. Give all your attention to road if you cannot see or hear angle. applying the brakes, it takes the traffic. very well due to poor visibility, Cross the full width of the time for the vehicle to slow noise or bad weather. road in one go to the other If something unexpected down and stop. The happens, depending on the distance travelled during this Decide the moment that the side or to a . Do circumstances and choices time is the braking distance. traffic situation is safe enough not cross one traffic lane at a available, stop, walk on, or Stopping The stopping distance is the and will remain so to give you time and do not wait in the step back as quickly as distance thinking distance plus the enough time to cross. Start middle of the road other than possible. Try to let the drivers braking distance. walking after checking all on an island. know what you intend to do. directions that nothing new The faster a vehicle is Use the centre line or the has happened. Step 6 – Keep looking and travelling or the heavier it is, traffic lane line as a stopping listening for traffic while the longer the braking Let the drivers know and react place in an emergency. crossing distance. On wet roads, all to your crossing. Walk so that you can keep If crossing in front of a vehicle vehicles need a much longer looking and listening for traffic. that has stopped to allow you braking distance. to cross, keep looking all Do not run. It is difficult to (See page 54 for more around and listening as you keep looking all around and to information on stopping walk and be sure to check listen while you are running, distance.) and you may trip in front of a traffic on the other lane when vehicle. you reach the edge of the stopped vehicle, in case Keep looking and listening for another vehicle does not stop braking distance vehicles that come into sight and suddenly passes the or come near you after you stopped vehicle. thinking distance have started to cross and for 9 For Pedestrians Using the Road Crossing Code Crossing where there is an island on the road Crossing a bus lane Crossing tracks Trams cannot swerve to avoid you if, for example, you fall. Look out for other vehicles as some traffic lanes are used by both trams and other vehicles. If using a tram stop island or a strip dividing the tram line from the rest of the road, look out for trams and other vehicles coming from both directions. Do not cross immediately behind or in front of a tram.

Crossing light rail tracks Other than the locations mentioned in Step 1, it is safer to Vehicles in bus lanes may be Light rail vehicles also cannot cross a road using islands. Use the Road Crossing Code to going faster than traffic in swerve to avoid you. When cross to the island. Stop there and use the Code again to other lanes, and some bus crossing light rail tracks, use cross the second part of the road. lanes may be in the opposite proper crossing facilities such direction to normal traffic. Always make sure that there will be sufficient space on the as footbridges or ʻGreen manʼ Do not wait on the white line island for you to wait safely and not too close to the traffic. crossings. Where no proper between the bus lane and the If the island is crowded with people waiting to cross, wait crossing facilities are available other lane, but cross the road until it is free before crossing. nearby, you should follow the in one go. Road Crossing Code and Use only kerbed islands. Do not wait in areas of roadway exercise extra care. hatched with white lines or on the roadway adjacent to an island. Do not use islands or central reservations that have Sign warning pedestrians of guard rails unless there are gaps provided for use by a bus lane with advice to look pedestrians. left. The sign may vary to give the advice ʻLOOK RIGHTʼ.

10 For Pedestrians

Crossing a one-way road Crossing a road with fast Guard rails Check which way the traffic traffic is going. On one-way roads, Use the Road Crossing Code there may be more than one but cross only if there is no lane of traffic going in the traffic approaching. same direction. Do not cross until it is safe to cross all the Crossing a road at night lanes of traffic. Continue to At night, it is more difficult for look all around while crossing drivers to see you and for you as there may be a vehicle to judge speeds of coming reversing or travelling the traffic. Try to cross near a Guard rails and pedestrian wrong way. street light so that drivers will barriers are often provided be able to see you more at places where stepping Crossing a busy road easily. onto or crossing the road Unless there is a pedestrian would be difficult or crossing, do not cross if the Crossing a road during dangerous. The traffic may Do not walk on the road side of guard rails. Do not cross a traffic flow is heavy without poor weather be particularly busy or there road where there are guard rails or a barrier on any island much variation and the gaps may be a hidden hazard. you may need to use or on the other side of the road – Take extra care in poor in the traffic are too few or too Guard rails are also provided unless there are gaps provided for pedestrians to cross the weather conditions, short to cross safely. If the to guide you to a nearby road. Check if there is also a gap in the guard rails on the particularly during heavy rain traffic flow varies, be patient crossing place. other side of the road before crossing. or in mist or fog. It is more and wait for a safe gap in the difficult for drivers to see you You must not climb over or Not all gaps in guard rails are there to provide a crossing traffic. Do not cross between and for you to see moving through guard rails, fences, place for pedestrians. Before crossing the road using a gap, stopped vehicles or those vehicles. If the road is slippery, barriers, or central or at the end of length of , check that it is a safe moving slowly in a queue. cross only if there is no traffic reservation on the road. place to cross the road. You should always follow Step 1 of approaching. Allow yourself the Road Crossing Code before crossing the road. more time to cross carefully.

11 For Pedestrians Crossing Roads near Parked Vehicles Try not to cross the road where there are parked vehicles. If you have to do so because other places would be more dangerous then • Choose a crossing place between parked private cars rather than larger vehicles such as lorries, as it is easier for you to see approaching traffic, and for drivers to see you. Choose as large a gap as you can. • If there are parked vehicles Look for a large gap between cars. When you have found a safe place to cross, go to the outside on both sides of the road, edge of the car and then stop. choose a gap between cars which has a gap on the Standing at the outside edge of the parked vehicles will make opposite side as well. it easier for you to see any approaching traffic, and also for drivers to see you. • Choose a place where you can see a long way up and You can now continue your crossing using the Road Crossing down the road, that is Code, Steps 3 to 6. choose to cross between • Step 3 – Look all around for traffic and listen. private cars rather than between lorries or vans • Step 4 – If traffic is coming, let it pass. Look all around which will block your view again. completely. • Step 5 – When there is no traffic near you, walk straight • Choose a gap between across the road. cars with no drivers. • Step 6 – Keep looking and listening for traffic while • Choose a place which is crossing. well away from vehicles Look all around for traffic and vehicles leaving parking spaces picking up or dropping Look for a gap between cars on both sides of the road. along the road. Be careful that some electric/hybrid vehicles passengers, or loading operate very quietly and not all drivers use signals. or unloading goods.

12 For Pedestrians Crossing at or near a Junction with no Traffic Lights Try not to cross at a junction unless there is a proper crossing place. If there is no proper crossing place at the junction, it will be safer to cross away from it where there are fewer traffic movement to look out for. Do not cross diagonally over a junction or use the centre island of a , unless there is a pedestrian crossing. Cross one arm of a junction at a time following the Road Crossing Code. Look out for Watch out for traffic turning into the road, particularly those rounding Do not cross diagonally over a junction. crossing places carefully, the corner from behind. Look over your . Cross each arm of the junction separately. particularly across a main road, and choose the safest route, trying to minimise the number of crossings. Watch out for turning traffic. Drivers, particularly at ʻGive wayʼ or ʻStopʼ lines, who may be preoccupied in looking for a safe gap in traffic, may not give way to you. Take into account signals given by a police officer or traffic warden in controlling traffic at a junction to judge whether the traffic is going to stop. If the police officer or traffic warden is also If the junction includes one-way road, pay particular attention to the Use proper crossing places wherever possible controlling pedestrians, you direction of coming traffic. particularly in crossing a main road. must wait for his or her signal to cross.

13 For Pedestrians Crossing Places Using crossing places Footbridges and subways They are normally sited at Crossings controlled by very busy places where Crossing aids are often authorised persons crossing the road at-grade provided to help you cross The next safest place to would be particularly busy roads. If there is a cross is a crossing place dangerous or difficult. crossing place nearby, use controlled by a police officer, it even though you have to If you are unable to use traffic warden or school walk further to do so. Direction sign showing a footbridge or subway crossing patrol – they know entrance to subway because you cannot go up best when it is safe to cross. Your safety when using and down the steps, try to You should wait at the crossing places depends find an alternative pedestrian pavement of the crossing near upon whether you are crossing at other place. the road and be within their following Steps 2 to 6 of the Many footbridges and view. You must not cross until Road Crossing Code and School crossing patrol sign subways have ramps, lifts they signal that you may do using the crossing in the or escalators in addition to so. Keep looking and listening correct way. Follow the rules Direction sign showing steps. for traffic on all sides as you and advice given in this entrance to footbridge cross. chapter. You do not need Footbridges, subways and You must not cross the to follow the Road Crossing elevated walkways are the road within 15 metres of a A school crossing patrol Code only when using safest places to cross busy footbridge or subway. You may direct any pedestrians, a footbridge or subway. roads as they keep must use the footbridge or not just school children, pedestrians well away from subway if you wish to cross. when to cross the road. You the dangers of traffic. can recognise a patrol by the special sign they carry to stop traffic.

Rules and advice on crossing places Footbridges – this page. ‘Green man’ crossings – page 16. Subways – this page. Crossing places at traffic light Crossings controlled by junctions – pages 18 and 19. authorised persons – this page. Crossing with islands – page 10. ‘Zebra’ crossings – opposite page.

14 For Pedestrians For Pedestrians Using ʻZebra’ Crossings ‘Zebra’ crossings are marked with alternate black and white stripes on the road and zigzag lines on both sides. The zigzag lines warn drivers that there may be pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross the road. They also tell drivers that they must give way to pedestrians on the crossing. A yellow beacon, usually If you need to cross the road and there is a ʻZebraʼ crossing Walk directly across the black and white stripes. Look out for School crossing patrol sign flashing, marks the location of the crossing. nearby, you should use it even though you may have to walk coming vehicles which may be overtaking those that have further to do so. already stopped before the ʻZebraʼ crossing. Follow the Road Crossing Code fully. Always give drivers plenty of time to see you, slow down and stop for you to cross. If necessary, put a small step on the crossing to indicate to coming drivers that you wish to cross. Until you have stepped onto a ʻZebraʼ crossing, the traffic does not have to stop for you. Make sure that the traffic has stopped before starting to cross. Check both directions of traffic, and wait until traffic has If there is an island in the middle of a ʻZebraʼ crossing, stop on stopped before starting to cross. it and follow the Road Crossing Code and the rules and advice You must never cross on on this page again. The next part of the crossing is a separate the zigzag lines, because ʻZebraʼ crossing. the drivers may not see you crossing on the zigzag lines or elsewhere in the area as their attention is on the crossing itself.

15 For Pedestrians Using ʻGreen Man’ Crossings You must not cross or start If traffic lights are not working, to cross if the pedestrian light treat the pedestrian crossing shows a ‘Red man’. You must as an ordinary cautionary also not start to cross if the crossing. Watch the traffic and pedestrian light shows a follow the Road Crossing flashing ‘Green man’. Code to cross the road with extreme caution.

ʻGreen manʼ crossings are pedestrian crossings with traffic lights to signal drivers to stop, and pedestrian lights to signal pedestrians when to cross. You will find ‘Green man’ When you arrive at the crossings either on their own crossing, stand on the or as part of traffic light pavement near the kerb. At junctions. The crossing is some crossings, you will find a marked by two rows of studs pedestrian push button; touch with yellow striped markings the push button and wait in between. To use a ‘Green (some ʻGreen manʼ crossings man’ crossing, follow will give green signal to pedestrian lights at page 17 pedestrian only when the and the Road Crossing Code. push button is touched). You must not cross within 15 Watch the pedestrian lights on metres on either side of the the traffic light pole on the crossing. other side of the road. When the steady ʻGreen manʼ light shows, you may cross with If there is an island in the middle of the crossing, stop on it care. and follow the Road Crossing Code and the rules and advice on this page again. The next part of the crossing is a separate crossing.

16 For Pedestrians Pedestrian Lights What they mean What to do using the Road Crossing Code

When you arrive If waiting to cross If crossing

A ʻRed manʼ light means Step 2 Steps 2 and 3 Step 6 that you must not cross or Wait on the pavement near Wait on the pavement near If the lights change to a start to cross the road. the kerb. If there is a the kerb. Sometimes it takes ʻRed manʼ, quickly finish your pedestrian push button, a while for the lights to crossing, but do not stop or touch it. change but you must not run and make sure drivers can cross even if there is no traffic see you. coming.

A ʻGreen manʼ light means Steps 2 to 6 Steps 3 to 6 Step 6 that you may cross the road if Look out for traffic that may Watch the traffic as well as Look out for traffic that may it is safe to do so. not stop even though the the lights. Wait until all the not stop even though the driver has a red light. traffic has stopped. driver has a red light.

A flashing ʻGreen manʼ light Step 2 Step 2 Step 6 means you must not start to Wait on the pavement near Wait on the pavement near You will have time to finish cross the road. the kerb. If there is a the kerb. your crossing or reach a pedestrian push button, central safely. touch it. Keep going at a steady pace.

17 For Pedestrians Crossing the Road at Traffic Light Junctions If there is a ʻGreen manʼ crossing as part of the traffic light system, follow the rules and advice for using a ʻGreen manʼ crossing (see page 16). If there are no pedestrian lights at the crossing, watch both the traffic lights and the traffic. Do not cross when the traffic lights allow traffic to go forward, even if you think you have enough time to cross. You should only cross when the traffic on the road you wish to cross is stopped by A ʻGreen manʼ crossing is marked by two rows of studs with Watch out the traffic as some traffic lights allow traffic to red light. Follow the Road yellow striped markings in between and has pedestrian lights. proceed in some lanes while traffic in other lanes are stopped. Crossing Code. Look out for traffic turning into the road which you are crossing. If traffic lights are not working, watch the traffic and follow the Road Crossing Code to cross the road with extreme caution.

If there is a path across the road marked by two lines of studs, Look out for traffic turning into the road which you are use that path to cross. At crossing with no pedestrian lights – crossing. The driver may not see you or give way to you. once you are sure the traffic lights for drivers are showing red

and that the traffic has stopped, you may cross but keep watching the traffic around. 18 For Pedestrians

At some junctions, the area Crossing North-west of roadway over which you Railway (light rail) may cross is marked with a Light rail vehicles can run at box of white criss-cross lines. very high speed and are quiet. Do not confuse this marking When crossing light rail with the yellow criss-cross tracks, use proper crossing lines for ‘box junction’ places including footbridges, marking for drivers – do not subways and ʻGreen manʼ cross on an area of roadway crossings. marked with yellow criss- cross lines. Certain sections of the tracks are laid along lightly trafficked roads where no proper The advisory white criss-cross crossing places are provided. lines for ‘pedestrian crossing Under such circumstance, areaʼ road marking – you may you should follow the Road cross on any path over the Crossing Code and exercise marking under green extra care when crossing the pedestrian signals. tracks.

The yellow criss-cross lines for ʻbox junctionʼ road marking for driver – do not cross over the marking.

19 For Pedestrians No-Crossing Zones Handcarts, Animals, Marching Groups Within ʻZebraʼ controlled areas Guard rails Light rail vehicles and Handcarts, trolleys trams only If you are using a handcart, trolley or any other pedestrian controlled vehicle, you need to take extra care to protect your safety and the safety of others. Use the pavement whenever possible, particularly with You must not cross a road within the controlled area marked The sign permits the entry of a small , but do not by zigzag lines. Use the ʻZebraʼ crossing. light rail vehicles and trams endanger or inconvenience only. You must not walk other pedestrians. Follow Near ʻGreen manʼ crossings beyond the sign. the rules and advice for pedestrians, particularly 15m when crossing the road. If you are using a large cart or the pavement is crowded or too narrow, you should use 15m the roadway. Wearing bright, light-coloured, fluorescent or You must not cross within 15 metres on either side of a ʻGreen You must not climb through or over any guard rails or barriers reflecting clothing will help manʼ crossing. You should use the crossing when the onto the roadway. other road users to see you, pedestrian light shows a ʻGreen manʼ and it is safe to do so. particularly at night or in poor visibility. Near footbridges and subways Central reservations When using the roadway, keep to the left and follow the rules and advice for drivers; it is important for your safety to obey traffic light signals and traffic signs. Do not push or pull your cart or trolley the 15m 15m wrong way along a one-way road or on the right-hand side You must not cross within 15 metres on either side of a You must not climb through or over any guard rails, barriers or of a two-way road. Give way foorbridge or subway. Use the footbridge or subway. central reservations. to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings. Keep looking 20 For Pedestrians Handcarts, Animals, Marching Groups Handcarts, trolleys behind regularly when moving person or traffic, for example along the road. by forcing pedestrians to step If you are using a handcart, onto the roadway. trolley or any other pedestrian controlled vehicle, you need Looking after your animals to take extra care to protect on the road your safety and the safety of others. Do not let your pet or animal out on its own. On the road, Use the pavement whenever you must keep it on a lead or possible, particularly with under proper control, and a small cart, but do not away from the roadway as far endanger or inconvenience as practicable. other pedestrians. Follow When you and your pet are on the rules and advice for wear a hard hat and light- Marching groups and You must not pass a traffic a pavement or the side of the pedestrians, particularly coloured, reflective or processions sign banning pedestrians or road (when there is no when crossing the road. fluorescent clothing. banning and pavement), walk between Organisers of marching groups If you are using a large cart or handcarts, or use the road to them and the traffic. If you are leading or herding or public processions should the pavement is crowded or which the ban applies. You animals, keep to the left of the make an application to the Riding a horse on roads with too narrow, you should use must not enter or use a tunnel road and look out for traffic police well in advance and follow traffic should be avoided. the roadway. Wearing bright, area or control area (see the particularly at places such as their advice given on using the However, if you have to ride a light-coloured, fluorescent or signs on page 73). bends and brows of hills roads. A group of people reflecting clothing will help horse on the road, make sure You must also not enter or where drivers may not be able marching on the road should other road users to see you, you can control it in traffic. use an expressway. Traffic to see you. If you need to keep to the left. There should particularly at night or in poor signs are installed to mark the Do not ride recklessly or walk with your back to the be look-outs in front and at the visibility. start and end points of an negligently, or at a speed or in traffic, keep looking behind back wearing reflective clothing When using the roadway, expressway (see the signs on a manner which is dangerous you to watch out for traffic at night and fluorescent clothing keep to the left and follow the page 71). to other road users. and keep listening at all times. by day. At night the look-out in Make sure approaching front should carry a white or rules and advice for drivers; When riding, keep to the left Try not to push your cart drivers can see you. After amber light, and the one at the it is important for your safety of the road. If you are leading along busy roads. Do not sunset, wear light-coloured or back a bright red or amber light to obey traffic light signals a horse, on foot or while riding use elevated roads, flyovers reflective clothing and carry visible from the rear. Additional and traffic signs. Do not push another, you should also keep or underpasses. lights which show white to the lights should be carried and or pull your cart or trolley the to the left and keep the led front and red to the rear. reflective clothing worn by the wrong way along a one-way Do not leave your cart or animal on your left. On one- out-side rank of long columns. road or on the right-hand side trolley unattended on a way roads, proceed only in Do not ride, lead or drive a It is preferable if all marchers of a two-way road. Give way pavement or roadway or the direction of the traffic and horse or other large animal on wear reflective and/or to pedestrians at pedestrian where it may cause keep to the left. If you are a footpath or pavement by the crossings. Keep looking obstruction or danger to any fluorescent clothing. riding a horse, you should side of the road. 21 For Pedestrians Persons with Disabilities Mobility impaired persons (manually or electrically propelled) and crutches are the most common walking aids for mobility impaired persons to travel around. Many facilities are provided on roads, such as pavements and road crossing places, for mobility impaired persons, in particular An international symbol of accessibility may appear on those using wheelchairs. Most pedestrian direction signs to indicate facilities or routes for of the rules and advice given mobility impaired persons. to pedestrians also apply to mobility impaired persons If using a , you • When travelling on using walking aids. should take note of the pavements, you should Barrier-free access facilities, following advice: be considerate towards other road users and use like lifts, ramps and dropped • Before going out, make the wheelchair attentively kerbs, are provided to help sure your wheelchair is in • When crossing the road to avoid causing any you use the footbridges and a good condition and you at-grade, always use nuisance, inconvenience or subways to cross roads, are familiar with its dropped kerb crossings danger to them. You should and access premises and operation. Wear the seat and follow the Road move at a reasonable community facilities belt securely, if fitted. If you Crossing Code. speed which at most comfortably and safely. Use travel at night, wear bright, should be comparable with ramps or lifts provided at light-coloured or reflective that of the moving crowd footbridges or subways. clothing. It will help other around you. Look out for Some direction signs may road users to notice you. help you locate the barrier-free the road environment and access and nearby public • Do not use wheelchair if the people moving around facilities. you are under the influence you, in particular the of alcohol or drugs as this sudden movement of will affect your judgement young children or the slow and control ability. movement of the elderly.

22 For Pedestrians

Visually impaired persons • Electronic audible traffic • Braille plates signals and tactile units The following facilities are To assist visually impaired provided to help visually At most ‘Green man’ persons, braille information impaired persons in travelling crossings, they are on directional arrows and around: provided with electronic floor numbers are provided audible traffic signals at the barrier-free access • Tactile guide path Directional tile with parallel specially designed for facilities such as the A path with continuous raised bars is used to guide use by visually impaired handrails or lifts. different tactile tiles used to users along an intended safe persons. The audible traffic link up public transport path. signals emit different sound interchanges with nearby pattern representing places of public interest. different pedestrian signal states, e.g. a continuous • Tactile warning strip at beeping sound to tell users dropped kerb crossing when the steady ʻGreen A strip with hazard warning manʼ light has started to tiles is used to warn users show, an intermittent Hazard warning tile with of potential hazards ahead. beeping for the flashing raised big dots (35mm in ʻGreen manʼ and a slow diameter) is used to give hammering tone for ʻRed warning to users of potential manʼ. A tactile unit hazards ahead, for example attached to the traffic light at road crossing place or poles may also be included beginning/end of staircase/ to supplement the audible ramp/escalator. traffic signals. Users can Vibrator and directional arrow touch a vibrator located at at the bottom the bottom of the unit to receive different vibrating patterns corresponding to different pedestrian signal states and the directional Positional tile with raised arrow to know the direction small dots (23mm in of crossing the road. diameter) is used to indicate possible change in walking directions, for example at junctions. 23 Chapter 3 For Passengers For Passengers Public Transport Public Transport or request a Green minibus to stop.

Buses On some roads with ʻNo- Public buses provide stoppingʼ zones, the driver scheduled services and run may be permitted to stop. on fixed routes. They may The driver may also stop at a only pick up or set down green minibus stop or stand. passengers at designated Green minibuses are yellow in bus stops or termini. colour with a green roof.

Trams (Public light Trams run on fixed tracks Red minibuses buses providing non- along the northern coast of scheduled services) the Hong Kong Island Red minibuses may operate between Kennedy Town and on most roads except those Shau Kei Wan. They may with ʻNo public light busesʼ only pick up or set down signs. You may hail or request passengers at designated a red minibus to stop tram stops. anywhere the driver is allowed North-west railway (light to do so. In addition to the rail) stopping restrictions generally Light rail vehicles (LRVs) run applying to all vehicles, there (Green a number of specified major along fixed tracks in Tuen are ʻNo stoppingʼ zones that New Territories taxis Route planning Mun and Yuen Long with apply only to public light taxis) infrastructures and railway Transport Departmentʼs mobile designated stops. Most of the buses. The driver may also New Territories (NT) taxis stations via designated routes. application provides one-stop tracks and their reserve areas stop at a red minibus stop or operate throughout most of Traffic signs ʻEnd of permitted service of point-to-point public are fenced off. Unauthorised stand. Red minibuses are the New Territories region area for NT taxisʼ are erected transport route enquiry for pre- entry into such fenced areas yellow in colour with a red except , at appropriate road junctions trip planning. You can access is strictly prohibited on safety roof. , Tseung Kwan O, and to advise drivers of NT taxis it by your smartphone or grounds. . They are also their operating boundaries. Urban taxis (Red taxis) permitted to provide service desktop computer to search (Blue taxis) Green minibuses (Public Urban taxis provide service to between the Air Passenger Lantau taxis your route. (See ʻFurther Lantau taxis serve only the light buses providing the whole of Hong Kong but Terminals of the Hong Kong Reference Materialsʼ) whole Lantau Island and Chek scheduled services) cannot operate on the closed International Airport and Lap Kok including the Hong Green minibuses run on fixed roads on Lantau Island certain districts in the New Kong International Airport. routes to provide scheduled including Road. Territories. The driver cannot services. Where the driver is take you to destinations allowed to do so you may hail in the urban area except 24 For Passengers Using Buses Using buses wait for the next one. Look out for cyclists riding between Do not get on or off a bus the bus and the pavement or unless it is standing at a bus side of the road. stop. When waiting by a bus stop, keep a good distance After boarding a bus, move from the edge of the footpath. along, and sit down if a seat is You should queue for the bus available. Do not stand on the – this makes getting on the upper deck, at the staircase bus safer and quicker. When or beyond the yellow line near forming a queue, do not block the bus entrance or exit. If you the pavement. If queue are a wheelchair user, you railings/markings are have to stabilise your provided, queue within the wheelchair with locking railings/markings. Do not device. The elderly, persons stand on the roadway or force with disabilities, pregnant other pedestrians to step onto women or other people in the roadway. Give passengers need may use the priority in wheelchairs and persons seats, if available. with disabilities priority in Hold on to a suitable handrail boarding the bus. Do not step if you have to stand. Sit down onto the roadway to stop the and fasten the seat belt, if bus when it is leaving. fitted. Offer your seat to those When you want to get off at the road in both directions. If you want to get on a bus at in need, such as the elderly, next stop, use the bell-push, If the bus remains at the bus a bus stop, give a clear signal persons with disabilities, or similar device, in good time stop or stand, cross the road for it to stop. When the bus pregnant women and people to signal the driver. Note the well away from it. Do not cross approaches, stand well back travelling with young children. bus stop announcement. Do in front or at the rear of the bus. not alight while the door is and wait until it has stopped You must not talk to or At a public transport opening or closing. completely before getting on. distract the driver. Do not or bus terminus, If there is no separate interfere with or try to operate When you have got off the bus watch out for buses and other entrance and exit, let the the emergency exit door and want to cross the road, vehicles that may be coming in passengers get off first. Do unless in emergency. wait until the bus has moved off or moving off. not get on a crowded bus – and you have a clear view of

25 For Passengers Using Light Rail Vehicles or Trams Using light rail vehicles (LRVs) Using trams Follow the rules and advice for using buses but you will need to take special care in reaching the tram or the tram stop. To reach a tram stop located on an island, follow the Road Crossing Code to cross to the island. After leaving a tram, wait on the island and follow the Road Crossing Code to return to the pavement. Use a footbridge or pedestrian crossing where it is joined to the tram island. If there is no island, wait on Light rail stops are located on At a platform, you should the pavement. Do not cross raised platforms adjoining queue up behind the yellow to the tram until it has tracks. For going to or leaving line while waiting for a LRV. stopped and other vehicles a platform or the pavement, Always let people alight first also stopped behind the you should use proper before you board the LRV. yellow ʻStopʼ line (see pages crossing facilities, including After boarding, you should 58 and 127). Likewise, do not footbridges, subways and move inside. Do not obstruct leave the tram or cross the ʻGreen manʼ crossings where the door. The LRV has road until you are sure it is they are provided. If there are announcement of the next safe to do so. no proper crossing facilities, stop and also warning to You must not try to get on or you should follow the Road passengers when the doors off a moving tram. Crossing Code with extra are opening or closing. care. You must not stand on the staircase of a tram, and should avoid standing on upper deck. You must not talk to or distract the tram driver or touch the controls. 26 For Passengers Using Public Light Buses, Taxis or Private Cars Using public light buses or For private car passengers door locks. Do not throw anything out of the window or taxis Wait until the car has stopped put out any part of your body. Find a safe place to wait before getting in or out. before hailing a taxi or public Where possible get in or out If the vehicle is installed with light bus. If a taxi stand or a on the pavement or side of airbags, ensure that there is public light bus stand or stop the road. You must not open a good distance between you for the route you want is the door in a manner that puts and the air bag outlet. Do not nearby, go there and wait. anyone in danger or impedes sit or lean unnecessarily close Do not wait where there is a pedestrians. Do not leave the to the airbag outlet. stopping restriction which door open. (For more information on seat may prevent the driver from If it is necessary to get out belts and air bags, see pages stopping to pick you up, for onto the roadway, do not 43 to 46.) example where there are open the car door until it is double yellow lines or single safe to do so. Ask the driver yellow lines (within the Where possible, get in or out call bell (if provided) or tell the to help if necessary. Open the restriction time). of a public light bus or taxi on driver well in advance so the door a little, look all around, Wait near the kerb but do not the pavement or side of the driver can stop safely. Do not particularly behind, and listen. stand too close to it or on the road. leave your seat until the public Watch out particularly for light bus has stopped. roadway. When a taxi or You must wear a seat belt, cyclists and motorcyclists. public light bus approaches, if fitted, when travelling on If you are a taxi front seat When there is no traffic, get give a clear signal to the a public light bus or taxi. passenger and it is necessary out, stand by the car and driver. to get out onto the roadway, close the door quickly. Look When travelling by taxi, give all around again and when Do not step on the roadway follow the advice for private early alert to the driver of any there is no traffic nearby, walk or try to get in until the vehicle car passengers getting out instructions so that the driver around the back of the car to has stopped and the driver onto the roadway on this can carry them out safely. the pavement or the side of has opened the door for you page. Follow the rules and advice the road. or knows you are getting in. for private car passengers (Chapter 8 ʻThe Language If the vehicle stops on the (see this page). After sitting in a seat, buckle other side of the road, be sure of the Roadʼ includes up. All passengers must that the driver has stopped for Do not speak to the driver illustrations of traffic signs, always wear seat belts, you and not for some other other than to give instructions. traffic light signals and road if fitted (see page 43 for more reasons, and follow the Road Do not try to pay directly to markings referred to in this information). Crossing Code to cross the the driver while the vehicle is chapter.) Do not distract the driver road. still in motion. while the vehicle is in motion, When you wish to get off or touch any of the controls or a public light bus, press the 27 For Passengers Persons with Disabilities On some taxis, talking meter After boarding a bus or Public transport services Certificate for picking up If you are will inform passengers the a LRV, you should park and On public transport such as or setting down of vehicle registration number lock your wheelchair at the • persons with mobility buses, public light buses, passengers with and the total fare. reserved parking space and problem, such as wheelchair taxis, railways and tramways, disabilities in restricted may choose to sit on the users or users of walking various barrier-free facilities zones Mobility impaired persons closest priority seat, if aids; or are provided to help persons A passenger with disability or and wheelchair users available. • visually impaired persons, with disabilities. impaired vision can board You may wait at the head When you hire a taxi including and alight from a taxi, private you can apply for the Visually impaired persons of the queue with a yellow wheelchair accessible taxi, car, private light bus or certificate from organisations international symbol of your crutches and wheelchair Tactile guide paths will guide private bus in no-stopping under the coordination of the accessibility marked on the are carried free of charge. visually impaired persons restricted zones (except Hong Kong Council of Social ground at public transport (VIPs) to move around public expressways and 24-hour Services. interchanges, light rail Hearing impaired persons no stopping restricted transport interchanges and You can fill in the journey platforms and some bus zones), provided that no light rail platforms, and The display panel of bus stop information and vehicle stops for easier boarding. hazard or major disruption is to/from nearby places of announcement system will registration number on the caused to other road users, public interest. show you the name of the certificate and present it to by presenting a ʻCertificate next stop. the driver of taxi, private car, Guide dog can accompany for Picking Up or Setting private light bus or private VIP on board. Once Down of Passengers with Special transport services bus. on board, VIP may sit on Disabilities in Restricted the closest priority seat, For persons with disabilities Zonesʼ to the driver. if available. Braille and tactile who are unable to use public plates are available on buses, transport, they may use public light buses and taxis Rehabus. Rehabus provides to inform them the vehicle territory-wide transport registration number and/or services which enable the customer service hotline. mobility impaired persons to travel to work or school, On buses and LRVs, there attend medical appointment, would be announcement or participate in social and of the next stop and also recreational activities. buzzers to warn passengers when the doors are opening/ closing.

28 Chapter 4 For Cyclists For Cyclists Cycling A cycle is regarded as a Learning to ride Reckless and careless vehicle. A cyclist has the There is much you need to cycling same obligation to follow the learn before riding on the rules and regulations You must not ride or use road. Balancing and steering, applicable to drivers when your cycle in a manner that starting and stopping are all cycling on the road. Most of endangers other road users extremely important but there the rules and advice given to or yourself, or that would is much more to safe cycling. drivers in Chapter 5 apply to increase the risk of a traffic As a new rider, you need to cyclists. The advice contained accident or increase the risk develop the ability to in this chapter is aimed of injury or death. You must understand and anticipate primarily at those using ride or use your cycle with the movements of other . However some of due care and attention riders and drivers as well as the rules and advice also and with reasonable pedestrians. You need to be apply to those using tricycles consideration for other road able to recognise the signs or multi-cycles. users. and signals they use to You must obey traffic signs, communicate with each other A person who rides or uses traffic signals, road markings permission before riding on the Do not wear anything that and be sure that your own a , or multi- and traffic rules that apply road and, if under the age of may affect your proper actions are always in the best cycle on a road recklessly generally to vehicles. 11, must cycle only with an control of your cycle or get interests of both yourself and or carelessly commits an of other road users. offence. Wear glasses if you need adult. caught in the wheels or chain. The legs of baggy trousers or them to see properly. Some road users may not Do not ride on the road until If you understand and follow shoelaces can get caught you can do so safely and the rules and advice in this Do not ride if you suffer from be looking out for cyclists. easily in the chain. Use a competently and until you chapter, as well as those in any disability or illness that In addition, cycles can be band to tie up trouser legs know and can follow the Road Chapter 5 that apply to makes it difficult harder to be seen from end- if needed. Usersʼ Code. cyclists, you will ride safely for you to ride safely. on. Wearing bright, light- coloured, fluorescent or and with consideration for You must not ride when under others. reflective clothing/belt will Multi-cycles Riding of multi-cycles is the influence of alcohol or help other road users to see restricted to certain drugs. you. Reflective clothing/belt designated areas and cycle If you are taking medication, is the most effective safety tracks indicated by the left consult your doctor to make gear to keep you visible by sign. A child under the age sure that it will not affect your others, particularly in the dark of 11 who rides or steers ability to ride. or in poor light. a multi-cycle in such Ride where drivers and designated places must be Children should seek their accompanied by an adult. parentʼs or guardianʼs pedestrians will be looking and expect to see you. 29 For Cyclists You and Your Cycle Cycles are of different types Handlebars should be at maximum play and sizes and usually the about the same height or 2cm Bell height of the handlebars and slightly higher than the saddle Red light at the rear the saddle can be adjusted. (see diagram below) so that To ride safely and your weight can be shared White light Red reflector competently, you must ride between the handlebars and in front a cycle of the right type the saddle. and size and make proper adjustments to suit you. Check that the moving Do not ride a cycle that is parts are oiled sufficiently too small or too large for you. and the chain is tight enough Check it with your local cycle (2cm maximum play) with no dealers or experienced sign of damage or rust. persons for further advice. If you prepare to ride at night Check that you can just touch Efficient braking system or in poor visibility, your cycle the ground with the tips of must be fitted with a white Make sure the brakes are both feet while sitting on the Safety checks lamp on the front and a red suitably adjusted and kept in saddle (see diagram below) Make sure your cycle is lamp on the rear. Make sure proper working order, and can and adjust it if necessary. If suitable for you and safe to your lamps are in good stop the wheels effectively; not, the cycle is too big or the ride. condition; and if you use and also the tyres are in good saddle too high. If you can put Check that you can apply battery powered lamps, condition with clearly seen both feet flat on the ground both brakes easily and fully Wear a bright colour and check that the batteries have tread pattern and are properly while sitting on the saddle, with your fingers while still correctly fitted safety helmet sufficient energy for your pumped up. then the cycle is too small or holding the handlebar grips which complies with journey. It is a good idea to the saddle is too low, giving and maintaining full steering international standards (see carry spare batteries and you a cramped riding position. control. ʻFurther Reference Materialsʼ). lamps. Put on suitable clothing with Check that you can operate reflective belt (see page 29) Your cycle must have a rear the bell while holding and and wear personal protective red reflector fitted. controlling the handlebars. equipment (for example, Reflectors can increase your pads, gloves). Your cycle visibility to other road users. must be fitted with a warning Fit white reflectors on the front bell. or side of your cycle, and amber reflectors on the pedals.

30 For Cyclists Safe Cycling Basic cycling skills A system for safe cycling As a new rider, learn and Before moving off, stopping, or turning, always carry out the practise the following basic following routine: skills at a suitable and safe • Think: Think carefully what place away from any traffic you want to do and allow and where you can do so sufficient time to do it. safely without causing any inconvenience or risk to others. Do not ride on the road until you can ride your cycle with good balancing and steering, starting and stopping – well • Look: Check if it is safe to enough for you to concentrate manoeuvre; look ahead, on and cope with the dangers do not freewheel but keep Braking behind and all around. of the road and other traffic. pedalling. Try and practise Learn which hand works the steering around markers or Moving off – practise this skill front brake and which hand other obstacles. following a narrow path as works the rear brake. Apply you become more competent. Emergency braking – apply the rear brake for smooth Use a low gear, if fitted. both front and rear brakes gradual slowing down. The simultaneously. Try and front brake is more powerful Slowing down and stopping – practise emergency braking and efficient. However, if you • Signal: Signal what you practise progressive and by stopping as quickly as you apply it too hard, the cycle will intend to do, provided it is controlled braking, bringing can (also see ʻBrakingʼ on stop more abruptly and the safe. Arm signals must be your cycle to a stop smoothly right). rear wheel may lift off the correct, clear and given in and in the exact place ground causing you to lose good time. required. Try it at speed. When you have mastered control or even fly over the On a wet surface, it will be these skills, try them again handlebars, particularly when more difficult. and also practise looking going downhill at speed. behind and giving correct Pedalling, balancing and In normal riding conditions, signals. Develop a constant steering – use the balls of apply the rear brake first, then awareness of all other vehicles It is only when the above steps have been taken that it is safe your feet to pedal. A smooth the front brake. Control your and pedestrians around you, to move off, stop, or change speed or direction. pedalling style that exerts speed by braking including their positions and force throughout the entire appropriately when travelling speeds. You can find advice circle will help balancing the downhill or before rounding on what to do and when to cycle. Even at low speeds, a bend. Only brake when the do it in this chapter. front wheel is straight. 31 For Cyclists Giving Signals Give your signals clearly and Other vehicles can give Left-turn signal Right-turn signal Signals by other road in good time. Give only the signals throughout the users correct signals – the three manoeuvre because they illustrated on the right. are using direction indicator Before riding on the road, signals or stop light signals. not only should you know Giving an arm signal means These signals are more easily how to give signals, but also riding with only one hand on seen by other road users. be able to recognise signals the handlebars. As riding given by others and know one-handed is dangerous, As a cyclist, you have to rely what they mean (see pages arm signal should not be on arm signals only before 104 and 105 for more given for longer than the manoeuvre. Your signals information on signals given necessary and sometimes This signal indicates that the This signal indicates that the are not easily seen by other by drivers and cyclists). it is safer not to give a signal cyclist is going to move out cyclist is going to move out road users, particularly at at all. to the left or turn left. The to the right or turn right. night or in poor visibility. whole of the arm and hand Before changing direction or Always complete your signal is extended level with the slowing down, make sure and return your hand to the shoulder, palm facing other road users have seen handlebars before carrying Slowing down signal forwards. If you give the you and avoid abrupt changes out the manoeuvre, such as signal in this way, it can that may bring you into changing direction or slowing be more easily seen and conflict with them. Do not rely down so as to maintain understood by other road completely on your signals. maximum control. users. Keep looking around to others.

This signal indicates that the cyclist is going to slow down or stop. The arm is extended level with the shoulder, palm facing downwards. Move the arm up and down at least three times, but not too fast.

32 For Cyclists Riding on the Road Starting Emergency stop Always keep both hands on the handlebars unless you are Before you move off from the Do not signal. Keep both signalling. side of the road, think which hands on the handlebars to way you intend to go and look maintain control and use You must keep at least one ahead, behind and all around, both brakes. Move your hand on the handlebars at all particularly over your right bodyweight lower and back times. shoulder, for moving traffic. if you can. Always keep both feet on the If there is traffic approaching, pedals. wait until it has passed. When Riding along the traffic has passed, signal In general, keep to the left Always cycle within your clearly with your right arm and side of the road in single file ability. In particular, you then move off. and move at a steady speed. Regulatory sign – cycling should be comfortable with Look out for , drains, restriction the road and traffic conditions. road expansion joints, covers Stopping Safe riding requires skills not Cycling is prohibited beyond and , etc. Except in an emergency, only in controlling the cycle, the above sign. Cyclists must stopping must be done such as balancing, steering, When you are about to make dismount and push their carefully and gradually. starting and stopping, but a turn or come to a narrow bicycles or tricycles to Decide where you wish to also in the following key areas: road, you may ride in the proceed beyond the sign stop and look particularly to middle of the lane if it is safe until the end of the restriction. • of cycles and the rear over your right Awareness to do so and without causing vehicles ahead, behind shoulder for following traffic. serious disruption to traffic. and to the sides, as well as Signal that you are going to Look out for following traffic pedestrians, traffic signals, slow down and stop. When when you move out. If you road surface and the entire braking, keep both hands on ride on a long narrow road, You must not ride or push vicinity; the handlebars. try to make a stop at a lay-by your bicycle or tricycle past • of what is or some wider area to allow the above regulatory traffic On wet roads, it will take you Anticipation likely to happen by following vehicles to pass signs banning bicycle or more time and much longer observing movement, where possible. tricycle. These signs are often distance to stop, so allow at watching out for hidden found near elevated roads, least twice the normal You must not enter a tunnel dangers and listening for flyovers and underpasses. distance. area, a control area or an Regulatory sign – End of engine sounds, etc; and expressway. The start and cycling restriction • Positioning yourself so end of such area are marked that other drivers can see by traffic signs (see pages 71 you and know what you and 73). intend to do.

33 For Cyclists

You must not ride on You must never be towed or Use of the bell Steep cycleway pavement. If there is a hold on to a vehicle or tow Use your bell to warn other cycleway or cycle lane along another cycle or other vehicle. road users, especially the road, you must use it. You must not carry any pedestrians, of your presence, Do not stay on the cycleway passenger. You must not but only when it is necessary. The sign above advises if you need to stop or take a carry any animal or anything cyclists to dismount and walk rest. Other motorists may not hear which might obstruct your down the steep road section your warning bell, so you You must ride in single file view, affect your balance or ahead. should take safety except when overtaking or complete control of your precautions as necessary. riding on cycleway. cycle, or get caught in the wheels or chain. You must not use your bell You must not ride a cycle in to demand other road users, Steep (downward) the opposite direction to traffic Do not wear earphones of especially pedestrians, to on road. any audio devices or use clear the way – unless in mobile phone. Watch out for pedestrians, emergency such as you are particularly young children, unable to stop. Do not lead any animal. who may step or run onto the road suddenly. If riding at night or in poor visibility, you must switch on Watch out for other vehicles, your cycle lamps to show a particularly when approaching white light to the front and a a junction. Other drivers may red light to the rear. Ensure the turn left across your path. lamps are on during your trip. Steep (upward) Keep a safe distance from Even in daylight, switching on any vehicle you are following. your cycle lamps can help On steep sections of roads, Never get close to it. other road users see you. take care of your speed – not Otherwise, if it stops Adjust suitably your cycle to reach a speed from which suddenly, you may not have lamp to dip downwards so as you cannot stop safely. If you time to do so. not to dazzle other road users. feel that you may not be able to control the cycle, you should dismount and push your cycle through that road section. The above signs indicate steep downward/ upward cycleway sections ahead.

34 For Cyclists

Overtaking When riding along a road, It is very dangerous to Bus lanes Look out for pedestrians you may need to overtake overtake a vehicle on its left. who may step unexpectedly vehicles which are stopped You however may overtake/ onto the road and for drivers or are moving more slowly pass on the left under the who may drive into a bus lane than you, or to pass road following situations only: to gain access to premises or works or stalls on the side of when taking evasive action. • When it is obvious from the road. Be prepared to ride in normal the vehicleʼs position, traffic conditions at the end Before overtaking a parked movement, speed and of the bus lane (for more or slow-moving vehicle, think signals that it is going to information on bus lanes, see look of which line you wish to take. turn right. page 65). Look behind over your right • On one-way road (but not shoulder for approaching ) with Pedestrian crossings signal left vehicles and let them pass stopped or slow-moving before moving out. Time your You must give way to vehicle on the right-hand manoeuvre so that you are pedestrians on a ʻZebraʼ side of the road. not overtaking, as they pass crossing. If there are you. Ensure also that while Do not pass between the kerb pedestrians on the crossing, overtaking, you will be in no and a bus when the bus is stop and wait behind the danger from vehicles coming at a stop. Wait until the bus ʻGive wayʼ line. You must not in the opposite direction. moves off, unless it is safe to weave through pedestrians on Signal with your right arm pass it on the other side and a crossing or try to force your before moving out. you can return to your normal way. path before the bus moves When you are about to At ʻGreen manʼ crossings, off. overtake parked vehicles, you must stop and wait you should look out for any You should never overtake on behind the ʻStopʼ line if the red light is showing. You may look again pedestrians who may appear the left of or weave in and out suddenly between the of stationary or very slow only go forward if the green vehicles; also watch out for moving traffic. It is often better light is showing and the way You may use bus lanes unless signal right any driver or passenger of the to wait for the traffic to move. is clear. Give way to any there are signs banning stopped vehicle who are likely pedestrians still on the cyclists. However, buses at to open a door into your path. crossing. bus lane may be travelling look If possible, leave at least a faster than the traffic in other doorʼs width clearance lanes. Allow bus to pass when between your cycle and situation permits. the vehicle.

35 For Cyclists Turning and Junctions At junctions, traffic may be Right-turn Wait until there is a safe gap the traffic condition before moving in different directions. in the oncoming traffic and you turn. This makes such places take a final look before Look to the right, left and right particularly dangerous. completing the turn. Beware again before you turn into a Decide well in advance which of traffic coming out from the main road. Look out for other way to go, then think of which . Do not cut the cycles as well as cars and line you wish to take. Look corner during the turn. Begin larger vehicles coming. particularly to the rear for to turn when you are opposite traffic. Before you turn, signal the centre of the road into If there is any traffic coming, clearly and in good time the which you intend to turn. let it pass. Do not assume that direction you wish to go. a vehicle approaching from the look again On busy roads or at night or right and signalling left will turn Always be ready to give way wait until clear in poor visibility, you may stop left. Wait to make sure. When to pedestrians who may step (signal right) on the left side of the road all traffic lanes are clear, make onto the road near a junction. look again and wait for a safe gap in the your turn as quickly as look again traffic in both directions before You cannot be seen as easily possible. you make your turn. Signal as larger vehicles and other wait until clear signal left before you turn. Do not wait If you feel safer using a drivers may not be looking out (signal right) in the middle of the road, pedestrian crossing place to for cyclists – whenever it is especially at night. cross a road, do so but push safe to do so, give clear arm your cycle and follow the rules signals to let drivers behind look In any case, or if you feel and advice for pedestrians. know your intended move. unsafe, you may dismount on the roadside and push your Traffic light junctions Left-turn cycle across the road at a pedestrian crossing following You must follow all traffic When approaching a junction, look the Road Crossing Code. signals, traffic signs and road look behind and ahead. markings at traffic light Watch out for vehicles turning junctions. You must wait behind in front of you. Do not ride Turning into or crossing a the ʻStopʼ line if the traffic light near or beside a vehicle Signal left before you turn. Turning right is a potentially main road is red, or ʻred and amberʼ. You signalling or slowing down to Look out for pedestrians dangerous manoeuvre as you If there is a ʻStopʼ sign, you may continue only when the turn left. They may not see crossing the road. After must cross the carriageway must stop even if there is no green traffic light is showing you. Let them pass first. turning, keep to the left of for oncoming traffic. traffic coming. Stop behind and it is safe to do so the road. the line, not over it. As you approach the junction, To turn right, signal right and (see pages 106 and 107 for keep to the left or you may then approach near the centre Even where there is a ʻGive more information about traffic move to the middle of the of the road, just to the left of wayʼ sign, it is often better lights). lane, if it is safe to do so. the centre line. If there is a to stop and check carefully lane for right-turn, use it. 36 For Cyclists Using Roundabouts There are two types of Turning right Going straight ahead roundabouts, conventional and roundabouts (see page 81). When using any roundabout, follow the advice signal left on this page. signal left At a roundabout, those approaching must give way to traffic already on the roundabout. Any exceptions to this rule are always clearly indicated by traffic signs and check for check for road markings. traffic which traffic which Never try to use a roundabout may cross may cross unless you know: your path your path • which way you intend to go For turning right or going straight ahead, you should approach Turning left long before you reach the on the left, during and after the manoeuver. Once riding on the junction. Any direction sign roundabout, watch out for vehicles crossing your path to leave placed before the or enter the roundabout. Keep left and signal left as you roundabout will be of help; approach your exit. • the arm signal that you Keep to the outside of the roundabout paying particular should give before attention to traffic on the right which may cut across your path manoeuvre; and to leave the roundabout; and traffic which is entering the • the exact route and road roundabout ahead of you. Stop, if in doubt or necessary, position you should take before crossing an entrance or exit. throughout the manoeuvre. Signal left when you are about to reach your exit. signal left Other traffic also approaches in the right-hand lane but it is often safer for a cyclist to keep left. signal left If in doubt or you feel unsafe to negotiate the roundabout, get off and push your cycle along the pedestrian route. You should approach on the left signalling left as you get near the junction. You must give way to traffic on the roundabout. Once on the roundabout, keep left and signal left again as you approach your exit. 37 For Cyclists Cycleways If there is a cycle lane, or an Look out for pedestrians on Riding on steep down ramps adjacent cycleway beside the or crossing the cycleway, or roadway, you must ride on it persons working or carrying It is potentially dangerous to travel down steep gradients and not on any other part of out other activities near the (often found at cycle subways and ) at excessively the roadway. cycleway. They may not see high speed. Riding too fast down a steep ramp can cause a or hear you coming. Always loss of control or even a crash, especially under If there is a footpath and a give way to pedestrians. inappropriate braking. Take great care and dismount if cycleway side by side, you necessary. Be especially alert at: must ride on the cycleway Ride only in the direction only. Look out for any indicated by traffic signs and • a long steep downhill ramp combined with a sharp bend pedestrians, particularly road markings. If the backs of at the bottom young children, who may step the traffic signs are facing you, • an within a subway or run onto the cycleway you are probably riding the without looking. wrong way. On a two-way • a long steep scissor-type down-ramp cycleway, keep to the left. When riding on cycleways, you must follow the rules and Be aware of vehicles at road advice that apply to you on crossings with cycleway, and normal roads. Cycleways are prepared to stop or give way also roads but motor vehicles to other cyclists at junctions are generally not permitted to with other cycleways. enter and use cycleways. Keep to the left of the cycleway and allow other Regulatory signs marking the cyclists to pass you on start of a cycleway, or an the right. Overtake only on adjoining footpath and the right. cycleway The following signs advise cyclists to dismount as there are potential conflicts or hazards ahead.

Direction sign showing the route for cyclists

38 For Cyclists

End of cycleway Crossing roads Crossing light rail tracks A cycle route may cross a A cycle route may cross a light rail track. Where it does so, road with traffic, where drivers you must get off your cycle and push it across the tracks may not be alert and prepared using the ʻGreen manʼ crossing at a designated crossing for cyclists. point. You must obey the traffic lights for pedestrians. You should get off your cycle Do not cross until the steady ʻGreen manʼ shows. and push your cycle across the road, and follow the advice on Road Crossing Code given in Chapter 2 for pedestrians; but allow yourself more time and room to push and handle your cycle safely.

This regulatory traffic sign or the concerned road Regulatory sign indicating that marking indicates which you must get off your cycle side must be used by and push it across the road cyclists and which side by using a pedestrian must be used by An ʻEndʼ traffic sign or road marking may indicate the end crossing. of a cycleway. You have to join or return to the normal road pedestrians. No other road and ride with other traffic. Be prepared to join traffic on the users are permitted. normal road. Look over your shoulder and wait for a safe gap in the traffic.

39 For Cyclists

Pushing your cycle Cycle parking You may find it necessary or desirable to get off and push your cycle along, particularly if the traffic conditions are such that you do not feel safe to ride with the traffic or you may find it difficult to do so. If you push your cycle along, do keep proper control of your cycle by pushing your cycle with both hands on the handlebars and use the brakes as necessary. If you are pushing your cycle along the road, keep as close to the side of the road The rules and advice for the obstruction to pedestrians, as possible and keep your parking of vehicles generally would not cause any cycle between you and the apply to cycles. On a road danger, for example by traffic. Follow the rules and with street lighting, you may forcing pedestrians to step advice as if you are riding on only park your cycle in a onto the road, and does not the road. parking place designated for make it more difficult for pedal cycles. However, no others to see clearly. If you are pushing your cycle cycle should be continually on the pedestrian crossing, parked at the same parking pavement, verge or place for more than footpath, follow the rules 24 hours. and advice for pedestrians given in Chapter 2, If you want to have a particularly the advice given temporary stop, such as to on page 21 for pedestrians take a rest, you may leave with handcarts or trolleys. your cycle on a pavement, footpath or verge for a short period, provided that this would not cause any 40 Chapter 5 For All Drivers For All Drivers Driving You must be aged at least alcohol can affect your driving per 100ml of blood, or 67mg of doctors, pharmacists or It is also an offence if you, 18 and hold a valid driving ability. Do not drive after alcohol per 100ml of urine. Any dentists if in doubt and ask for without reasonable excuse, licence which you must have drinking. As an alternative, driver of motor vehicle found alternative medications when refuse or fail to undergo with you whenever you are you can use taxi or other exceeding the prescribed limit necessary. preliminary drug tests or to driving. public transport services, or will face prosecution under provide blood and/or urine arrange a non-drinker to do the law. If the proportion of specimens for drug analysis. You must wear glasses if you Preliminary drug tests the driving. alcohol far exceeds the need them to meet the driving You may be requested by prescribed limit, the penalty Smoking test standard – to read at a The police have the power to police officer to undergo will be more severe. distance of 23 metres in good demand a screening breath preliminary drug tests if you Smoking will distract your daylight a vehicle number test from any driver who is are involved in a traffic driving. Avoid smoking while plate. You must not drive with randomly stopped during Drug driving is a criminal accident, or have committed driving. uncorrected defective vision. roadblock operations or other offence a moving traffic offence, or are If driving in bright sunlight is traffic enforcement checks, It is an offence if you drive a suspected of driving under the uncomfortable, use good or from any driver who is motor vehicle with any influence of drugs. quality sunglasses – but not involved in a traffic accident, concentration of specified Your passengers at night or in conditions of or has committed a moving illicit drugs – heroin, cocaine, poor visibility. traffic offence, or is suspected ketamine (‘k’), Front seat passengers 3 or above and under 1.3 of drink-driving. methamphetamine (‘ice’), should maintain a gap of not metres tall can be counted You should not drive if you cannabis (‘grass’) and MDMA less than one quarter of a as two passengers) suffer from any disability or If the screening breath test (‘ecstasy’) present in blood or metre between their bodies illness that may make it result indicates a level above You should arrange urine. and the dashboard. In case passengers to get in or out difficult for you to drive safely. the prescribed limit. The driver of accident or emergency You must also not drive under of your vehicle from the Your health affects your must provide specimens of braking, if their bodies are the influence of any drugs pavement or the side of the driving – even a cold can put breath, blood or urine as too close to the dashboard, (other than the above- road. Do not allow them to you below par. required by police officer they might be injured by for alcohol analysis. mentioned specified illicit open the door in a manner You should not drive, if you hitting the dashboard first drugs) to such an extent as to that will put anyone in are tired, unwell or emotionally It is also an offence if you, before the seat belts could be incapable of having proper danger. upset. without reasonable excuse, hold them back. control of the motor vehicle. When you get out of your refuse or fail to provide Passengers must sit on Drugs can affect body and vehicle to help passengers Drink driving is a criminal specimens of breath, blood properly provided and mind coordination, boarding/alighting or load/ offence or urine for test/analysis. secured seats. You must not significantly impairing oneʼs unload goods, you must It is an offence if you drive carry more passengers than ability to drive. If taking drugs switch off the engine, engage under the influence of alcohol Prescribed limit the seating capacity before driving cannot be the vehicle in first gear to such an extent as to be The prescribed limit is set at indicated on your vehicle avoided, make sure the drugs (manual) or park mode incapable of having proper 22 micrograms of alcohol per licence. (A child under the will not affect your driving (automatic), and apply the control of your motor vehicle. 100 millilitres (ml) of breath, or age of 3 years need not be ability. Consult healthcare parking brake first. Even a small amount, the 50 milligrams (mg) of alcohol counted. Three children aged professionals including 41 For All Drivers Safety Checks

Your vehicle must be covered by an effective insurance policy and have a valid vehicle licence displayed on the left- hand side of the windscreen.

You must keep your vehicle in Check the performance of lights and instruments work You must ensure that any You must not start or run your good working order. Follow steering wheel and brakes, properly. loads carried or towed are engine with the fuel tank cover the advice in your vehicle including the parking brake. secure and they do not removed. Replace tyres before they ownerʼs handbook on regular obstruct your view. Make sure windscreen, become badly worn and servicing and vehicle checks. windows, number plates never use a combination of Driver assistance system systems, you still have to Make sure your vehicle doors and reflectors are clean. cross-ply and radial-ply tyres. keep watching the road and If your vehicle is equipped and door latches are properly Ensure that your tyres are traffic conditions and keep You must make sure all your with driver assistance maintained in good working inflated to the correct pressure. your hands on the steering lamps work and are clean, systems, you must fully condition. The required minimum depth wheel, so that you can and your headlamps are understand their functions, of tread is 1mm throughout at resume manual control of the Make sure the window glass properly adjusted. Badly operation and limitations least three quarters of the vehicle immediately in will not obscure the view of adjusted headlamps will before you use them. When breadth of the tread. emergency situation or when the interior. Also, your view dazzle other drivers. using driver assistance should not be obscured by Make sure your seat belts necessary. Check whether windscreen objects inside the vehicle. are properly maintained and wipers and washers, warning 42 adjusted. For All Drivers Seat Belts Legal requirements for wearing seat belts Drivers Front Seat Rear Seat Passengers Passengers Private Cars Seat belt must be Taxis worn if fitted Public Light Buses Seat belt must be Seat belt must be worn if fitted worn if fitted Private Light Buses and Goods Not applicable Vehicles Buses Seat belt must be worn Not applicable

Private cars, taxis, Seat belts that are fitted to Exemption on medical grounds your vehicle must be of an light buses, goods The Commissioner for Transport may consider granting you an exemption from wearing a approved type. The seat belt vehicles and buses seat belt if you can present a valid medical certificate from a doctor. However, very few must be worn properly – You must wear an approved people could be exempted on medical grounds. There is no list of health reasons, including it must securely fasten the seat belt, if fitted, when driving pregnancy, which will automatically exempt you. wearer to the seat. Two or except when you are carrying more persons must not share out a manoeuvre which Pregnant drivers or effects of traffic accidents a seat belt at the same time. involves reversing, for passengers are also subject occurring at quite low speeds. example a three-point turn, or A child passenger under the to the above requirement of A head-on collision involving moving forward and reversing age of 3 must be securely wearing seat belt. In case of a two vehicles each moving at into a parking place. fastened to the seat by means crash, pregnant women who only 25 km/h produces an of an approved child restraint wear seat belts sustain fewer impact speed of 50 km/h - For private cars, you as a when travelling in the front injuries than those who do the same as falling head first driver must make sure that all seat of private car, goods not, hence the risk to the from the third floor window of your passengers wear seat vehicle or private light bus. It baby is reduced. a building. belts, if fitted. As private light would be much safer to put bus and goods vehicle Wearing a seat belt can your children in the rear seats drivers, you are responsible reduce your chance of death of a vehicle than in the front for ensuring that your front or serious injury by about half. seats. (For more information seat passengers aged below Seat belts are also very on child safety in cars, see 15 wear seat belts, if fitted. effective in reducing the page 45)

43 For All Drivers

Wearing your seat belts Looking after your seat Making a seat belt more How to wear seat belts during pregnancy correctly belts comfortable Most seat belts fit Seat belts should be looked Some people may find automatically. But there are after and checked regularly. seat belts uncomfortable. still some points to watch. Worn, damaged or defective For example, for smaller And these are more important seat belt cannot protect you persons, the upper part of with static type belts. The lap or your passenger, and is also the belt may be across their belt must restrain your hip illegal. Seat belts will wear, neck instead of across the bones by lying across the top even if not used very much. shoulder. Usually such of your thighs not stomach. Check your belts for signs of problem may be overcome The diagonal strap should lie damage and make sure that by using a booster seat. mid-way across your they run freely through the Even if a seat belt is shoulder, staying in contact upper anchorage guides. uncomfortable, it must be with your chest up to about If you have inertia reel belts, worn. It is safer to wear a your collar bone. See that the check that the unused seat belt that does not fit buckle is well down to your webbing goes back into the comfortably than to travel side and not lying on your reel easily. without using it. It will still body. You may have to Make sure that no part of a protect you in an accident. change the length of the Lap belts, as well as the The shoulder strap should belt becomes trapped in a straps. Make sure the straps lap portion of a lap-shoulder be placed between the door or under a seat. This can are not twisted or trapped belt combination, should be breasts, above the bump. cause serious damage to the and then fasten the buckle. placed low, across the hips, Adjust the shoulder belt for belt. If the buckles are on If necessary, tighten the belt – under the bump and over a snug fit. If it cuts across flexible stalks, do not bend as tight as possible but the upper thighs. They must your neck, reposition your them back behind the seats allowing for comfort. lie snugly over the pelvis, car seat for a better fit. or out of the way when they one of the stronger bones of You must not put on clips are not in use. Give you and your baby the the body. onto the seat belt as this best protection available by If a seat belt is worn, damaged would seriously reduce the Never place the belt over the buckling up. or defective, it should be effectiveness of the seat belt abdomen. replaced immediately. and also be illegal. Static belts should always be stowed on the clip provided. Do not allow them to dangle on the floor.

44 For All Drivers Child Safety in Cars Children under the age of 3 A child must not be held in Child restraint device should be placed on the floor, must be restrained by an arms or allowed to sit on wedged between the front approved child restraint the lap of a front seat and rear seats. A folded device when travelling in the passenger. In an accident, blanket will help to level the front seats of a private car, the child would be crushed floor or wedge the cot in private light bus or goods between the passenger and place. Fasten a cover over the vehicle. The requirement also the vehicle dashboard or carrycot to help stop the baby applies to those children thrown out of the vehicle. from being thrown out. travelling in the rear seats of If children are in someone private car when such device elseʼs car or if you are is available for use. carrying a lot of children, Other young child passengers child restraints may not be (aged 3 and above) travelling available. In that case, in private car should also use children must wear seat belts Up to 12 months (or babies weighing under 9kg who 3 to 12 years (or children child restraint device to instead of not being restrained weighing 15 – 36kg) enhance the protection, at all. cannot sit up by if available. If child restraint themselves) Use either a child harness Young children should be device is not available, they They should be carried in made of a lap strap and two placed in the rear seats and must be restrained by seat the rear of the car lying down shoulder straps; or a booster approved restraining devices belts when travelling in in a carrycot or infant carrier. seat together with the ordinary appropriate to their age and private cars. If the carrycot is made for use seat belt, which also has an size should be used. in a car, fix it on the rear seat 9 months to 4 years (or extra strap running behind the Child restraint device must using the restraining straps children weighing 9 – 18kg child that acts as a guide to be correctly and securely provided and/or the who can sit up by change the lie of the diagonal fitted to the vehicle in appropriate anchor points themselves) belt. accordance with the in accordance with the An appropriate child safety manufacturerʼs instructions. manufacturer’s instructions, seat is the best. The child is Over 12 years (or teenager Always ensure that your and secure the child in the held in the seat by a harness. weighing above 36kg) children are fastened properly carrycot. If the carrycot is not Follow the manufacturerʼs The ordinary seat belt could in the child restraint device. made for use in car, place it instructions on fixing the child be used. across the car with the baby's seat to the car structure. head in the middle of the car. The carrycot should be held on the rear seat by special carrycot restraining straps. If this is not possible, the cot

45 For All Drivers Airbags How to get maximum protection • Remember to wear your seat belt properly. • Airbags need space for inflating. So, ensure there is a good distance between yourself/your passengers and the airbag outlet. Do not sit or lean unnecessarily close to the airbag outlet. • Do not place any objects over the airbag outlet or in between the outlet and you to avoid being hurt by these objects when the airbag inflates. • Do not place young children in any front passenger seats installed with airbags when using How airbags protect you • Airbags can enhance • Seat belt can hold your rearward facing child further passenger safety in case entire body in your seat, restraint devices. Young of accident. Airbags can and can reduce your children should be placed • Airbags are designed to cushion your head and chance of injury by the in the rear seats using supplement seat belt upper body from striking inflating airbag. approved restraining system, but cannot the dashboard. However, devices appropriate to their replace it. • Seat belt offers the best airbags inflate very fast and age and size. and most effective • Seat belt is the most with great force. If you are protection in all types of important restraining too close to an inflating collisions or roll-over system. Always wear your airbag, you could be accidents. Airbags only seat belt. seriously hurt. function in particular collisions.

46 For All Drivers Driver Education Learning to drive To pass the written test, you have to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the Road Usersʼ Code. To pass the practical driving test, you have to demonstrate your driving ability to drive safely and competently following the rules and advice in this Code. Learner drivers preparing for the practical driving tests are also advised Start and continuation of to make reference to the an expressway ‘Guide to Driving Test’ ʻL-plateʼ– learner driver under published by the Transport instruction Department. Such guide will If you start to learn driving a be provided to persons who As a learner driver, you may private car or a light goods apply for the driving test. drive only at certain times vehicle, you must obtain a of the day and you are As a learner driver, you must learnerʼs driving licence for prohibited from using certain not drive on an expressway. the respective class of vehicle. roads. You must not normally Traffic signs on the right mark You must not drive without a carry any passengers. Your the start and end of an licensed driving instructor vehicle must be fitted with expressway. until you have obtained a ʻL-platesʼ. Ask your driving probationary driving licence instructor about these and after passing the written and other rules and advice for practical driving tests. End of an expressway learner drivers. Information on different types Learner drivers must not drive of driving licences and driving past this sign or drive on the tests may be obtained from road to which the ban applies. any Licensing Office of the Transport Department. You may also see ‘Further Reference Materialsʼ.

47 For All Drivers

If you are convicted of road • have not incurred any DOPs; Probationary driving Driving improvement Driving-offence points traffic offence that carries licence scheme (motor course • have accumulated 15 or system driving-offence points cycles, motor tricycles, The driving improvement more DOPs incurred within (DOPs) or relates to any of the The DOPs system is a private cars and light course is specially designed the past 2 years; or above restrictions during the measure designed to goods vehicles) to instill in drivers a stronger probationary driving period, • have within the past 2 years promote safety on the road. You are only eligible to apply sense of road safety and your probationary driving been deducted DOPs from The main purposes are to for a probationary driving good driving behaviour. period may be extended or the total number of DOPs deter habitual traffic offenders licence to drive a motor cycle, Drivers who wish to improve your probationary driving incurred. and to improve standards of motor tricycle, private car or their driving behaviour may licence may be cancelled driving in order to reduce the light goods vehicle upon attend the course in one of (see ʻFurther Reference accident toll. Certain traffic passing the respective driving the designated driving Materialsʼ about driving offences will carry driving- tests. You have to undergo a improvement schools. licences). offence points, in addition to probationary driving period If you have been convicted other penalties. Committing of at least 12 months To obtain a full driving licence, of serious traffic offences, any of these scheduled satisfactorily before applying you must submit an such as dangerous driving offences will result in the for a full driving licence. application within 3 years and drink driving, you are recording of the During the period, you are from the date of satisfactory compulsorily required to corresponding points. If 15 required to display a ʻPʼ plate completion of the attend and complete the or more DOPs have been at the front and rear of the probationary driving period. driving improvement course. incurred within a period of 2 vehicle; you are not allowed years, the driver can be to drive your vehicle at a If you have accumulated 10 disqualified by a court from speed in excess of 70 km/h DOPs incurred within the past holding or obtaining a driving (on roads with speed limit 2 years, you are also required licence for a certain period. greater than 70 km/h); and to attend the driving Any scheduled offence drive on the right most lane of improvement course (i.e. for committed as from that date expressways where three or every 10 DOPs). attracts DOPs if the driver: more traffic lanes are open for Upon your satisfactory use by traffic unless you are – is convicted by a court; or attendance and completion heading for a right side exit. of the course, 3 DOPs will – becomes liable to a fixed If you are a probationary be deducted from the total penalty of that offence. rider of motor cycle or motor number of DOPs you have For more information of tricycle, you are not allowed ʻPʼ plate for probationary incurred. However, no DOP DOPs system, scheduled to carry any passenger. drivers of motor cycles, motor will be deducted if on the offences and their tricycles, private cars and light completion date of the corresponding DOPs, see goods vehicles to display on course, you: ʻFurther Reference Materialsʼ. their vehicles. 48 For All Drivers Before Moving Off Before getting into your Wear secured footwear with Blind spots Route planning vehicle, check that there are full enclosure of foot when you no obstructions nearby which drive. Do not wear any loose Before moving off, you would be unable to see shoes, open back shoes, ensure that you know when seated. In particular, sandals, high heels, etc. how to get to your check that there are no destination. For children near the vehicle. Pre-start routine example, Transport Department's Pay particular attention to mobile application can help you the blind spots at the rear. plan the route. You can access it Are all the by your smartphone or desktop Once seated, ensure that doors properly computer (see ‘Further all doors, including the closed? Reference Materialsʼ). passenger doors, are securely shut and that child safety A safe system for driving Is your driving locks on doors, where fitted, Well before you carry out any seat in the right are secured when children are manoeuvre – moving off, turning position? in the vehicle, and that seat left, turning right, changing lanes, belts are being worn. slowing down, stopping, reversing, Are the mirrors overtaking or performing any other If you are going to drive an clean and movement – always carry out the unfamiliar vehicle, make sure properly following routine: you know where the various adjusted? Think – you should think carefully controls are and also any what you want to do in good time. difference in the way they Have you, and Look – you should check if it is operate. your safe to do it by looking ahead, looking behind in your mirrors or If your pet or animal is in the passengers, put on seat belts? other monitoring displays, and vehicle, keep it under control looking all around. and ensure that it cannot Signal – when it is safe, signal disturb you while driving. Is the hands- what you intend to do. This signal You must also not let it out of free kit of your mobile phone must be correct, clear and given your vehicle onto the road in good time. unless it is under control. ready for use? The grey areas are blind A driver of a large vehicle, spots – areas a driver cannot such as a bus or lorry, may Look again – check that it is still Make sure no passenger see. Outside mirrors help to not normally have the use of safe to carry out or complete your or load obstructs your reduce blind spots. an inside mirror. The blind manoeuvre. movement or view. spots will be larger, Always use the think – particularly to the rear. look – signal – look again routine well in advance of every manoeuvre. 49 For All Drivers On the Road Moving off parked vehicles, allow room mobile phone or any other short while, for example, to • If possible, arrange a for a door to be opened. telecommunication equipment alight to help your second driver with you. Before moving off, you must Parts of your vehicle may or their accessories by passengers. use your mirrors or other overhang, such as mirrors. holding it in your hand, or monitoring displays, and look Safe and courteous driving If so, allow more room. holding it between your head around as well for a final Avoid fatigue driving Bad driving habits and and shoulder. Even if you are check. Look out for You must not allow • Do not drive if you are tired. manners are more than not holding your mobile pedestrians who may be passengers to hold the Have a good rest before irksome and rude. They are phone, you should also avoid crossing or standing by your steering wheel or to lean out driving. often dangerous and using it (e.g. reading or vehicle. A small child may be of a window. sometimes illegal. You should texting) while driving. You will • Plan your trip well ahead hidden from view. Signal be more courteous and In a traffic hold-up or in slow be distracted by the use of particularly for a long before moving out. Move off co-operative. Bad driving moving traffic, do not try to mobile phone and will not journey. only when you can do so adds to congestion and jump the queue by cutting have proper control of your safely without making other • Do not drink alcohol or take general aggravation. into another lane or by vehicle. If you wish to use vehicles change speed or drugs. Just a small amount overtaking the vehicles waiting mobile phone while driving, Always avoid: direction. will aggravate the effects of in front of you. either stop in a safe place or – fatigue and impair Travelling too fast ask a passenger for Observe the speed limit and On narrow or winding roads, significantly your driving Driving along assistance. adjust your speed to suit the or roads where there is a lot ability. Drink or drug driving Keep to the left except traffic flow, the road and of traffic following, drivers of Drivers who have a real need is also a criminal offence. when traffic signs or road weather conditions, and your large or slow-moving vehicles to use mobile phone while markings indicate you may do • Plan to take regular breaks ability. Remember that as should be prepared to pull in, driving must use hands-free otherwise; when intending to during a long journey. speed increases, the stopping and slow down or stop, as device and are advised to overtake or turn right; or when Get out of the car, and distance and the severity of soon as there is a suitable keep the conversation short. you have to pass stationary have a snack or a stretch, any accident will increase. opportunity to do so, so as Also, if you use mobile phone vehicles or pedestrians on the if possible. to give faster vehicles a or other equipment as a – Although road. Allow others to overtake Going too slow chance to overtake. driving aid such as navigation • If you feel tired while some consider this to be safer if they want to. Do not drive device, you must still focus on driving, lower the windows driving, it may be irritating to on a footpath or pavement by Do not drive while wearing road conditions and are to let fresh air in or lower other drivers. If you observe the side of the road. Do not earphones. Do not play an advised to use audio guide. the temperature of the air- traffic building up behind you, drive on a hard shoulder, audio device loudly as it conditioning to keep you look for an opportunity to hard strip or verge. would distract your attention You must turn off the engine, awake. Where condition move over or pull off the road towards emergency siren or engage the vehicle in first When driving, keep away from permits, find a suitable to allow other motorists to horns. You must not watch gear (manual) or park mode the edge of the road. Do not parking space to stop and pass. On a multi-lane road, television or video while (automatic), and apply firmly drive close to the pavement take a rest, but never stop merge quickly but safely, driving. the parking brake before or verge; allow room for a on an expressway or a road matching your speed with vacating the vehicle, even pedestrian to step onto the While vehicle is in motion, with fast moving traffic. other traffic. though you just leave for a roadway. When passing you are prohibited from using 50 For All Drivers

Following too close – Poor lane discipline – and cyclists the same rights the overtaking manoeuvre Let heavy vehicles pass – Following too close to the The rules are simple, but and courtesy as any other farther back to see that the To conserve fuel, heavy vehicle in front is a major widely ignored. Stay in your drivers. road is clear, pass quickly and vehicle drivers tend to cause of accidents. When lane. Donʼt drive over the wait until you can see the maintain a steady speed. – This includes driving, keep a suitable clear centre line, drift from side to Bad manners front of the vehicle in your They need more braking time a host of misbehaviour – distance between you and the side, zigzag through traffic, rear-view mirror before and accelerate more slowly cursing, obscene gestures, vehicle in front (see page 54 bully your way into another returning to the same lane. If it than cars, and they usually go use of the horn unnecessarily, ʻStopping Distanceʼ). lane or stay unnecessarily in is raining, be extremely faster downhill and slower playing loud music, refusing to the fast lane. When changing cautious. The water spray uphill. Many drivers donʼt like – Keep merge, littering (including Unsafe overtaking lanes, remember ʻThink, Look, from long/heavy vehicles can to follow them and sometimes left unless overtaking. Do not cigarette butts) and any other Signal, Look againʼ. Even with impair your view. speed up when the heavy overtake unless it is safe to act of rudeness or selfishness your mirrors, there are blind vehicle tries to pass. The do so; indicate your intention that may annoy others. A little – spots which they cannot Not drive too close result is often 20 tonnes of during the manoeuvre and more courtesy and If you drive too close to the cover, so it is important to heavy vehicle riding your observe other traffic both consideration by all of us vehicle in front, the driver in take a quick glance over your bumper – definitely not a behind and ahead of you. could make driving safer and front may not see your vehicle shoulder for a final check. good situation and should be The manoeuvre should be more pleasurable. and you also canʼt see any of avoided. done quickly but smoothly. – If there the road ahead and anticipate Failure to give way – Make sure you When being overtaken, is no ‘give way’ sign, the rules Ignorance any potential hazards. In bad fully understand and comply Not travel in the long do not increase your speed, of the road dictate that cars weather, vehicle spray ʼ – with all traffic laws, signs and vehicle s blind spot but be prepared to slow down entering from the minor road reduces visibility as well. Alongside a long vehicle, just markings. if necessary. Overtake only on or access should give way to behind its doors, is another the right side of the other those already on the major Be aware of air turbulence blind spot. Donʼt hang around – When passing, being vehicle. road, and cars making a right- Be cautious of long/heavy there. The driver of the long passed or meeting long/heavy turn must give way to vehicles vehicle may not be able to see vehicles, be aware that they Failure to use direction oncoming traffic. It is an Donʼt brake abruptly or cut you when making a lane – Accidents can push a large volume of air, like indicators offence not to pull over for an suddenly in front of vehicles, change. If you can, always be prevented if other drivers the bow of a ship, causing air emergency vehicle with its particularly heavy vehicles. allow long vehicles enough know your intentions to turbulence, particularly lights flashing or siren on. Heavy vehicles need almost room to change lanes. change direction. Therefore, affecting small vehicles, motor Failure to give right-of-way 50 percent more distance use the direction indicators in cycles and cycles. immediately can endanger than cars to stop. Always good time before changing you, your passengers and the leave a lot more distance direction whether to turn, Allow long vehicles room people the emergency vehicle between your car and a – Long vehicles change lanes or overtake and to turn is carrying or trying to reach. tractor-trailer. require a wide turning area. observe traffic both ahead You should: In addition, drivers should These vehicles need extra and behind before the actual – It takes always show consideration to Pass with care road space before making manoeuvre. Remember to longer to overtake a long pedestrians, even if they are their turns. Watch out for turn off the direction indicators vehicle, so allow yourself more jaywalking; give motorcyclists signals and give them room. after the manoeuvre. room and time to pass. Start 51 For All Drivers

Give way to other traffic and U-turns Use of horn Reversing Dangerous and careless to pedestrians when reversing. You must not carry out a You must not use your horn Before you reverse, make sure driving U-turn or turn your vehicle unless as a warning of danger that there are no pedestrians Do not rely on white reversing You must not drive in a around on a road, unless to other road users. Never use – particularly children and lights or reversing alarms to manner that creates an you can do so without it as a rebuke or when the elderly people – behind your alert other road users that you obvious and serious risk of endangering or obstructing traffic is temporarily stopped vehicle. Pay particular are reversing or about to causing death or injury to other road users. without danger. attention to ʻblind spotsʼ reverse. A pedestrian may not any person or causing behind you – that is, the parts see the light or hear the alarm. U-turn may be banned at serious damage to property of the road which cannot be Always look and listen. Only some junctions or along some seen from the driving seat. reverse if you can do so safely You will be regarded as length of road. ʻNo U-turnʼ If there is any doubt, get out, and without making other driving dangerously if signs (and may be with or ask a passenger to check, road users change speed or supplementary plates nos. 61 • the way you drive falls far to make sure. direction. or 62 on page 113) will below what would be indicate this. A Reversing Video Device As a safety practice, you may expected of a competent (RVD) can help you observe also turn on the hazard and careful driver; and the back when you are warning lights when parking • it would be obvious to a reversing vehicle or about to or reversing. competent and careful do so. In low light conditions, driver that driving in that Regulatory sign – marks the you should switch on the way would be dangerous. beginning of a ʻSilent zoneʼ auxiliary illumination when using RVD. Any dirt or rain You must drive with due You must not sound your horn drops on the camera may care and attention and with in a ʻSilent zoneʼ. An ‘End’ affect the image quality. reasonable consideration for sign marks the end of a ʻSilent other road users and your zoneʼ. ʻSilent zonesʼ are If you cannot see clearly passengers. Otherwise, you usually found near hospitals. behind or if you drive a large may be regarded as driving A ʻTime plateʼ may show the vehicle, get someone to guide carelessly. Regulatory sign – No U-turn period of its operation. you when you reverse. You must not reverse unless it can The rules and advice in this chapter will help you drive Use your mirrors often so Headlamp flashing be done safely and you must also not reverse for an safely and with consideration that you know what is behind The flashing of headlamps unreasonable distance or for others. you. has only one meaning – like time. Never reverse from a sounding your horn, it lets side road into a main road. other road users know you are there. Do not flash headlamps for any other reason. 52 For All Drivers

Police signs Switch off engines of idling vehicles Allowing idling vehicles to run their engines causes air pollution, heat and noise nuisances and fuel wastage. It is an offence for a driver to allow the engine to operate for more than three minutes in aggregate within any Temporary informatory sign – continuous 60 minutes while be prepared to stop if the vehicle is stationary, signalled to do so by a police unless an exemption applies. Temporary regulatory sign – officer or if indicated by a In general, exemptions are you must stop before the traffic sign. provided to drivers stopping sign. due to traffic conditions or In an emergency, or for other Temporary regulatory sign – for boarding/alighting purposes, the police may you must slow down to a passengers, and also to erect temporary signs and speed, slower than normal, drivers of certain classes of barriers. In addition to the at which you can stop vehicle to meet their temporary police signs quickly and safely. operational needs, etc. shown, other traffic signs and flashing blue and amber Further details of the lights may be used to warn restrictions and exemptions and guide you. may be obtained from the Environmental Protection Department or its website (see ‘Further Reference Materialsʼ).

53 For All Drivers Stopping Distance Shortest stopping distance in metres On a dry road, an alert driver with a car equipped with good Thinking distance + braking distance = stopping distance brakes and tyres driving at speeds shown on the left, can

40km/h 10m 10m 20m stop in the distances shown vehicle speed on the right. These are the shortest stopping distances. Thinking distance + braking distance = stopping distance The stopping distance is the thinking distance plus the 60km/h 15m 20m 35m vehicle speed braking distance.

Thinking distance + braking distance = stopping distance Thinking distance – the distance the vehicle 80km/h 20m 40m 60m vehicle speed travels after the driver has seen the danger and before the brakes are on. An average double-decker bus is about 12 metres long. Compare the distances shown with a line of buses Thinking distance increases greatly for drivers suffering from slow reactions, tiredness, illness or lack of concentration. Wet roads – double braking distance Braking distance – the distance the vehicle travels after the brakes have been put on before stopping. Braking distance increases greatly with wet and slippery roads, poor brakes or tyres.

54 For All Drivers How Fast You must obey the speed reasonable and practical rule How big should a gap be? Two-second rule A simple aid to judging the limits for the road and for your to apply in good conditions is Leave a big enough gap distance of a two-second vehicle. A speed limit is the a two-second time gap – between you and the vehicle time gap – and one which maximum speed allowed. more if you are driving a heavy in front – big enough for you can be practised by driver or It does not mean that it is vehicle. to stop safely if the vehicle passenger (e.g. ‘A’ car in the safe to drive at that speed – suddenly slows down or Note: km/h means diagram) – is to select an always take into account all stops. kilometres per hour. easily identifiable mark on the the conditions prevailing at the road or roadside ahead and time. Continuously try to anticipate B as the vehicle in front passes the situation on the road Never drive so fast that you it (e.g. ‘B’ car in front just ahead and leave yourself cannot stop well within the passes a roadside sign), say room to work – room to distance which you can see the phrase ʻone thousand recognise a developing as being clear. Go much more one, one thousand twoʼ at a situation and to act. slowly if the road is wet or if normal speaking rate, which there is fog or mist. Do not If you have to take panic should take about two brake sharply except in an action because you have seconds. emergency. insufficient room to act If the driver in the ʻAʼ car smoothly, you are either going reaches the traffic sign before too fast or driving too close to judge the finishing saying the phrase, the vehicle in front. 2-second the driver ʻAʼ is too close to On wet roads, or if your tyres, time gap the ʻBʼ car in front (less than brakes, or even your health, the two-second time gap). are below par, the gap should In bad conditions, double the The maximum speed on all be much bigger than normal. count to four seconds, or roads is 50km/h unless And when a vehicle overtakes even more. ʻspeed limitʼ signs show you and moves into the gap otherwise. ahead, drop back to regain A your safe gap. The safe rule is to leave your stopping distance between your vehicle and the one in front. On roads with faster traffic it becomes much more Variable speed limit signs important to keep a safe gap. Your stopping distance is still the only really safe gap but a 55 For All Drivers Overtaking Do not overtake unless you If the vehicle you are Overtaking a large vehicle are sure you can do so overtaking increases speed, without causing danger to drop back if necessary and others as well as yourself. return to your normal lane Before you start to overtake, behind it. Ensure that the road make sure the road is clear far behind is still clear by using enough ahead and behind. your mirrors. Use your mirrors and signal small large On a normal two-lane road, before you start to move out. blind spot blind spot give way to vehicles coming Be particularly careful at dusk, towards you before you pass at dawn, in the dark and in parked vehicles or other mist, when it is more difficult obstructions on the left-hand to judge speed and distance. side of the road. On faster roads, vehicles may Do not increase your speed be approaching much more while being overtaken. Slow quickly than you think. Make signal down, if necessary, to let the sure that the road is clear for left overtaking vehicle pass. a long way ahead. Once you have started to overtake, move quickly past the vehicle you are overtaking A and leave it plenty of room. Then move back to the left side of the road as soon as you can, but without cutting in. B Overtaking only on the right. signal right Getting too close behind a large vehicle makes it impossible to see far enough ahead. The ʻAʼ car is too close. The driver of the ʻBʼ car, who is keeping much farther back, has a much better view.

56 For All Drivers

Overtaking on dual You must not overtake You should not overtake You may overtake/pass on the left carriageways • Where you cannot see far • When the driver in front • When traffic is moving Overtake only on the right. enough ahead to be sure gives a right-turn signal slowly in queues, and Never move to a lane on the that it is safe to do so, for and you may overtake that vehicles in a lane on the left to overtake. You must not example, when at or vehicle on the left without right are moving more use a hard shoulder for coming to a corner or a getting in the way of slowly than you are, you overtaking. bend or the brow of a hill. others and without may pass on the left. entering a bus lane during Do not overtake unless it is • Where you might come • When traffic is moving its period of operation. safe for yourself and others. into conflict with other slowly in queues, you may Many accidents on dual road users, for example, • When you want to turn left move to a lane on your left carriageways are rear-end at a junction, where the at a junction, you may only in order to turn left or collisions. Before you start to road narrows or on the pass on the left. to park. Do not change Sign marking the beginning overtake, make sure that the approach to a pedestrian lanes to the left in order to of ʻNo overtakingʼ • On one-way road (but not lane you will be joining is clear crossing. overtake. dual carriageway), you far enough ahead and behind. You must not overtake Traffic may be coming up from • Where it would involve may pass on either side. • If you have to cross or driving over an area behind much more quickly • Where there are 'double drive on double white marked with hatched than you think. Signal before white' lines along the road lines, with the solid line white lines. you move out. Be particularly between you and the lane nearer to you. careful at dusk, in the dark • On the approach to a on the right, and both and in fog or mist, when it is • If you are within the zigzag tram stop. traffic streams are moving more difficult to judge speed area of a ʻZebraʼ crossing. in the same direction, you • When to do so would and distance. may pass on the left. • After a ʻNo overtakingʼ force another vehicle to Get back to the left most lane sign and until the end of swerve or slow down. • When using marked traffic as soon as possible after the ban. lanes, you may pass a • When to do so would overtaking, but do not cut in tram on the left, unless the force a pedestrian right in front of the vehicle you tram is stationary at a tram crossing the road to stop have just overtaken. Leave stop where there is no or run. plenty of room. tram stop island.

Overtaking on expressways If in doubt – do not overtake. On expressways, it is an offence to overtake on the left (see page 71).

57 For All Drivers Pedestrians Tram stops On the roadway Pedestrian priority zone

Beware of pedestrians When entering or emerging Warning sign – pedestrians on from a place facing the road, Drivers have the legal and or crossing road ahead Regulatory sign – pedestrian wherever possible use proper moral responsibility to priority zone driveways and avoid reversing On roads with no or very take proper care to avoid onto the road. Give way to narrow pavements or You must give way to accidents with pedestrians When approaching a tram pedestrians. footpaths, pedestrians, pedestrians on the roadway at all times and places – island, look out for perhaps with children, may in a ʻPedestrian priorityʼ zone. even if the pedestrians are pedestrians crossing to or be walking on the roadway or The traffic sign marks the jaywalking. Always give way Crossing the road from the island. Some may be crossing ahead. Be on the beginning of the zone and to pedestrians on the looking for oncoming traffic Junctions are a common look-out and keep your speed an ʻEndʼ plate is added to roadway. and not for traffic from your place for pedestrians to cross down and be prepared to indicate end of the zone. the road, particularly across a direction. If a tram has Drive carefully and slowly stop. Give pedestrians side road where it joins a main stopped, look out for Drive carefully to give way when pedestrians are around walking on the roadway plenty road. pedestrians who may appear to pedestrians, pedestrians particularly in crowded , of room. from behind the tram. with handcarts or trolleys, or when you see a bus stop, Give way to pedestrians Look out for pedestrians processions or other or are near a stall. Look out for If there is no tram island you crossing the road into which forced to walk on the roadway marching groups on the road. pedestrians entering the road must stop behind the yellow you are turning. when a pavement or footpath Give them plenty of room suddenly, for example, from ʻStopʼ line (see page 127) When approaching a major is closed or blocked by road and keep your speed down. behind parked or stopped and give way to pedestrians road, give way to pedestrians works. If there is insufficient room to vehicles. In particular, when crossing to or from the tram. crossing or waiting to cross. pass, slow down or stop until you are driving a relatively Wait until there are no more the pedestrians move away quiet vehicle (e.g. an electric/ passengers getting on or off Look out for pedestrians and it is safe to do so. hybrid vehicle), pedestrians crossing the road in front of or the tram and look out for may not notice that you are from behind parked vehicles. people hurrying to catch approaching. the tram. 58 For All Drivers

Drive slowly near schools or Disabled pedestrians Child pedestrians School crossing patrols Safety of pedestrians children’s playgrounds and look out for children crossing Pedestrians are not just the road, or getting on or off ʻtrafficʼ – they are people. buses. Their movements are unpredictable, and the Do not park or wait at or younger they are the faster near school or playground they are likely to move or entrance or exit, particularly change direction. Children, when children are leaving or the elderly, the visually arriving. impaired and the disabled all Parked vehicles and vehicles need your special attention. Warning sign – disabled reversing or moving off create The rules and advice in this persons ahead School crossing patrol sign risks for children. If taking a chapter often refer to or take – you must stop at the sign Look out for disabled child from school, park in a into consideration the safety (see page 14). pedestrians who may have safe place a little way from the of pedestrians. Looking out mobility, visual or hearing school and then walk to the You must stop when and making allowances for impairment and give them school entrance. Do not stop signalled to do so by a pedestrians is a continuous plenty of time to cross the or wait on the opposite side of school crossing patrol task for a driver, particularly road. the road to the school showing a hand-held ʻStopʼ when driving along urban entrance since the child may sign. Give way to roads, near junctions, become excited to see you Elderly pedestrians Warning sign – children going pedestrians who are still pedestrian crossings, bus and run onto the road without As people grow older, their to and from school ahead crossing even if the patrol stops or road works, in poor following the Road Crossing reaction time become allows vehicles to move. weather or at night. Children cannot judge speed Code. longer and the likelihood of Pedestrians other than very well and young children The safety of pedestrians is inattention increases together school children may use a also have difficulty in also important when you with a general physical or school crossing patrol. concentrating on and stop or park your vehicle. mental deterioration. understanding the dangers of Advance warning of some The elderly may not judge the road. Small children are school crossing patrols may speed very well or notice also more easily hidden by be given by the ‘children approaching traffic and parked vehicles, roadside ahead’ warning sign. A twin may step onto the road objects or other pedestrians. flashing amber light below unexpectedly. Give them Children may step or run onto the sign warns you that a plenty of time to cross the the road unexpectedly. patrol is operating ahead. road.

59 For All Drivers Cyclists Look out for cyclists and If you are driving a high-sided using a cycleway or bus lane). Child cyclists Cycle routes may cross make allowance for the vehicle, slow down to pass Do not overtake a cycle normal roadway, particularly at Children on cycles, and others differences between your and give extra room to before turning left. Instead, junctions. Look out for cyclists learning to ride, need plenty of vehicle and theirs. If you are cyclists to avoid unbalancing follow the cycle and then entering the main roadway room. Give them a wide berth driving behind a cyclist, be them with the air turbulence make the turn behind it. from a cycleway or cycle lane when you are passing and patient and do not attempt behind your vehicle. Cyclists (see pages 38 and 39 for Before opening your door, always be ready in case they to overtake until there is may also be affected by more information on the traffic always look back to check wobble or change direction sufficient room to do so cross-winds. signs and road markings that that no approaching traffic, suddenly. without forcing the cyclist to mark cycleways or cycle Cyclists may ride in the especially motorcyclists move towards the kerbside. lanes). centre of the lane, especially or cyclists, would be The younger they are, the when on a narrow road or endangered. Ensure that your more closely you should approaching a junction. passengers do the same. Motorcyclists watch out for them, and be Watch out and be patient with ready to slow down or stop. There are many situations in them. Cyclists looking over their which a two-wheeled vehicle shoulder or glancing around is In headwinds or in wet is less stable than other a sign to you that they may be weather, cyclists tend to vehicles, so leave plenty of going to move out or turn. keep their heads down. room, especially for riders on This creates risk; be alert for less powerful machines. Cyclists have the same rights it and for the danger of to consideration as other As with cyclists, be on the cyclists skidding (side- Warning sign – Cycleway road users and they are more look-out for motorcyclists slipping) on smooth wet ahead (cyclists on or crossing vulnerable. Drivers (especially who may move up on your surfaces. road ahead) of large/long vehicles or of left when you are preparing vehicles towing trailers) should Cyclists going uphill or or waiting to turn left. When you are turning into or Cycleways or cycle lanes take extra care when in the carrying bulky loads, or who waiting to enter a main road, Cycleways or cycle lanes are Keep a special look-out at vicinity of cyclists – slow down are young or inexperienced look out not only for vehicles indicated by traffic signs and junctions for motorcyclists. and leave plenty of room for may move unexpectedly. but also for cycles which may road markings. All road users Motor cycles are much less cyclists. Slow down and leave extra not be as noticeable. It is except cyclists must not enter easy to be seen than other room for them. Cyclists may make sudden because your view of a cyclist a cycleway or cycle lane. vehicles, but may be going sideways movements due to When you are going to turn head-on is much narrower just as fast. road conditions, such as road left, and especially if you have than your view of a motor debris, oil or surface damage to wait at the corner, look out vehicle. – give them as much room as for cyclists who may have you could when passing any moved up between you and cyclists. the roadside kerb. Look out for them (or who may be 60 For All Drivers Other Road Users the rear and to the left of their limited view, the driver of the Public transport Vehicle markings Animals vehicles. large vehicle may not be able Try to give way to buses and to see you – the vehicle on public light buses waiting to When turning at junctions, the left and to the rear on the move out from stops or large vehicles may need more left. You should look out for Marking on the rear of a stands if you can do so safely. room to manoeuvre and may the vehicle turning or medium or heavy goods not be able to adhere to the Do not drive on tram only lane changing lanes. If you get so vehicle or its trailer, advice given in this chapter. (see page 127 for the road close, you may not even see total length not longer than A large vehicle may move to marking). Try to give way the driver’s warning signals. 13 metres the right first when turning left, to trams, particularly at and sometimes it may even At all times give large vehicles junctions. Give trams plenty of move into the adjacent right plenty of room to manoeuvre room – they cannot change lane or use the full width of and be ready to stop. Do direction to avoid you. the roadway. not overtake on the left particularly at junctions – When turning, the rear end of Taxis and public light including the approach and Marking on the rear of a a long vehicle or trailer may buses exit – or when the vehicle is goods vehicle, or its trailer, swing into your path – the rear In the urban areas, taxis slowing down – the driver may total length longer than 13 end may swing out to the left and public light buses make be slowing down to turn left metres if the vehicle is turning right. up a large part of the traffic. across your path. The larger The rear of the vehicle may The above markings may They have to pick up or set and longer the vehicle, the not follow the same path as vary slightly in position or down passengers frequently, greater the hazards. the front of the vehicle. Keep shape. therefore they may stop clear of large vehicles when In urban areas access by suddenly or cut across traffic Go slowly when you see they are turning. large vehicles may be made Emergency vehicles lanes. You should allow room animals on the road or difficult or impossible by for a taxi or public light bus to Drivers of large vehicles may You must give way and take roadside ahead. Give them parked or stopped vehicles. move or stop unexpectedly, find it difficult to cross or turn all possible actions to make plenty of room and be ready Park your vehicle at a suitable without having to brake right onto a dual carriageway way for the passage of to stop if necessary. Do not parking place so as not to suddenly yourself. without stopping in the gap in emergency vehicles, frighten them by sounding obstruct the passage of all the central reservation. If a including police vehicle, fire your horn or revving up your types of vehicles. Large vehicles long vehicle has to stop in a services vehicle, ambulance engine. You must stop if gap that is too short, part of or customs and excise requested to do so by a Large vehicles, especially if the vehicle will block wholly or service vehicle, which are person in charge of the they are long or articulated, partly some of the traffic lanes sounding sirens or animals. cannot always keep within of the dual carriageway. displaying flashing beacon. traffic lanes when turning. Your proper actions can The drivers of large vehicles If you are at the rear left of a help save the lives of those also have a restricted view to large vehicle, because of the in emergency need. 61 For All Drivers White Lines and Traffic Lanes Along the road Two-way roads Traffic lanes Hazard markers – these small Hazard warning area discs or rectangular markers Keep between the traffic lane (see signs 65 to 67 on page lines – the short broken white 118) are found on roadside lines which divide the road objects or special posts to into lanes. Keep in the left indicate the edge of the road most lane unless you are or an obstruction near the overtaking, turning right or edge. Red markers are used passing parked vehicles. on the left edge of a road; The warning line may replace white markers are used on the normal lane line the right edge of a single or centre line near a hazard. carriageway and amber markers are used on the right If there is a traffic island with a Do not change lanes unless edge of the central reservation ʻKeep leftʼ sign in the middle it is safe to do so. of a dual carriageway. of the road, pass to the left of Do not move unnecessarily the island. You must not drive from lane to lane. If you need to the right. Reflecting road studs to move to another lane, first Road studs delineate the A single broken line in the look to see that it is safe to do edges of a carriageway or the middle of the road, with short so, remembering to use the division of traffic lanes. These markings and long gaps, is mirrors. If it is safe to move help drivers at night or in poor a centre line. You should over, signal before doing so. visibility. normally drive to the left of Make sure this will not force this line except when other drivers to swerve or White studs mark the lane overtaking. slow down. lines and the centre of a road. Red studs mark the left edge A single broken line on the In a traffic hold-up or in slow of a carriageway. Amber studs road with long markings and moving traffic, do not try to mark the right edge of short gaps, is a warning line. jump the queue by cutting a carriageway adjacent to the This is to give warning of a into another lane or by central reservation. Green hazard ahead. Do not cross it overtaking the vehicles waiting studs indicate the edge of unless you can see the road in front of you. the carriageway at a road An area formed by warning ahead is clear. Drive with Traffic Centre Warning junction, lay-by or passing lines and hatched marking. It particular care. lane line line Along the edge of the road place. is there to separate traffic line Edge lines – on some roads, streams liable to be a danger solid or broken white lines are to one another or to protect The longer the marking, the marked on the edge of the traffic turning right. Do not greater the hazard. roadway. drive over or enter the area. 62 For All Drivers Double White Lines ʻDouble whiteʼ lines are used to separate traffic travelling in Except where ʻDouble whiteʼ opposite directions where your view of the road is limited. lines are used to separate traffic travelling in the same direction, you may cross ʻDouble whiteʼ lines to make a right-turn into or out of any road, premises or place adjacent to the carriageway. You should not stop – not even if the broken line is on your side. If there is no convenient lay-by, you may, however, stop briefly to load or unload goods or passengers. You may cross ʻDouble whiteʼ lines to avoid an accident, or to conform with a direction given by a police officer, traffic warden, traffic sign or road marking.

ʻDouble whiteʼ lines are also used to control lane changing. If the ʻDouble whiteʼ lines are used to A warning arrow marked on If the line nearer to you is Sometimes to increase the If the line nearer to you is separate traffic travelling in the road will give you time to solid, you must not cross or separation of opposing broken, you may cross or the same direction and the ʻget over to the leftʼ before drive on the lines. streams of traffic, the gap drive on the lines, but only if line nearer to you is solid, the ʻDouble whiteʼ lines between the solid lines is it is safe to do so. you must not cross or drive begin. widened with hatched You may cross the lines to on them, even though you markings. You must not drive overtake if you can do so are going to make a right- on the lines or enter the before reaching a solid white turn into or out of any road, hatched area. line on your side. premises or place adjacent to the carriageway.

63 For All Drivers Light Rail Lanes A light rail lane which operates at all times is indicated by signs and markings.

LRV Platform

ʻRAIL ONLYʼ lane markings Box marking prohibits ʻKeep rightʼ Warning sign ‘Light rail vehicles only’ sign ‘Light rail stop’ marking and the thick solid white line vehicles stopping on it. directs indicates light indicates the start of a light rail mark the ʻRAIL ONLYʼ area. You must not enter the box other traffic rail vehicles in lane. Other vehicles and unless the exit is clear. not to enter the road pedestrians must not enter the ‘RAIL ahead. the ‘RAIL ONLY’ area. ONLY’ lane.

64 For All Drivers Bus Lanes A typical bus lane is indicated by signs and markings. It is operated for the period as shown and can be used exclusively for all buses, including franchised and non- franchised.

Warning sign ‘Bus lane Regulatory sign marks the Road marking marks the Signs warn side road traffic of ‘End of bus lane’ sign and ahead’ in advance of a bus beginning of a bus lane and opening of a bus lane for a bus lane in the main road road marking indicate the lane will give you time to specifies the period of its turning traffic at a junction. ahead. end of a bus lane and that move to an open traffic lane. operation. the lane is open to all traffic. You may move across the bus There are two types of bus Outside its period of operation lane to turn left at the junction lanes. For bus lanes that a bus lane may be used by all ahead. are exclusively used by vehicles. franchised buses, the signs A thick solid white line on the are marked with a bus road marks the edge of a bus symbol. For bus lanes that lane. are open to all buses, including non-franchised buses, the signs are marked with the word ʻBusʼ.

65 For All Drivers One-Way Roads Traffic on one-way roads Lane discipline on a one-way Contra-flow bus lane flows in one direction only. road is important. Select the The ʻOne-way trafficʼ sign lane which will lead to your Bus lanes sometimes indicates the direction of the destination, using either lane operate on one-way roads. permitted traffic flow. You markings or direction signs for Information on bus lanes must not drive in the opposite information, then stay in it. can be found on the page direction. The sign can be Keep to the left most lane if before. found at the entry to a one- you are turning to the left; Contra-flow bus lanes are way road and at intervals the right most lane if you are lanes that operate on one- along a one-way road. turning to the right. If you are way roads in the opposite going straight, be guided by ʻNo entryʼ signs are generally direction to the normal traffic road markings. When the erected at exit of a one-way ‘One-way traffic’ sign – drive If there is a traffic island with a flow. road is not wide enough for a road to prohibit all vehicles in the direction indicated. ʻPass either sideʼ sign, there is middle lane, you may choose from entering. no need to change lanes as the left or right of the road. the traffic lanes on both sides It is not always easy to tell if Having made your choice of of the island will meet along you are about to enter or are lane, get into it as soon as the same route. on a one-way road, and you can do so safely and stay perhaps your view of the Side roads leading off a one- in it, but look out for other sign is blocked by a parked way road may also be one- Contra-flow bus lane drivers who may change lanes vehicle. Look at the vehicles way. You should expect traffic (franchised buses) sign – do suddenly. Traffic may overtake parked in the street. On a to join the road from either not drive onto the bus lane on either side on a one-way one-way road they will all be side, and if you are intending on the opposite side of the road. facing one way. Vehicles are to turn off down a side road, road at any time. normally parked facing the look well ahead to check that same direction as the traffic entry to it is actually allowed. flow. Sometimes lane ʻNo entryʼ sign – no entry for indication arrows may guide all vehicles, do not drive past you. this sign.

Sign placing at the beginning of a contra-flow bus lane (franchised buses) – No entry of motor vehicles except franchised buses. 66 For All Drivers Narrow Roads, Steep Hills Narrow roads Steep hills

Sign marking a passing place Warning sign – the road Warning sign – a steep uphill on a narrow or winding road ahead narrows on both sides section of road ahead Some roads (often called The ratio shows the gradient, single track roads) are only the higher the ratio, the wide enough for vehicles to steeper the slope. For move in one direction at a example, a 1:5 slope time. They may have special (or 20%) is steeper than a passing places along the 1:10 slope (or 10%). road. When you see a vehicle Warning sign – a steep When driving downhill, for coming towards you, or downhill section of road other than a short distance, the driver behind wants to ahead, with advice on do not rely solely on your overtake, and a nearby selecting a low gear footbrake to slow down the passing place is on your side vehicle. To maintain control, (left side), pull in; if it is on the Warning sign – the road select and stay in a low gear other side (right side), wait ahead narrows on the left side and adjust speed with light opposite it. Give way to These warning signs are also pressure on the footbrake. vehicles coming uphill used as temporary signs at whenever possible. Do not (For advice on parking on road works when the normal park in passing places. hills, see page 95.) road width is reduced.

Vehicle waiting in a passing place to allow passage of oncoming vehicle or following vehicle to pass.

67 For All Drivers Dual Carriageways

signal right signal left signal left

A dual carriageway, or Even if you missed your On a three-lane carriageway The right lane is intended for Dual carriageway ahead divided , is a road turning at a junction or have the normal ‘Keep to the left’ overtaking only. If you use it, with a dividing strip between taken the wrong route you rule still applies. You may, move back to the middle lane opposing traffic flows. The must carry on until you reach however, stay in the middle and then into the left lane as dividing strip is called the the next junction. lane when there are slower soon as you can, but without central reservation. vehicles in the left lane, but cutting in. On a two-lane carriageway, you should return to the left You must not reverse or turn drive in the left lane except At some junctions, the right lane after passing them. Do on a dual carriageway, cross when overtaking. most lane may be used by A sign can usually be seen not stay in the middle lane the central reservation, or right-turning traffic or exit to in advance of a dual unnecessarily. drive against the traffic. specific destinations. Look carriageway. A dual out for direction signs, carriageway may cross the destination road markings road you are on or your road or lane indication arrows and may become a dual choose the correct lane for carriageway. your route in approaching junctions.

68 For All Drivers Roads with Faster Traffic Traffic usually travels faster Keeping your distance Speed limit on dual carriageways and from the vehicle in front is on some rural roads than important to allow yourself The speed limit for all roads on ordinary roads and you time to react if any is 50 km/h unless signed will need to assess traffic unexpected happens or in an otherwise. On roads with situations more quickly. emergency. If you follow close faster traffic, the speed limit Using your mirrors and to vehicle in front, you may may be 70 km/h, 80 km/h, concentrating all the time are not be able to stop or move to 100 km/h or 110 km/h. even more important where other lane in time to avoid a ‘Speed limit’ signs will be put traffic is faster. possible collision when it up to mark the beginning of a slows down or stops change of speed limit and will In good visibility and weather suddenly. be repeated along the road. conditions, drive at a steady A ‘50 km/h speed limit’ sign cruising speed within the Use the ‘Two-second’ rule – will mark the end of the limits for the road and for your leave at least a two-second higher speed limit. vehicle. You must not break time gap between you and the speed limit for the road the vehicle in front. When you are about to leave a road with faster traffic, or for your vehicle. On wet Regulatory signs showing the (See page 55 for more adjust your driving to suit the roads, or in fog or high winds, speed limit for the road in information on the ʻTwo- new conditions. Your speed keep your speed down. kilometres per hour secondʼ rule.) will be higher than you think Looking well ahead will give – 70 km/h on an open wide you more information on traffic The ʻReduce speed nowʼ road may feel like 50 km/h – plate is usually used with situation as well as more time so be sure to check your to react to it. some warning signs on roads speedometer. with faster traffic. Do not walk on the carriageway. In an emergency, You need to start slowing be particularly careful to keep down to a slow speed, or a children off the carriageway, speed lower than normal, so including the hard shoulder. as to drive safely through the You must turn on the hazard hazard ahead. warning lights if your vehicle is stationary on an expressway or a road with speed limit Warning sign – speed limit exceeding 50 km/h because lowered to 50 km/h ahead of breakdown or emergency. See Chapter 10 for advice on breakdowns and emergencies. 69 For All Drivers Expressways and Trunk Roads

Notes: For the latest list of expressways, see ʻFurther Reference Materialsʼ. 70 For All Drivers

Trunk roads are busy roads Part of the Hong Kong- Under the Road Traffic • You must not drive on the which link up areas and (Wong Chu Road to Zhuhai-Macao - (Expressway) Regulations, hard shoulder, verge or districts. Some trunk roads Tsuen Wan Road) Hong Kong there are special driving rules central reservation of an are designated as (excluding Scenic Hill to enhance road safety and expressway except during expressways. Tsing Long Highway Tunnel)(This expressway is maintain smooth traffic flow traffic diversion, breakdown (excluding Tai Lam Tunnel) 'a right-driving road’; you on expressways: or emergency. The All expressways and most must fully understand and boundary of the hard of the trunk roads are high • Keep to the left most lane (Lantau Toll Plaza to comply with the relevant shoulder, verge or central standard multi-lane dual of an expressway unless Tung Chung Eastern legislation, rules and advice reservation is normally carriageways with grade- you are heading for a right Interchange) on right-driving road - See indicated by a thick solid separated interchanges and side exit or overtaking 'Further Reference white line. are designed to carry a high another vehicle, and Lantau Link and Materials'.) volume of traffic at a higher Road overtake only on the right. • You must not U-turn or speed. reverse your vehicle on an • Medium goods vehicles, Tai Po Tai Wo Road expressway. The following roads are (Tolo Highway to Po Nga heavy goods vehicles and presently designated as Road) buses are prohibited from • You must not stop or expressways: using the right most lane of park your vehicle on any

Tsing Kwai Highway an expressway where the part of an expressway Tsuen Wan Road carriageway has three or except for breakdown or more traffic lanes available emergency, and in these and ʼ Tsing Sha Highway unless they are heading for situations, you must turn on Tate s Cairn Highway (Cheung Tsing Highway to (Sha Tin Road to a right side exit. Moreover, the hazard warning lights, Eagleʼs Nest Tunnel Road) if you ride a motor cycle or and if possible drive off the excluding Nam Wan Tunnel) motor tricycle, or drive a carriageway and stop on Start and continuation of an – Sha Tin private car or light goods the verge or hard shoulder. (Tolo Highway to West Highway expressway vehicle on an expressway Wo Che Estate) • Cyclists and pedestrians while holding a probationary are prohibited from using (Victoria Park Road to driving licence for the Tolo Highway expressways. Wire fences Wing Tai Road) corresponding vehicle are erected along the Fanling Highway class, the same restriction boundaries of expressway San Tin Highway applies to you. Kong Sham Western areas. Highway (Lam Tei Interchange to Shap Pat Heung Interchange)

End of an expressway 71 For All Drivers

• Vehicles driven by learner and alert. You need to give In this chapter, you will find • Looking well ahead to give • Joining and leaving a dual drivers, public light buses, yourself bigger margins rules and advice that will help yourself more time to react carriageway or an special purpose vehicles than on ordinary roads, you drive safely on – page 69. expressway at and any vehicle with an such as more space expressways and trunk intersections – pages 82 • Using headlamps if visibility engine of cylinder capacity between your vehicle and roads. and 83. under 125cc (or if the the one in front. is reduced – page 87. vehicles are solely propelled Some of the more important • Breakdowns and • When driving on • Maintaining a safe gap – by an – points are: emergencies – pages 133 expressways and trunk page 55. electric private car with a and 134. roads, your speed may be • Making sure you are in rated power less than 7 • Lane discipline and higher than you think. You good shape and your • Keeping left unless kilowatts, and electric overtaking — pages 56 may not only underestimate vehicle in good working overtaking – page 71. motor cycle or motor and 68. the stopping distance for condition – pages 41 tricycle with a rated power • Overtaking only on the your actual speed but also and 42. less than 3 kilowatts) are right – page 68. easily exceed the speed not allowed to use an limit. Although you may feel expressway, unless prior safe, you must not exceed Trunk roads and written permission has the speed limit for the road, expressways designated as been obtained from the or for your vehicle. There strategic routes are assigned Commissioner for Transport. may be hidden dangers. with route numbers and the The rules/advice below are exits along each route are • Higher noise levels, also generally applicable to also assigned with exit particularly in wet weather, Exit number on a direction expressways and trunk roads: numbers. These route and may prevent other drivers sign (the number shown in exit numbers are shown on white on black) • Vehicles tend to travel from hearing your horn. direction signs to assist you faster on expressways and Flashing your headlamps is in finding your way. A full trunk roads. The faster usually a better warning of description of the route speeds on expressways your presence when numbering system for and trunk roads mean that necessary. Be alert for such strategic routes is provided you need more time for a warning yourself. on pages 128 and 129. many driving actions. You • Change lanes only when on a direction need more time to slow there is a need and it is sign (the number shown in down and stop. You need safe to do so. Keep in the black on the yellow shield) more time to change middle of the lane you are direction. You should signal using and do not let your other road users your vehicle wander from side to intention as early as side or into other lane. possible. As with driving on any road, you need to be fit 72 For All Drivers Tunnel Areas and Control Areas Tunnel areas In a tunnel, you must not likely to be blocked. Autotoll • Use headlamps on main • Carry passenger on the beam. outside of a vehicle or seated so that any part of • Use a horn. ‘Autotoll lane’ his/her body hangs over sign displayed • Drive less than 25km/h in the sides or rear of the ‘Autotoll lane’ on top of a normal traffic. vehicle. guide mark traffic lane with • Cross or drive on ʻDouble • Stop except in an autotoll booth. whiteʼ lines. emergency (for example, ‘Autotoll lane’ guide marks are • Make a U-turn. to avoid an accident), painted at regular intervals Tunnel users must follow the or breakdown, or when you • Reverse. along traffic lanes leading to rules set out in the concerned are signalled to stop by a • Push a vehicle either by autotoll booths. Only vehicles tunnel ordinance(s), police officer, tunnel officer, hand or any other way. with valid tag may use autotoll regulation(s) and bylaw(s) traffic sign, or flashing red lanes. (refer to the relevant legislation • Drive a vehicle without light signal. No vehicles carrying on page 5). These rules enough fuel to pass specified dangerous goods • Get out of your vehicle apply to tunnel areas or through the tunnel. • Drive a vehicle carrying Control Areas tunnels, which generally except in an emergency or • Drive a bus, coach, dangerous goods listed as When you enter a control area include the tunnel tubes and to fetch help. medium / heavy goods ʻCategories 1, 2 or 5 goodsʼ (for example, Tsing Ma Control • Change tyre or wheel, the roads leading to or from vehicle, or tow another under the Dangerous Area or Tsing Sha Control the tunnel tubes. Traffic signs vehicle other than in the refuel or repair your vehicle. Goods (Application and Area), you must follow the rules above mark the start and end left most lane (except • Allow an animal to enter the Exemption) Regulations set out in the concerned of a tunnel area. Central - Wan Chai Bypass tunnel other than in your (Cap. 295A) without control area ordinance(s), You must obey all signals and Tunnel). vehicle. permission. regulation(s) and bylaw(s) (refer directions given by police • Drive a vehicle where your • Allow an animal to leave • Enter or exit on foot except to the relevant legislation on officers or tunnel officers. view to the front or sides is your vehicle. in an emergency. page 5) and the instructions given by authorised personnel Where there are two or more In gernal, all tunnels have two and special traffic arrangement Emergencies and in such area. Signs below lanes open to traffic through a tubes, one for each direction and temporary signs will be breakdowns show the start and end of a tunnel, select the appropriate of travel. Under normal used to guide you. You must control area. lane you wish to approach conditions the tubes are one- not overtake or drive in the If your vehicle breaks down and use in the tunnel. Keep in way roads, the same as a right most lane since in such or you are involved in a traffic lane through the tunnel, and dual carriageway. However, circumstances it would be the accident inside a tunnel, stop do not cross any ʻDouble if one tube is closed such as oncoming lane. and do not move your whiteʼ lines, even if your lane during maintenance at night, vehicle. Refer to information Be prepared for any diversions is temporarily blocked. the other open tube may and advice in Chapter 10 and the unexpected. implement two-way operation (page 133). 73 For All Drivers Junctions Approach junctions with Turning left Turning right great care. Consider your road position and your speed. Drive on only when you are sure it is safe to do so and you will not block the junction. Look out for long vehicles turning left or right which may have to use the whole width of the road to make the turn. When waiting to enter a junction, do not assume that a vehicle coming from your right which is signalling with its left direction indicator will turn left. Wait to make sure. Give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to Turning right from a narrow cross the road at junctions. road Look out for trams at Well before you turn right, junctions. use your mirrors to make sure you know the position and movement of traffic behind you. When it is safe, give a Well before you turn left, use right-turn signal and take up your mirrors and give a left- the position just left of the turn signal. Before and after ʻcentre’ line or in the space the turn keep as close to the marked for right-turn traffic. left as safety and space will If you can, leave room for allow. Do not swing out to the other vehicles to pass on the right when making the turn. left. Wait until there is a safe Make sure a cyclist or a gap between you and any A right-turn lane formed with motorcyclist is not coming oncoming vehicle. Then make hatched markings to protect from behind on your left. Look Turning right from a wide road the turn, but do not cut the the right-turn traffic out for pedestrians suddenly corner. coming out from pavement. 74 For All Drivers

When turning right at a When turning right at a junction where there is also signalised junction with a an oncoming vehicle turning right-turn pocket, you have right, drive your vehicle so to give way to the oncoming that you keep the oncoming traffic. When the traffic light vehicle to your left and pass for you is green, you may in front of it (nearside-to- proceed from the right-turn nearside) – unless traffic signs lane and wait inside the and road markings indicate pocket for a safe gap otherwise or nearside-to- between you and any nearside passing is oncoming vehicles. When impractical. waiting at the pocket, the traffic signals no longer apply Before conducting the turn, to you. You should judge an find a safe gap in the enough safe space for you to oncoming traffic and look pass and complete the turn if out for oncoming traffic it is safe to do so. approaching from behind the opposite right turning vehicle, as your view may be blocked by it.

Turning right Turning right (at a signalised junction with a right-turn pocket) (nearside-to-nearside)

75 For All Drivers

Junction ahead

You must turn You must go You must go left in this lane forward in this forward or turn Advance direction signs lane right in this lane (Local destinations are shown in black on white.)

When coming to junctions, be guided by any lane indication arrows on the road or any signs. Think about which Warning sign – the priority route you want to take and through the junction is get into the appropriate lane. Pointed direction sign at shown by the broader line. You must follow the direction junction The symbol will vary for Traffic sign showing traffic different junction layouts. given by the lane indication lanes for different movements arrow for the lane in which at junction ahead Warning of a junction ahead you are driving after passing is often given by an advance the transverse 'Stop' lines or direction sign or a warning 'Give way' lines. Do not Advance direction sign sign. On main roads, major change lanes suddenly or at showing the layout of the junctions have a rectangular- the last moment. junction ahead – the more shaped advance direction important the road from the sign some way before the junction, the thicker the line junction. Some of these on the sign. signs show a simple map of the junction layout. At the junction, a pointed direction sign marks the turn. 76 For All Drivers

At some junctions, you may not be allowed to turn into or enter one of the roads. Turn right only Illustrated at the left side are some prohibitory signs (circular with red border) telling what you may not do. There are also mandatory signs (blue circular) and you may only go in the direction Turn left only shown.

Ahead only

An advance direction sign No left-turn showing ʻNo entryʼ at the junction ahead.

No right-turn You must turn left at the junction ahead.

77 For All Drivers Traffic Light Junctions Do not go forward when Box junctions Tram and North-west railway traffic lights are green unless (light rail) crossing box you are sure there is room to junctions clear the junction safely. You must not go forward under red lights or when the red and amber lights are showing together. Where traffic lights show a green arrow filter signal, do not get into the lane where keep clear for filtering is allowed unless you pedestrians want to go in the direction shown by the arrow. Give way to pedestrians crossing or look out for pedestrians waiting to cross the road into which you are turning. If traffic lights are not working, slow down or even stop as necessary, treat the junction as a non-signalised junction You must not enter the box if Where a is and proceed through the the exit road or lane from it is crossed by tram tracks or light junction with extreme caution. not clear. rail tracks and is marked with the crossing box marking, you When you cannot go forward You may however enter the must not enter the box you must wait behind the box from a right-turn lane junction from any approach ʻStopʼ line. marked with 'Turn right' lane, including a right-turn arrows if you want to turn (For the meaning of traffic light lane, unless the exit right but are prevented from signals and advice on what to is clear. doing so by oncoming traffic do, see pages 106, 107 and or by other vehicles waiting to 108) turn right.

78 For All Drivers Stop and Give Way Junctions

‘Stop’ sign and road markings Warning sign ‘Give way’ sign and road Warning sign The upright ‘Give way’ – you must stop behind the showing the markings - you must give showing the sign and the ‘triangle’ road ‘Stop’ lines even if there is no distance to the way behind the ‘Give way’ distance to the marking are not used at traffic on the major road. ʻStopʼ lines. This lines to traffic on the major ʻGive wayʼ lines. junctions with relatively Wait for a safe gap in the sign is used road. Stop if necessary. This sign is used little traffic. traffic before you move off. when the view of Give way to pedestrians when the view of

Give way to pedestrians the junction is crossing or waiting to the junction is crossing or waiting to cross restricted. cross the minor road. restricted. the minor road.

79 For All Drivers Roundabouts When on a roundabout, Roundabout ahead look out for and show consideration to other vehicles crossing in front of you, especially those intending to leave by the next exit. On a spiral roundabout, You must turn left at the take note of the road marking entrance to a roundabout. guiding vehicles to leave the roundabout. Warning sign – roundabout ahead When you are leaving the roundabout, pay attention to Advance direction sign and road markings for a conventional any vehicles that may cross roundabout your path from behind on your When approaching a left even if the road marking at roundabout, decide as early a spiral roundabout is in your as possible which exit you will favour. take and get into the correct lane. Reduce your speed. In case you have missed the When entering a roundabout, exit, continue to circle around give way to any traffic on your the roundabout until you immediate right inside the reach that exit again and roundabout unless road leave. Advance direction sign and road markings for a spiral markings indicate otherwise; Look out for cyclists and roundabout and keep moving if the way motor cyclists, and give them is clear. Do not enter a more room. Look out for long roundabout if you see your vehicles which may have to exit is blocked. take a different course, both Give way to pedestrians on the approach to and on a crossing or waiting to cross. roundabout. Where there are two lanes at the entrance to a roundabout, follow the paths shown by the blue lines in the diagrams on page 81, unless signs or road markings indicate otherwise. One of the above signs can usually be seen in advance of a roundabout. 80 For All Drivers For All Drivers

Conventional roundabout Spiral roundabout Turning left Approach in the left lane and signal left. Keep travelling along the outer lane of the roundabout signal signal and continue to signal left to leave. left left

signal signal left left

Going straight ahead signal signal Advance direction sign and road markings for a conventional Approach in either the left or right lane left left roundabout (for 3-lane roundabout, left or middle lane). Do not signal. Keep to that lane on the roundabout. After passing the exit before the one you want, signal left to leave.

Turning right / U-turning signal signal Approach in the right lane (for 3-lane roundabout, left left Advance direction sign and road markings for a spiral right or middle lane) and signal right. roundabout Keep travelling along the inner lane of the roundabout (for 3-lane roundabout, inner or middle lane). Continue signalling right until you have passed the exit before the one you want, then signal left to leave signal signal (inner lane user of 3-lane roundabout may change to right right the middle lane first when signalling left). signal signal left left

One of the above signs can usually be seen in advance of a signal signal roundabout. right right 81 For All Drivers Junctions with Dual Carriageways Leaving a major (signs in blue)/an expressway (signs in green) The main features of an exit from a major trunk road/an expressway at a multi-level junction are shown. Other junctions may have some of these features.

deceleration lane

Information about the Countdown markers may A direction sign is erected Deceleration arrow is used to A direction sign is erected at junction ahead is usually also be used to indicate the immediately before the indicate the start of a the junction to provide given at least 500m in distance in hundreds of junction to give information deceleration lane which gives information about the advance to give you time to metres to the start of the about the route and junction you time and space to begin junction. The slip road leads move to the left most lane. deceleration lane. ahead. reducing your speed. you to a junction with an ordinary road or to another dual carriageway. Some slip roads may have sharp bends which can only be taken safely by further reducing your speed. 82 For All Drivers

Joining a major trunk road (signs in blue)/an expressway (signs in green) On wide busy roads, and particularly on expressways and trunk roads, direction signs may be placed on gantries A slip road leads you into an acceleration lane. Watch the traffic on the trunk road and adjust above the road. On expressways, the direction signs are your speed so that you can join the nearest lane in a suitable gap. After joining the lane, stay green in colour. in the lane long enough to become accustomed to the speed of the traffic before trying to change lanes as necessary.

acceleration lane Arrows below the destinations mean ‘Select your destination and get in lane’. Do so in good time. The sign above generally means there is a lane-drop for the exit and the number of lanes on the main road will be reduced from four to three.

Where there is no loss of lane beyond the junction, the panel containing the sloping upward arrow in the sign above indicates the exit destinations, while the panel containing (erected on main road) (erected on main road) the downward facing arrows gives destinations for the main road. Keep left if you are leaving the main road. These are informatory merging signs used before the merge at junctions on expressways. (erected on slip road) (erected on slip road)

83 For All Drivers ʻZebraʼ Crossings

ʻGive wayʼ line

ʻGive wayʼ line

When approaching a ‘Zebra’ You must not stop on a Never park, carry out loading/ crossing, look out for ‘Zebra’ crossing. You must unloading, or overtake just pedestrians waiting to cross also not stop in the controlled before a ‘Zebra’ crossing. (particularly children, the area marked with zigzag lines Look out for pedestrians elderly and the disabled). Be except when giving way to crossing the road across ready to slow down or stop pedestrians on the crossing ʻZebraʼ crossings are well the zigzag lines. marked with black and white behind the ‘Give way’ line to or waiting to turn left or right. let them cross. In traffic queues, leave stripes and zigzag lines on Within the controlled area ‘Zebra’ crossing clear and either side. These road You must give way to anyone marked with zigzag lines, you stop behind the ‘Give way’ markings not only control who has stepped onto a must not pass ahead the line. traffic by giving orders, but ‘Zebra’ crossing. Signal to moving vehicle nearest the Warning sign – pedestrian also warn you as a driver that other drivers that you intend crossing, or the leading If there is an island in the crossing ahead there may be pedestrians to slow down or stop. Do not vehicle which has stopped to middle of a crossing, the crossing or waiting to cross signal pedestrians to cross; give way to pedestrians on parts of the crossing on its the road. A yellow beacon, another vehicle may be the crossing. either side are separate usually flashing, marks the approaching. crossings. location of the crossing.

84 For All Drivers ʻGreen Manʼ Crossings

‘Green man’ crossings are At ‘Green man’ crossings, marked by two rows of studs the signals have the same and have traffic lights for meaning as traffic lights at vehicles and pedestrian lights a junction. for pedestrians. When the red light shows, The crossings are marked you must stop or wait behind with yellow stripes and you the ‘Stop’ line. must not stop on the When the green light shows, crossing. you may go forward if there ‘Green man’ crossings can are no pedestrians on the Warning sign – traffic lights or be found either independently crossing and there is room for ‘Green man’ crossing ahead on a length of road or as part you to do so – do not block of a traffic light junction. the crossing. Give way to any pedestrians If traffic lights are not working, on the crossings. The elderly, slow down or even stop as the disabled and children may necessary to give way to need more time to cross. Do pedestrians, and proceed not harass pedestrians, for through the junction with example by revving up your extreme caution. engine or creeping forward. 85 For All Drivers Bright Sunlight, Driving at Night Bright sunlight Driving at night You must dip your headlamps If dazzled by approaching where there are street lights or traffic, slow down or even When driving at night, you in the face of approaching stop. must use headlamps even if traffic. there are street lights. This will Dip your headlamps when help other road users to see Divert your eyes, when you passing other vehicles or road you more easily. meet high beams head on. users and also when driving Don’t stare into them. Look to close behind another vehicle It is very difficult to see the left edge of the road. Do so as not to dazzle the driver. pedestrians at night, not flick your high beams to especially when the road Even if your headlamps are warn the other drivers. Never, surface is wet and shiny dipped, do not drive so close however, should you get even because of reflections and behind another vehicle as to by leaving your own high glare. At night, drivers and dazzle the driver. beams on. This only increases pedestrians become tired the chance of an accident. and find it more difficult to concentrate, judge speeds and distances, and see properly. In bright conditions, glare and Entering or leaving a tunnel dazzle can cause discomfort particularly under bright Driving at night or in the half- to some drivers. Dazzle is a conditions outside needs light of dusk and dawn can serious hazard. You may not special care. If you are be more difficult than driving be able to see for a second or wearing sunglasses when during the day. Stopping two and you will have to rely entering a tunnel, you may be distances increase with speed on what you have memorised unable to see at first. but the range of your the scene ahead. headlamps does not. On leaving a tunnel, drive with Therefore reduce speed for You may find it difficult to read care, particularly if you are night driving so that the traffic sign if the sky behind unfamiliar with the road layout overall stopping distance is the sign is bright. The shape or approaching a toll plaza. well within the range of your of the sign will help you. headlamps. You must switch on your When you are following on dipped headlamps – headlamps in poor visibility or the illustration on the left shows the right way, provided that during the hours of darkness your speed is low enough. The illustration on the right including dusk and dawn. shows the wrong way as you are too close to the vehicle in front, the driver is dazzled by your headlamps through the rear window. 86 For All Drivers Rain, Fog, Wind Rain and wet roads Rain can be so heavy that it See and be seen – you should forms a thin sheet of water on use your headlamps or fog When roads are wet, braking the roadway. Even good tyres lamps, and rear lamps. In fog, distances increase because cannot grip through this and use fog lamps if fitted and tyre grip is reduced. Give you may have no control at all your windscreen wipers as yourself much more room for over steering or braking. necessary. Avoid using fog slowing down and stopping. lamps in other circumstances. Your allowance for braking Slow down through pools of distance should be at least water. Water thrown up can Check and clean doubled. block your view, affect your windscreens, lamps, rear brakes and stop your engine. mirrors and windows Water on the roadway makes It may also affect the view of whenever necessary. a slippery film, especially after other drivers or drench a spell of dry weather. If you have to drive in fog or pedestrians. mist, adjust your speed and Be on the look-out for Beware of likely serious road allow more time for your trip. difference in road surfaces flooding when red/black which may reduce the grip rainstorm warning signal is of your tyres still more. The Wind issued and take extreme care smoother your tyres, the Keeping control of your on the roads. If the road is greater the increase in braking vehicle in strong winds, flooded, try to stop in a safe distance on a wet road. particularly near high-sided place and find out how deep vehicles, demands quick and Pedestrians run the risk of the water is. If it is not too positive reactions. slipping and falling when deep and you decide to drive crossing the road. through, drive as slowly as Look out for fallen trees and you can but keep the engine other obstructions on the See and be seen – You must speed up to avoid stalling. As roadway. use headlamps during the soon as you have driven day whenever visibility is Strong winds can blow through a stretch of flooded poor because of heavy rain, pedestrians and cyclists off road, try your brakes but be Fog and mist Watch your speed and smoke, mist or fog or any remember you may be going course, so give them plenty cautious to do so when there Slow down and keep a safe similar condition. much faster than you think. of room. are vehicles behind. distance. You should always Do not speed up to escape Not only is your visibility cut be able to stop within the If there is a tropical cyclone a vehicle which is too close down when it rains, it is also distance of your view ahead. near Hong Kong, pay more difficult for pedestrians behind you. attention to its latest news Do not concentrate on to see you if their views are If you are driving a heavy and forecast track to plan someone else’s rear lamps; hampered by umbrellas or vehicle, it may take you your trip. it gives you a false sense of headwear. longer to stop than the security. vehicle ahead. 87 For All Drivers Road Works Sets of warning signs and The temporary traffic signs near road works are illustrated Temporary traffic control sometimes flashing lights will and warning lights are often on pages 119 and 120.) Temporary traffic lights may give you warning of works on put on stands and may be be set up to provide traffic or near the road ahead. In easily knocked down or control in/near a road works many cases, normal speeds displaced. area. The lights may be used are impossible when travelling Look out for pedestrians at a junction, a site access or in the vicinity of road works, forced to step onto the where the roadway is so you should slow down roadway because a pavement narrowed to a single track for when seeing the first or footpath may be closed or Traffic cones and cylinders are two-way traffic. indication of road works. Be blocked by road works. used to mark temporary traffic Manually operated ʻStop/Goʼ prepared for persons and A ʻTraffic lights aheadʼ sign lanes or diversions. You must signs may be also used for vehicles working on or near may be used to warn you of not drive over them. control of one-lane-two-way the roadway moving temporary traffic lights (see traffic. unexpectedly close to or into sign 22 on page 119). the open traffic lanes. ʻStopʼ and ʻGoʼ signs – if the At temporary traffic lights, a ʻStopʼ sign is showing, you Persons responsible for temporary traffic sign (see must not drive past the sign; carrying out road works would below) may be used instead if the ʻGoʼ sign is showing, follow the ‘Code of Practice of a ʻStopʼ line. You must stop you may go if the way is clear. for the Lighting, Signing and and stay before the sign if the Guarding for Road Works’ red, or red and amber lights published by the Highways are showing (see pages 106 The ʻRoad works aheadʼ sign Department (see ‘Further to 108 for the meaning of should be the first sign you References Materials’) to set traffic light signals). see as you approach road up temporary traffic works or other obstructions arrangements and the Warning of temporary traffic on the roadway. associated warnings. control by ʻStop/Goʼ signs Most road works involve ahead Be prepared for the temporary narrowing of the unexpected, especially at roadway and possibly lane night, even if you are familiar closure or closure of the road with the route or with the itself. Warning signs and temporary traffic informatory signs will help arrangements. guide you through the road The temporary traffic works area or divert you arrangements may change around an obstruction. The ʻRoad works aheadʼ sign from time to time as the works (Many of the temporary traffic with an ʻEndʼ plate marks the progress. signs that may be seen at or end of the road works. 88 For All Drivers Road Works on Dual Carriageways/in Tunnels On dual carriageways, when the road works are extensive, some traffic lanes may be switched to the other carriageway.

Temporary signs give you Traffic signs warn you of the On the carriageway with Traffic signs warn you of the On returning to the normal information on the traffic change to the other two-way traffic, water-filled change back to the original carriageway, stay in your lane lanes ahead and time to carriageway for one or more barriers, traffic cylinders or carriageway. until well past the road works move to the correct traffic lanes of traffic. Stay in your traffic cones are used to unless traffic signs or road lane if necessary. lane and follow the traffic separate traffic flows. Traffic markings indicate otherwise. signs and traffic cones placed lanes may be narrower than In general, drivers of large on or by the road to guide usual and there is little room vehicles should use the left you. Take particular care when for error so take extra care most lane. driving through the gap in the and keep your speed down. central reservation if your lane switches to the other carriageway.

One-tube-two-way operation in tunnels When implementing one-tube-two-way operation, the speed limit in tunnel tube will be lowered to 50km/h in general. You must strictly follow the traffic signals and signs of the temporary traffic One-tube-two-way operation is generally implemented in the arrangement, particularly the diversions at both ends of the tube. You must obey all signals and small hours of morning for regular tunnel maintenance or directions given by the tunnel officers and should pay attention to the advisory message cleansing works. displayed on variable message signs or broadcasted through radio broadcasting system. 89 For All Drivers Where Not to Stop Where you must not stop The stopping ban does not ʻNo stoppingʼ zones • Where there is a single solid The ʻNo stoppingʼ signs apply in an emergency yellow line and ʻNo may apply to certain class You must not stop, not even (for example, to avoid an stoppingʼ signs – do not of vehicle only, such as to pick up or set down accident), when your vehicle stop during the time period public light buses, goods passengers or to load or breaks down or stops to cope shown. Sometimes the vehicles or buses (see traffic unload goods in the following with traffic conditions, or stopping ban is indicated signs below). places: when signalled to stop by a by traffic signs only, and • On an expressway. police officer, traffic warden, there may be no yellow authorised personnel in tunnel lines marked on the road. • In a ‘No stopping’ zone area or control area, a traffic during the restriction time • Where there are double sign or traffic light. (see on this page). yellow lines and/or ‘No stopping’ signs – do not • On a ʻZebraʼ or ʻGreen Regulatory sign – no stopping stop at any time. manʼ crossing. On trunk roads and other • In a zebra controlled area major roads, a ʻNo stoppingʼ marked with zigzag lines ban may be indicated by unless you are giving traffic signs only. The ʻNo precedence to pedestrians stoppingʼ ban will be marked or are waiting to make a left at the beginning and end by or right-turn. signs with yellow background; • At a bus stop, public light • Traffic signs mark the signs with white background bus stand or taxi stand beginning and end of ʻNo (repeaters) at intervals along (except permitted users). stoppingʼ zones. the roads remind drivers of the ban in force. • On parts of a roadway on • The times during which the which you are normally not stopping ban applies are On expressways, neither allowed to enter, for shown on the signs. signs nor yellow line markings example bus lanes, hard are used to indicate the • Regulatory signs and road shoulders and cycleways. no-stopping restrictions. markings may be used Once you enter an • In a tunnel area or control within a zone to remind you expressway, you must not area. of the stopping ban or to stop under normal traffic indicate a change in the • On a yellow box marking conditions. time period. or yellow striped ʻgreen manʼ crossing.

90 For All Drivers

Road markings Regulatory signs and repeaters Coloured sign post Certificate for picking up or setting down of No stopping at any time Red, yellow and green colour passengers with disabilities in restricted zones sign posts are used to represent the three most common standard no-stopping restriction time periods for all motor vehicles - the colour of the sign post is for reference only. The no-stopping restriction time Start sign Repeater period should refer to the traffic sign. No stopping at time period shown on the signs Colour Time period Red 7am – midnight Yellow 7am – 7pm Green 8am – 10am and The police will exercise record of the journey. 5pm – 7pm discretion to allow drivers of The following persons with Grey for all other time taxis, private cars, private light disabilities are eligible to periods buses and private buses to use the Certificate: pick up or set down • persons with mobility passengers with disabilities in You should not stop problem such as restricted zones (except wheelchair users or users • Near a ʻGreen manʼ expressways and 24-hour crossing. of walking aids; or no stopping restricted zones), • Near a pedestrian crossing place, for example where provided that no hazard or • visually impaired persons. disruption is caused to other there is an island on the The driver can present the road. road users. certificate to a police officer • Near traffic lights. A person with disability to prove that he/she has • Near a school crossing can give to the driver a picked up or set down a patrol. “Certificate for Picking Up or passenger with disabilities • On a major dual carriageway. Setting Down of Passengers in the restricted zone in case • Near or at a junction. with Disabilities in Restricted he/she is interrogated by • Near or on a roundabout. Zones” (issued by The the officer. • Where you may cause Hong Kong Council of Social Service) completed with Start sign Repeater danger to yourself, your passengers or other road users. 91 For All Drivers Where Not to Park Other than at no-stopping Where you must not park On a road without street lighting or a private road: places as described on pages You must not park your 90 and 91, you may stop to vehicle: pick up or set down • Where your vehicle will passengers, or load or unload cause obstruction or goods – if you can do so danger to other road users. without causing obstruction Temporary ‘No parking’ sign – or danger. • On a road with street arrows show the direction or lighting – that is a road You should not stop for directions to which the ban where the street lights are longer than necessary to let applies spaced not more than 200 passengers get on or off. You You must not park where metres apart – other than in should only let your vehicle there are temporary a marked parking place. stand for a longer time if ‘No parking’ signs or in a loading or unloading of goods • On, or partly on, a closed or suspended parking is taking place. pavement, footpath, central space. reservation, verge, hard Such loading or unloading shoulder or traffic island. activities should be carried out as quickly as possible. You must not park on the • Where your vehicle would Your vehicle should not be left side of the roadway or on the block a vehicular access to unattended or left standing pavement or verge along that properties or car parks. when the loading or unloading side of the road where there • Where your vehicle will of goods has been is ‘No parking’ sign at any obstruct access to a fire completed. time, or at the time period hydrant from the roadway. shown on the ‘Time plate’ under the ‘No parking’ sign. A single broken yellow line may be added on the side of the roadway to indicate the parking restriction. You must not park at any time on the side of the roadway or on the pavement or verge along that side of the road where there is a single broken yellow line near the edge of the road. 92 For All Drivers

If your vehicle breaks down, Where you should not let Do not let your vehicle stand your vehicle stand you must not repair, maintain • At or near a school • Near or on a bend. • In a passing place. or carry out any works on a You should not let your vehicle entrances/exits, not even • Near or on the brow of • Where it would prevent vehicle on a road, except for stand, wait, or load or unload to pick up or set down a hill. properly parked vehicles works that are necessary to goods where school children. from moving out. enable the vehicle to be • Opposite a traffic island. • it would cause danger or • Near a school crossing removed without undue delay. • In hospital entrances/exits. You must not leave a broken inconvenience to other road patrol. • Alongside another down vehicle on a road users, or hold up traffic; stationary vehicle. • In police, fire and • Where it would hide a unattended except while • it would cause difficulties ambulance station traffic sign or road • If this would narrow the getting help. entrances/exits. for others to see clearly marking. road not enough for such as in vicinity of passage of two vehicles • On a major dual • At or near any bus stop, junctions or crossings; in opposite direction. carriageway. public light bus stand/ • it would reduce the width stop, or taxi stand. • Near road works. • On a slip road. of that part of the road generally used by traffic; • Near a ‘Green man’ • On a narrow or single track • On a hard shoulder, crossing or pedestrian road. marginal strip or • emergency vehicles would crossing place. emergency lay-by • On a flyover or in an stop, or go in or out of (except in an emergency). premises; and • On a two-way road with underpass. ‘Double white’ lines. • In a bus bay. • it would cause danger or • On main road with faster inconvenience to • At or near at a junction. traffic. • In a police lay-by. pedestrians, particularly where pedestrians are likely to cross the road such as at a pedestrian crossing, at or near a junction or near a traffic island.

93 For All Drivers Where to Park You must not park in a space Parking signs designated for vehicles of a Vehicles other Goods vehicles different type from your than medium/ only vehicle. For example, you heavy goods must not park a private car in vehicles, buses, a parking space for goods coaches, motor vehicles or reserved for cycles and specified users, such as Direction sign showing the pedal cycles ambulances. direction to a car park or parking place You must not park over the Buses Motor Pedal lines marking out the parking and cycles cycles You should only park your space. You must not park in coaches only only vehicle where it will not cause a parking place for more than only any danger nor inconvenience 24 hours. to other road users. Walk a short distance rather than A parking space may be During the period of operation causing a danger. marked with either white of a parking meter, you must road markings or road pay the appropriate charge Park in a parking place or a studs. as shown on the meter. car park if you can. You must do this as soon as On a road with street lighting A parking sign nearby will possible after parking your – that is a road where the give information on what vehicle. street lights are spaced not class/type of vehicle the A ‘Time plate’ with the Time plates used with parking signs showing the operating more than 200 metres apart – parking place is designated ‘Parking’ sign will tell you the time of the meters and the maximum charging period. you may park only in a for, and the allowed parking maximum charging period designated parking place. period. Some parking spaces and the operating time of the may be designated for meters. Parking places different classes/types of You must not park on the vehicles at different times yellow hatched road markings (such as for private cars in between parking spaces of a daytime and for commercial parking place (see page 127). vehicles at night).

Specified classes of vehicles Vehicles with disabled only such as refuse collection person’s parking permit only vehicles 94 For All Drivers Parking If you have to park on the Parking on hills Leaving a gap – Moving in or road, stop as close as out of a parking space is more possible to the edge. Before difficult on a slope than on the leaving your vehicle, you must flat and tends to take more switch off the engine and room. So leave a bigger gap – engage the vehicle in first / It will help you and others. reverse gear (manual) or park mode (automatic). Also, make sure the parking brake is on firmly. Always lock your vehicle and switch off all the lights. Before opening any door of a vehicle, make sure that there is no one on the road, pavement or footpath close enough to be hit by the door, or likely to walk into it. Be particularly careful about cyclists and motorcyclists. Uphill – Uphill / downhill – Downhill – Remind your passengers with kerb no kerb with kerb especially children to take note of the above and arrange Parking uphill – Stop as close Parking uphill or downhill with Parking downhill – Stop as them to get out from the side as you can to the nearside no kerb – Turn the steering close as you can to the of the pavement or kerb kerb and leave your steering wheel to the left. Leave the nearside kerb and turn the whenever possible. wheel turned to the right. vehicle in first (uphill) or steering wheel to the left, Never park on the road at Then, in case the vehicle rolls reverse (downhill) gear, or park so that any forward night if it can be avoided, backwards, it will be checked mode (automatic), and apply movement of the vehicle unless there are designated by the front wheel coming the parking brake firmly. will be checked by the kerb. parking places. It is particularly against the kerb. Leave the Then, at least, the vehicle will Leave the vehicle in reverse dangerous to park on unlit vehicle in first gear or park not run back down the road, gear or park mode (automatic) roads or roads in fog or mist. mode (automatic), and apply in case it rolls. and apply the parking brake Lights should always be left the parking brake firmly. firmly. on in fog or mist conditions.

95 Chapter 6 For Professional Drivers For Professional Drivers Commercial Vehicles Most of the rules and advice Further details on the Goods vehicles You must not smoke in or given to drivers in Chapter 5 requirements and near a vehicle carrying apply to drivers of commercial application for the different inflammable or explosive vehicles. types of driving licences for goods. and driving tests of To drive a commercial vehicle, Passengers, including commercial vehicles may be you must have a valid driving members of any work crew, obtained from any Licensing licence for the appropriate must be carried only on Office of the Transport vehicle class. To apply for a properly provided and Department (see ‘Further driving licence of relevant secured seats. Passengers Reference Materials’). commercial vehicle class, must not sit on loads or in the you must be aged at least 21, In general, the heavier the load-carrying part of the have held a full driving licence vehicle, the longer the vehicle. for a private car or light goods braking distance. For a Do not allow passengers to vehicle for at least 3 years (or heavy vehicle, the braking get on or off your vehicle at least 2 years if the full distance may be twice of when it is in motion. driving licence was issued the distance needed by a after the completion of car. So keep a longer You should use a RVD, if probationary driving period) distance between your The maximum speed limit The above restriction also fitted, to help you monitor the immediately preceding the vehicle and the one in front for medium and heavy goods applies to light goods vehicles area behind the vehicle while application, and have not (see pages 54 and 55). vehicles is 70km/h. You must driven by holders of reversing. In low light been convicted of dangerous not drive faster than the probationary driving licence. conditions, you should switch driving causing death (or speed limit for the road or on the auxiliary illumination grievous bodily harm), your vehicle, whichever is Dust, mud, oil and other when using RVD. Any dirt or drink, or drug driving within the lower. debris blown off or dropped rain drops on the camera lens 5 years immediately preceding from a vehicle can be an may affect the image quality. Under the Road Traffic the application. inconvenience or a danger to If necessary, you may arrange (Expressway) Regulations, other road users. You must someone to check the traffic With effect from 1 October medium and heavy goods properly secure a load - cover condition behind the vehicle. 2020, the requirement on the vehicles are prohibited from it if necessary. Always keep number of years of holding a using the right most lane of an your vehicle clean, for As a safety practice, you may valid private car or light goods expressway where there are example by sweeping the also turn on the hazard vehicle full driving licence three or more lanes available, trailer floor or washing mud off warning lights when parking would be changed to at least unless you are heading for a the tyres before leaving a or reversing. 1 year (or having obtained the right side exit. construction site. full driving licence after the completion of probationary driving period). 96 For Professional Drivers

Buses and public light buses to stand, are able to grasp a Bus lanes secure handrail or hand-hold. Passengers may change seats or move towards the exit door while the vehicle is moving. Therefore, driving actions should be carried out smoothly and gradually. You must observe the conditions near the door(s) carefully before opening or closing the door(s) to avoid trapping passengers. Do not open the door, or allow passengers to get on or off your vehicle, while it is still in motion. The maximum speed limits for There are additional rules for in writing and buses are buses and public light buses Bus lanes are for buses use crossing the road. Other the driving and operation of prohibited from using the right are 70 km/h and 80 km/h only. The ʻFranchised bus drivers may also drive into a buses, coaches and public most lane of an expressway respectively. You must not laneʼ signs indicate that buses bus lane to gain access to light buses. These rules are where there are three or more drive faster than 70km/h other than franchised buses premises or when taking contained in the Road Traffic lanes available, unless you are (buses) or 80km/h (public light are not allowed to use such evasive action. If the traffic in (Public Service Vehicles) heading for a right side exit. buses), or the speed limit for bus lane (see sign 63 on page the normal lanes is moving Regulations and in the the road on which you are 113). slowly or is stationary, look out Any driving action you take, conditions for the passenger travelling, whichever is the for pedestrians or motor whether it be stopping, When using a bus lane during service licence for your lower. cycles emerging from gaps changing speed or direction, its period of operation, look respective vehicle. Ask your between vehicles. must be carried out in a out for other road users. employer about the rules that manner that does not put Taxis Cyclists are permitted to use a (See pages 65 and 66 for apply to you if you are your passengers and other There are additional rules for bus lane - give them plenty of more information on bus employed to drive a public vehicles at risk. You must the driving and operation of room when overtaking and be lanes.) service vehicle. drive with consideration for taxis. Information about these prepared for their sudden Under the Road Traffic your passengers, as well as rules can be obtained from sideways movements. (Expressway) Regulations, other road users. any Licensing Office of the Pedestrians may step public light buses are Transport Department (see unexpectedly into the bus After picking up passengers, prohibited from entering an ‘Further Reference Materials’). lane or wait at the edge of the do not move off until they are expressway unless authorised bus lane marking when properly seated or, if allowed 97 For Professional Drivers Loads, Long Vehicles, Towing Carrying loads Overloading has a detrimental • extends sideways with an Long Vehicles Additional reference effect on the brakes, suspension overall width (including the information for loading of You must properly secure When driving a long vehicle, and steering, making the load and the vehicle) more vehicles is available in the loads, and cover them if you may not be able to keep vehicle difficult to control. An than 2.5 metres; ʻCode of Practice for the necessary. within the normal traffic lane overloaded vehicle will respond Loading of Vehiclesʼ (see • with the vehicle is higher or follow the path taken by You must not drive an slowly and irregularly to the ‘Further Reference Materials’). than the overall height of smaller vehicles, particularly if overloaded vehicle (its driverʼs controlling actions, the vehicle specified in the the lane is narrow and your permitted gross vehicle weight thus causing danger to other Road Traffic (Construction path is tightly curved. When or maximum permitted axle road users. weight is exceeded). and Maintenance of carrying out unusual (For rules and advice on Vehicles) Regulations (e.g. manoeuvres, look out for The permitted gross vehicle where to stop on the road to light goods vehicle: 3.5m, other road users, in particular weight and maximum load and unload goods, see medium/heavy goods pedestrians, motorcyclists or permitted axle weight of a pages 92 and 93.) vehicle: 4.6m); or cyclists who may drive or step goods vehicle are shown on into the swept path of your Towing the vehicle licence displayed • is at a height that may Overhanging loads vehicle or into one of your on the windscreen or marked cause damage to any ʻON TOWʼ sign - the letters blind spots. Turning left or on both sides of the vehicle. When driving a vehicle with an object or wires erected and characters must be at right has to be done with overhanging load, you must above the road. least 150mm high in white on Gross vehicle or axle weight great care. On leaving a ensure that there is a red flag a dark surface. includes the weight of the junction, stay in lane until you not less than 1 square metre vehicle and any passengers Fallen or spilled loads are well past the junction. You must not tow another at the rear extremity of the and load etc. If a load or an object falls or vehicle with a tow rope or load in daytime with good Before driving an articulated spills from your vehicle, stop chain if the gap between the You must not carry or support visibility. During the hours of vehicle, check that all the twist your vehicle in a safe place two vehicles is greater than 4.5 any load on the tailgate. darkness or in poor visibility, locks are fully engaged and and try to remove the fallen metres. You must make sure you must install a white light locked in position with the You must not allow any load load or deal with the spillage the tow rope or chain is clearly showing ahead at each side container and the trailer to touch the roadway. if it is safe and practicable to visible to other road users. of the front of the load and a properly connected to the do so. If you are unable to You must make sure that your red light showing to the rear of tractor including braking and The vehicle being towed must quickly and safely remove the vehicle or trailer is loaded so the load. electrical connections, in be under the control of a as not to cause danger to object, try to warn other road addition to the usual safety driver holding a valid driving you, your passengers or other You must not load or drive users and fetch help. checks. licence for the class of the road users; or to cause a vehicle so that the load On major trunk roads vehicle who is able to brake damage to the road or Additional rules for drivers of • extends beyond the front and expressways, in tunnel and steer the vehicle properly. property. Jib, crane or similar articulated vehicles can be of the vehicle by more than areas and in control areas, A proper ʻON TOWʼ sign must attachments equipped on obtained from any Licensing 1.5 metres; use mobile phone to inform be fitted to the rear of the vehicles must be lowered and Office of the Transport the police or control centre. vehicle being towed. returned to its stowed position • extends beyond the rear of Department (see ‘Further Never try to retrieve a fallen after use as recommended by the vehicle by more than Reference Materials’). Other rules apply when using load by yourself. 98 the manufacturers. 1.4 metres; tow bars or towing vehicles capable of lifting vehicles. For Professional Drivers Restrictions Drivers of commercial vehicles Restricted headroom may be subject to bans that do not apply to other vehicles. These bans may apply to particular vehicle classes or to larger vehicles. Regulatory Width limit – no Height limit – no Axle weight limit – no Weight limit – no traffic signs mark the vehicles over vehicles over vehicles with an axle vehicles with a gross beginning of the ban. If the width shown height shown weight over that vehicle weight over ban applies to your vehicle (including load) (including load) shown (including load) that shown (including (including any load), you must load) not drive past the sign or drive on the road to which it A bridge or other structure applies. over a road may restrict the Supplementary plates may actual headroom available. give additional information The restriction may be or exemptions to the ban. temporary due to bridge or other construction works. A Commercial vehicles may Length limit – no vehicles, or New signing Weight limit – No warning sign will indicate the also be subject to stopping combination of vehicles, over arrangement to goods vehicles with a maximum headroom on that and parking restrictions length shown (including load) replace the sign at gross vehicle weight part of the road. (see pages 90 to 93). (applying to all vehicle classes) the left over that shown Medium and heavy goods vehicles, buses, recovery vehicles, and any motor vehicles towing a trailer or another vehicle are prohibited from using the right most lane No public light No buses or No goods vehicles No vehicles carrying of an expressway where there buses coaches dangerous goods of Advanced warning of are three or more lanes open specified categories restricted headroom may be for use, unless you are given by a ʻRestricted heading for a right side exit. ʻExcept for accessʼ plate headroom aheadʼ warning The above restriction also allows a vehicle to enter the sign with a supplementary applies to light goods vehicles road so as to gain access to plate showing the distance to driven by holders of premises or land adjacent to ʻTime plateʼ indicates the the restriction. Alternatively, probationary driving licence. the road, to which the ban time period during which the the warning sign may be applies, where there is no ban applies. alternative route. shown on an advance direction sign. 99 Chapter 7 For Riders of Motor Cycles and Motor Tricycles For Riders of Motor Cycles and Motor Tricycles Before You Ride Most of the rules and advice Eye protection Wear light-coloured, reflective Learner riders Probationary driving given to drivers in Chapter 5 or fluorescent clothing. If you Eye protection is the If you are a new rider, enroll in licence apply to riders of motor cycles ride a motor cycle or motor important function of visors a designated driving school to Upon passing the driving test and motor tricycles. tricycle as part of your job, and goggles. You are strongly attend a compulsory training for motor cycle or motor ask your employer to provide advised to use a visor or course. Having acquired the tricycle, you are eligible to you with suitable high visibility Safety helmets goggles at all times when basic knowledge and skills to apply for a probationary clothing. When you ride a motor cycle, riding. Avoid poor quality ride and manoeuvre in an off- driving licence which is you and your passenger must plastic visors or goggles that Riding in hot weather in road environment and passed subject to additional driving wear and securely fasten a can be scratched easily and clothing such as shorts or the written test as well as the restrictions. You can then safety helmet of approved make sure the lenses are short-sleeved shirts is not competence test, you can apply for a full driving licence type. Riders and passengers shatterproof. advisable, as your skin will then apply for a learnerʼs after satisfactory completion of motor tricycles should also have no protection in an driving licence. The licence of the probationary driving If riding in bright light is wear the safety helmets. accident if you fall and slide enables you to practise on period of at least 12 months. uncomfortable, use a tinted on the road surface. roads, with or without a A safety helmet will not visor or goggles, or wear (For rules, advice and licensed driving instructor, protect you in an accident good quality sunglasses if Gloves should always be information about the but you are not allowed to unless it fits properly. When they fit comfortably under worn when riding, to protect probationary driving licence carry any passenger. When buying a helmet, you should your helmet. But do not use your hands in an accident as scheme, see page 48) practising on roads, you must aim for the closest fit that tinted helmet visors or well as for warmth. In hot display approved ʻLʼ plates at causes no discomfort, even googles at night or in weather, thin unlined gloves the front and rear of your for long periods. Replace a conditions of poor visibility. are the most comfortable and motor cycle or motor tricycle. helmet that shows signs of provide the best degree of Look after your goggles and damage or after a hard knock control. You must not ride at certain visors with care. They can be even though there is no sign times of the day. You must not ruined by scratches. Keep Wear strong shoes or boots. of damage on the surface. enter or ride on a road to them clean particularly when which the ʻNo learner driversʼ Look after your helmet. It can riding at night. sign applies. Information be weakened by accidental about these rules can be knocks when not in use. Clothing obtained from any Licensing It is recommended that you The clothing you wear when Office of the Transport replace a helmet after four riding should Department (see ʻFurther ‘P’ plate for probationary rider yearsʼ use, as it becomes Reference Materialsʼ). • keep you dry; of motor cycle or motor weathered and aged in that tricycle time, and cannot guarantee • keep you warm in cold full protection in an accident. weather; • be conspicuous; and • protect you in an accident. 100 For Riders of Motor Cycles and Motor Tricycles Riding Along You and your passenger are If your motor cycle or motor or motor tricycle. Being seen The rider of motor cycle or more vulnerable than other tricycle has a cylinder capacity If the road is flooded, beware motor tricycle must turn on vehicle drivers and of less than 125cc, or rated of potholes or mud hidden all front lamps, headlamps passengers, as you do not power less than 3kW if it is below the surface of the and rear lamps at all times have the protection given to solely propelled by an electric water. (including daytime) while them by their vehicles and motor, you must not ride it on riding. You must dip your seat belts – which you have an expressway. headlamps where there are to make up by the use of your Motor cycles You must not wear earphones street lights or in the face of skills. passing/overtaking of any audio devices when approaching traffic. In slow moving or stopped The best way to remain riding a motor cycle on the traffic, you may only ride It is difficult for other road upright and in complete road. slowly through gaps that can users to see motor cycles control of your machine is to be driven through without because when seen end-on, avoid abrupt changes – fierce Road surfaces danger. Look out very closely they are ʻthinʼ (a quarter the braking, hard acceleration, The condition of the road for pedestrians and for size of a car) and often dark bad gear changing, sudden surface is very important to vehicles that may move into in colour. You need to ensure changes of course – and this riders of motor cycle or motor your path. If in doubt, stay in that you can be seen by means thinking ahead so that tricycle. You depend upon the the traffic lane in the normal other road users, including each change is carried out grip of your tyres on the road position. On two-way roads pedestrians. smoothly and gradually. You surface for your stability and with ʻDouble whiteʼ lines, cannot suddenly change Switching on your headlamps safety. Look out for danger when you wish to pass direction at any but the lowest will help other road users, from poor surfaces and between the vehicle in front speed. including pedestrians, to see potholes even in dry and the ʻDouble whiteʼ lines, you coming; if necessary, Using rear-view mirrors in conditions. Surfaces become only do so if it is safe. You flash your main beam. Your good time will help you slippery not only when they must ensure that the driver in rear light will indicate your maintain awareness of traffic are wet, but also when they front also knows you are presence to drivers behind. situation behind. No matter are covered with loose gravel coming through and will not Fluorescent or reflective how good your mirrors are, or sand, mud or oil. When push you over the ʻDouble clothing – or just a reflective look around and over your wet, objects set in the whiteʼ lines and into the belt – will help, day and night. shoulder to check the blind roadway such as metal road oncoming traffic. spot before moving off, studs or manhole covers, as Good positioning – riding In other situations, do not changing direction/lane or well as road markings, can where other drivers and overtake another vehicle by overtaking. become slippery and may pedestrians will be looking using the same traffic lane as cause some types of front tyre and expect to see you – is You must not ride a motor that used by the vehicle. You to deviate uncomfortably off very important. cycle or motor tricycle on a should overtake in the normal course. Good and well footway, pedestrian only road, way using the traffic lane on maintained tyres are essential footpath, or public open the right (for rules and advice for safe riding of a motor cycle space. for overtaking, see page 56). 101 For Riders of Motor Cycles and Motor Tricycles Positioning If you position yourself well In approaching junctions with on the road, not only is it traffic lights, pedestrian easier to avoid hazards and crossings or other places adjust your speed in time for where you need to stop or changing conditions but it will wait before proceeding, take also ensure you can get the up your position in the centre best possible view of the road of the appropriate lane well in ahead. advance. This helps other drivers notice you and means You need not follow the basic that they are less likely to rule for drivers, ʻKeep to the force you out of the lane than leftʼ, too closely – it is more if you are riding close to the important that you have the edge of the lane on the left or best possible view of the road right. This position is also ahead that safety permits. helpful in slow moving traffic If you ride near the kerb, look making it easier for you to be out for pedestrians stepping prepared for pedestrians onto the road or emerging emerging from gap between from behind parked vehicles. stopped or slow moving Also look out for people vehicles in adjacent lanes. opening vehicle doors into your path. You are riding Riding in these positions where they at least expect to as opposed to keeping to see a vehicle and they may the left or riding near the not see you. Other drivers kerb also helps other may also turn left across your On one-way roads or dual On normal two-way roads, When in slow moving traffic drivers to see you - you will path. carriageways, use the correct ride near the centre of the or when waiting to go ahead, be in the centre of the view Under normal traffic traffic lane as for other drivers. road – but always be careful ride or stop near the centre of of a driver in the same lane conditions, ride on the right- But take up a similar position to check traffic behind and be the lane. and will also be where other hand side of the traffic lane, in the traffic lane – that is just sure that those coming in the drivers and pedestrians will just to the left of the lane line to the left of the lane line so other direction can see you. expect to see you. or centre line. that you can see the road well Move to the left to allow ahead. overtaking vehicles to pass you. Always keep the recommended safe distance from the vehicle in front - see page 55. 102 For Riders of Motor Cycles and Motor Tricycles Signals, Passengers, and Carrying Loads If you do not have direction Signals to other road users Passengers For pillion passengers indicators fitted to your You must not carry more than machine, arrange to have a You must wear an approved A motor cycle (or some types one passenger unless there is set fitted, if at all possible. safety helmet as a motor of motor tricycle) must be a sidecar on the motor cycle. cycle passenger. It must be angled over to take bends An arm signal in good visibility You must ensure that your securely worn. Do not wear a and corners. It is not steered is more likely to be noticed passenger sits astride the helmet that is uncomfortable by the front wheel alone. by other road users than a motor cycle on a fixed seat or is not a good fit. flashing light but it does Keep your feet on the behind you with feet firmly on involve riding one-handed. A pillion passenger who is footrests at all times, footrests; for motor tricycles, As riding one-handed is inexperienced or nervous and particularly when the motor passengers should do the dangerous, arm signals behaves or moves the wrong cycle or motor tricycle is same if applicable. should not be given for longer way or suddenly is dangerous. stopping or has stopped. than is necessary and at times You must not carry a Avoid all sudden movements. You should always hold the not be given at all. passenger under the age of 8 riderʼs waist or hips, or the Keep your body in line with Use direction indicators if you on the motor cycle unless grab bar, seat strap, if the rider, especially through intend to turn or move in or Use of the horn such passenger is carried on equipped, with both hands. out. If it is safe to do, also give a fixed seat in a sidecar. bends and corners. Do not You must not use your horn Avoid unnecessarily talking arm signals to emphasise lean to the side to see ahead unless for warning other road If you are carrying a pillion with the rider as this will your intentions to other road which might affect the users of danger. You may passenger, even an distract the rider’s attention, users and to help avoid balance and stability of the have to sound your horn more experienced person, it is thereby causing danger. confusion (see pages 104 and machine. often than drivers of other better to ride with more 105 for more on signals). vehicles as other road users caution than usual and avoid Carrying loads Cancel the direction indicator may not have seen you – the sudden changes in speed signal after the turn or use of the horn at the right or course where possible. You You must be aware that any without loose parts/straps and manoeuvre has been time may help them become will nearly always block the additional load, weight and is symmetrically positioned completed. aware of your presence. But passenger's view of road accessories on a motor cycle along the longitudinal axis of only use it when it is really giving little chance for your or motor tricycle may affect its your vehicle. The carrying Other road users may have necessary and you have taken passenger to anticipate and stability, performance and loads or the storage box difficulty in distinguishing every safety precaution. be prepared for such handling, and you should should not be wider than the between your left and right changes. adjust your driving style and factory fitted handlebars. You direction indicators, speed accordingly. Ensure must not allow any load to particularly if they are close Agree a signal, such as a firm that your vehicle shall not touch the road. Check together. tap on your shoulder, for your exceed the maximum gross regularly to ensure that all passenger to use when vehicle weight of 500kg tyres are properly inflated and asking you to stop. Talking (motor cycle) or 600kg (motor maintained (see the relevant may be difficult or impossible. tricycle). Also ensure that the guidelines in 'Further load is mounted securely Reference materials'). 103 Chapter 8 The Language of the Road The Language of the Road Signals Stop lights are red lights Signals by drivers (include Direction indicator signals riders of motor cycles and which come on at the rear of motor tricycles) and the vehicle when the driver I intend to move out to the cyclists to other road users puts on the brakes. They tell right or turn right. the following road users that You should give signals when the vehicle is slowing down this would help or warn other or stopping. They must not road users. Give only the be confused with the rear correct signals - those lights which are also red. illustrated - and only for the purposes described. Give Horns are used only for them clearly and in good time. warning any person on or Always be sure that your near a road of danger. I intend to move out to the direction indicator signal is Never use them for any left or turn left. cancelled after a manoeuvre. other reason. Arm signals are for use when Headlamp flashing is also a direction indicator signals are warning to other road users. not used; or when necessary Bells are used by pedal to reinforce direction indicator cyclists as a warning. signals and stop lights. They are also for use by pedal cyclists.

You should only give signals Stop light signals to indicate your intentions to other road users. Never use I am slowing down or them as instructions. stopping. Do not drive or ride on the road until you know how to signal properly and what other peopleʼs signals mean.

104 The Language of the Road

Arm signals Signals by police officers I intend to move out to the and other authorised right or turn right. persons Signals given by a police officer, traffic warden, or other authorised person (for example, the authorised personnel at tunnel areas or control areas, or school crossing patrols) take precedence over all traffic I intend to move out to the signs, road markings and left or turn left. traffic light signals. Use your common sense before relying on signals given by any other person. At junctions when all traffic is stopped by police officers or traffic wardens, you must not filter to the left or right until they signal you to do so. I intend to slow down or stop. Two-tone horns and sirens, white, red or blue flashing lights are used by ambulances, fire engines, police and other authorised organisations in emergencies to warn of their presence and signal their right-of-way. Drivers must give way to emergency vehicles signalling their right-of-way.

105 The Language of the Road Traffic Lights Traffic lights control Traffic signs may also be used For some signalised junctions movements of all road users. with traffic lights to qualify the with right-turn pockets (see They tell drivers and meaning of the green light page 75), an indicative right-turn pedestrians when to stop or such as banning a turning green arrow may be added. go. Traffic lights for drivers movement or instructing traffic When the full green light is on and cyclists are illustrated on that it must move in a certain and the right-turn arrow is off, this and the following two direction. pages. Traffic lights for the right-turners can proceed pedestrians are illustrated on into the pocket to wait for a safe page 17. gap in the opposing traffic If movement is allowed only in stream and turn right when it is In the majority of cases, one direction, a green arrow safe to do so. Other traffic as well as the main traffic pointing in that direction may movements are allowed to lights at the ʻStopʼ line, there replace the full green light. proceed. are duplicate traffic lights Signs are often used with known as secondary traffic When the right-turn arrow is on these signals to indicate this lights. They are usually as well, it indicates the opposing permitted movement located on the opposite side traffic is stopped by red traffic direction. of the junction (or crossing), light and you can turn right if but are sometimes placed on safe to do so. the same side of the junction. If the main traffic light fails, A green arrow may light up At some junctions, different for example, a green lamp even though the red light is traffic lanes may have fails, you must obey the still showing. This means you separate traffic lights. You secondary traffic light as if it can go in the direction shown should only obey the traffic were the main traffic light. by the arrow if it is safe to do lights that apply to your lane. Once clear of the ʻStopʼ line so, whatever the other lights you should continue with may be showing. care, without reference to the traffic lights. Intermittent red light When red lights are flashing warning signals (wig-wag) alternately, all approaching vehicles must stop, until both red lights have stopped flashing. These lights are used at places where traffic is only stopped infrequently - for example at fire station exits. 106 The Language of the Road Traffic Lights for Drivers and Cyclists What they mean What to do - if stationary What to do - if approaching The green light means that Go if way is clear. Give way to Cross carefully. Do not you may move across the pedestrians still on crossing. accelerate before the lights. junction or crossing provided Before you enter the junction, that it is safe to do so. check right and left and right again. Give way to pedestrians who are still on crossing.

The amber light follows the Stay behind the ʻStopʼ line. Slow down and stop behind green light. You must stop the ‘Stop’ line in the correct unless you are so close to lane. the junction or crossing that to do so suddenly might cause an accident.

The red light follows the Stay behind the ʻStopʼ line. Slow down and stop behind amber lights. You must stop the ‘Stop’ line in the correct behind the ʻStopʼ line. lane.

The amber light comes on Remain stationary but may Slow down and do not move while the red light is still on. prepare to move off. across the junction or You must remain stationary crossing until lights have but you may get ready to changed to green. move across the junction or crossing when the green light shows, provided that it is safe to do so. 107 The Language of the Road Lane Signals Lane signals in tunnel Lane signals on trunk roads/expressways Lane signals in tunnels areas, control areas and trunk roads/expressways A green downward arrow, a green light or a Lane signals are often used in blank face means you may proceed in the tunnel areas, control areas lane if it is safe to do so. and trunk roads/expressways. In normal conditions, they are switched off or show a green downward arrow or a green light. In the occurrence of incidents, amber lights flash and the signal shows what The flashing amber light warns of danger action must be taken. ahead, for example, a traffic accident, an obstruction or adverse weather conditions. In most tunnels or on trunk Drive with caution and be prepared to stop. roads/expressways, the lane signals are overhead, one applying to each lane. In some places, the signal is on the roadside, central reservation or on the tunnel A green diagonal downward arrow pointing wall alongside the traffic lane to the left (as shown) or right means you or slip road to which it applies. must leave the lane in the direction shown. Illustrated on the right are the Do not change lanes suddenly and do not displays of the overhead lane move over unless it is safe to do so. If you signals. reach the danger or obstruction or a red light before you can safely leave the lane, The lane signals are for safety. stop and wait in that lane until it is safe to Always act on them - danger change lanes. may be present even if you cannot see the reason. A red cross or a red light means you must not proceed beyond the signal in the lane.

108 The Language of the Road Signing System You can see many different traffic signs and road markings on the roads. They give advance information about road conditions ahead. Road markings also give orders, warning or guidance to drivers and cyclists. Learn the meaning of these signs and markings and look Circular signs give orders Triangular signs give warnings Rectangular signs mostly There are a few exceptions to out for them when on the give directions or information the shape and colour rules. road. You will not then be These give prominence to surprised by a bend, a one- certain signs, for example, way road or a junction ahead. the octagonal ʻStopʼ sign and Drivers and cyclists should be the inverted triangular ʻGive well prepared for the road wayʼ sign. condition ahead. Most of the traffic signs and Signs that give warning road markings are illustrated in this chapter.

Signs that give orders Traffic signs that give orders are called ʻRegulatory signsʼ. They include all signs which give notice of requirements, prohibitions or restrictions. They may be either mandatory or prohibitory. These signs give warning of A prohibitory sign means that A mandatory sign means that hazards ahead. Most of them Regulatory signs are usually something must not be done. something must be done. It is are triangular, with the apex at circular in shape and may be It usually has a red border. usually blue in colour. the top. They are sometimes supplemented by plates supplemented by rectangular beneath them augmenting the plates giving additional message given by the sign. information as may be A warning sign with necessary. supplementary plate 109 The Language of the Road

Signs that give information Journey time indication The displayed digits on the Road markings system journey time indicators are shown in three colours for The journey time indication different traffic conditions: system provides the journey red represents congested time information of different traffic, amber represents slow routes and assist you to make traffic and green represents an informed route choice smooth traffic. before arriving at the critical These signs normally give Advance direction signs and diversion points. road users information or direction signs normally have guidance about the route and a blue background but on about places and facilities of expressways, they are green. particular value or interest. When the signs are for local Most informatory signs are destinations or temporary Road markings are a special rectangular in shape but signs diversions, they have a white type of traffic signs which are giving route directions at a or yellow background marked on the surface of the junction usually have one end respectively. road. Like traffic signs, they pointed. can give orders, warning or information. Sometimes they are used with traffic signs. Variable message signs Speed map panels to provide real-time traffic information and Speed map panel systems are estimated journey times. You installed in the New Territories can make use of the real-time at critical diversion points of information to choose the strategic routes to Kowloon most appropriate route. Variable message signs give general road information, including traffic conditions Prismatic variable message ahead and road safety signs are used at approaches messages. to tunnels and major bridges to give information on temporary traffic arrangements for diversions due to incidents or adverse weather.

110 The Language of the Road Traffic Signs giving Orders

1. Give way to 2. Stop and 3. Ahead only 4. Keep left 5. Turn left 6. Turn left at 7. No stopping 8. No parking 9. No entry 10. One way traffic on give way (keep right (turn right junction for all vehicles traffic major road if symbol if symbol ahead reversed) reversed) (turn right if symbol reversed)

11. Vehicles 12. Vehicles 13. No lane 14. 15. Bicycle/ 16. 17. Multi- 18. Cycling 19. End of 20. Light rail must stop at must stop at changing Segregated tricycle route. Segregated cycle ground. restriction – cycling vehicles and the sign the sign pedestrian No motor pedestrian No motor cyclists must restriction trams only (sign used by (sign used by and bicycle/ vehicles route and vehicles dismount and police) school tricycle route. multi-cycle push their crossing No motor ground. No cycles patrol) vehicles motor vehicles

30. Restriction does 21. Dual 22. Direction 23. 24. 25. One way not apply to vehicle carriageway in which the Prohibition or Prohibition or road ahead classes shown to 26. No ahead prohibition or restriction mandatory 27. End of 28. No 29. End of pick up or drop off stopping restriction applies in order applies ʻno stopping for public light passengers during time applies both to vehicle stoppingʼ public light buses ʻno (wording may be shown (symbol may directions class shown restriction buses during stoppingʼ varied to loading/ be reversed) time shown restriction unloading goods) 111 The Language of the Road

31. Pedestrian 32. Vehicles 33. No motor 34. No motor 35. No motor 36. No buses 37. No public 38. No goods 39. No motor 40. No left- priority zone prohibited as vehicles vehicles cycles and and coaches light buses vehicles vehicles turn (No right- indicated by except motor motor driven by turn if symbol supplementary cycles and tricycles learner drivers reversed) plate motor tricycles

41. No U-turn 42. No 43. No 44. No 45. No use 46. No 47. No 48. No 49. No 50. No pedestrians pedestrians, bicycles of horn overtaking vehicles over vehicles or vehicles over vehicles over pedestrian and width shown combinations height shown gross vehicle controlled tricycles (including of vehicles over (including weight shown vehicles, bicycles load) length shown load) (including load) and tricycles (including load)

51. No 52. Speed 53. Variable 54. Prohibition 55.Prohibition 56.Prohibition 57. Prohibition 58. Time plate 59. Day plate 60. Time and vehicles over limit speed limit does not apply or mandatory or mandatory or mandatory day plate axle weight (in km/h) (in km/h) to vehicles order applies order applies order does shown gaining access to vehicles to goods not apply to (including to premises over the vehicles over vehicle classes load) adjacent to the length shown the gross shown road vehicle weight (see page 99) shown 112 The Language of the Road

61. Length 62. End of the 63. Left lane shows bus lane 65. Contra- 66. End of 67. End of 68. End of rail over which prohibition, for franchised buses only 64. Left lane shows bus lane flow bus lane bus lane tram only lane only lane for the prohibition restriction or during the time shown for franchised and other for franchised light rail or hazard warning buses during the time shown buses only vehicles exists

69. No wind susceptible 70. Sign marking start of 71. Sign marking end of 72. No 73. Sign when vehicles (vehicles with an tunnel area tunnel area vehicles used with Sign overall height exceeding carrying 72 to indicate 74. Parking place for specified 1.6m, motor cycles and dangerous the categories vehicle class or type shown on motor tricycles) goods of of dangerous sign specified goods categories

75. Parking place for vehicles other than medium 76. Parking 77. Parking 78. Parking 79. Parking 80. Start and 81. End of an 82. Taxi stand 83. Urban taxi and heavy goods vehicles, place for place for place for place for continuation expressway stand used buses, coaches, motor goods buses and motor cycles pedal cycles of an with Sign 82 cycles and pedal cycles vehicles only coaches only only only expressway 113 The Language of the Road

84. New Territories 85. Lantau taxi stand, 86. Cross-harbour taxi 87. End of New 88. End of Lantau 89. Green 90. Green taxi stand, used with used with Sign 82 stand, used with Sign 82 Territories taxis taxis operating minibus stop minibus stand Sign 82 operating area area

91. Red 92. Red 93. Vehicle must 94. Time plate 95. Time plate 96. Hard shoulder – do not 97. Lay-by, use in an minibus stop minibus stand use the left most for taxi stand for public light use except in an emergency emergency lane except when and taxis bus stand and overtaking parking at public light buses other times parking at other times

98. Cyclists must dismount 99. Way out 100. No exit for 101. Way in for 102. No entry 103. Autotoll 104. Autotoll and use crossing to cross for vehicles vehicles vehicles for vehicles booth traffic lane the road (Signs 99 to 102 used at entrances or exits of car parks or petrol filling stations) 114 The Language of the Road Traffic Signals giving Orders

1. Stop 2. Stop 3. Go if 4. Go but only 5. Go, but 6. Go, but 7. Go, but 8. Stop 9. Traffic 10. Traffic light 11. Stop behind the behind the way is in the turn left ahead only turn right behind the light signal signal for light rail behind the ‘Stop’ line ‘Stop’ line clear direction of only only ‘Stop’ line for trams vehicles only signals, when and the left arrow unless only flashing prepare to unsafe to alternately start when do so green light shows

Lane signals

12. Do not 13. Proceed 14. Change 15. Change 16. Leave 17. Leave 18. Do not 19. Warning 20. Proceed proceed in this lane if it lanes to left lanes to right expressway at expressway at proceed signal – slow in this lane if it beyond the is safe to do next exit on next exit on beyond the down and is safe to do signal in this so the left ahead the right signal in this prepare to so lane ahead lane stop

Lane Pedestrian signals signals

21. Drive with 22. No wind susceptible caution and vehicles (vehicles prepare to with an overall height change lanes exceeding 1.6m in 23. Do not 24. Cross 25. Do not or stop height, motor cycles cross with care start to cross and motor tricycles)

115 The Language of the Road Traffic Signs giving Warning

1. Stop or 2. Distance 3. Distance 4. Bend to left 5. Left bend 6. Double 7. Dual 8. Round- 9. Road 10. Road give way to ʻGive wayʼ to ʻStopʼ line, ahead sign with bend ahead carriageway about ahead narrows on narrows on ahead line, used with used with (right if symbol ‘reduce speed first to right ends ahead right ahead both sides Sign 1 Sign 1 reversed) now’ (symbol may (left if symbol ahead (right if symbol be reversed) reversed) reversed)

11. Reduce 12. Lowering 13. Sharp 14. Traffic 15. Steep 16. Steep hill 17. Use low 18. Use 19. Keep in 20. Single file speed now of speed limit deviation signals ahead hill upwards downwards gear low gear low gear traffic ahead to that shown of route to ahead ahead for distance ahead left (right shown if symbol reversed)

21. Cyclists to keep left 22. Cyclists to walk on steep 23. Traffic 24. Pedestrian 25. Cross roads 26. Staggered 27. Side road to road accident accident ahead junction ahead right ahead (left if blackspot blackspot (symbol may be symbol reversed) ahead ahead reversed) 116 The Language of the Road

28. T-junction 29. Traffic 30. Merging 31. Slip road 32. Merging into 33. Overhead 34. Disabled 35. Level 36. Quay- 37. ahead merging from into main traffic merging main traffic on electric cable persons crossing with side or river Restricted left traffic on right from left right ahead ahead barrier ahead bank ahead headroom ahead (Symbol may be reversed) Merging traffic from slip road should give priority to main traffic on expressway (blue colour for trunk roads)

38. 39. Children 40. Risk of 41. Horses 42. Cattle 43. Fog or 44. Bus 45. Bus lane 46. Bus lane 47. Bus lane 48. Warning Pedestrian ahead falling or ahead ahead mist ahead lane ahead ahead (Franchised (All buses) to crossing fallen rocks (Franchised (All buses) buses) on on major pedestrians ahead ahead buses) major road road ahead crossing ahead road with bus lane

49. Light rail 50. Light rail 51. Light rail 52. 53. 54. Cyclists 55. Uneven 56. Road 57. Two-way 58. Two-way vehicles or vehicle lane vehicle lane Pedestrians Cycleway ahead road surface hump ahead traffic across traffic ahead trams ahead or tram lane or tram lane on or crossing ahead ahead a one-way ahead on major road road ahead (cyclists on or road ahead ahead crossing road ahead) 117 The Language of the Road

59. Red light/speed camera 60. Red light camera control 61. Plate used with Sign 33 62. School ahead, plate used 63. Playground ahead, plate ahead zone to state the safe height with Sign 39 used with Sign 39

64. Distance as shown 65. Red-on 66. White-on 67. Amber-on to hazard the left edge the right edge the right edge of a road of a single of the central carriageway reservation of a dual carriageway (Hazard markers - facing drivers to indicate the edge of a carriageway or an obstruction near that edge)

118 The Language of the Road Temporary Signs and Road Markings Temporary signs Temporary signs are used to give warning of temporary hazards, or information or guidance about temporary traffic arrangement. They can 1. Right lane 2. Right lane 3. Left lane 4. Left lane 5. Road 6. Divert to 7. Keep right 8. Vehicles be regulatory, warning or closed ahead closed ahead only ahead only ahead on works ahead another (keep left if may pass informatory. Temporary two-way road carriageway symbol either side to signs are as important as to right ahead reversed) reach same permanent signs. You should (direction may destination look out for them even if you be reversed) are on a familiar road. (Red bars in signs 1 to 4 indicate that lanes are closed) Temporary signs are usually mounted on portable stands but may also be found on posts like permanent signs. Some regulatory signs such as ʻStopʼ and ʻGoʼ may be manually operated. 9. Road 10. End of 11. Used with 12. Temporary 13. Temporary 14. Manually 15. Manually 16. Manually Temporary signs can be narrows on road works, Sign 5 to closure of sharp operated operated operated used for temporary traffic left ahead used with indicate line lane or road deviation to ʻStop/Goʼ temporary temporary arrangements for major (right if symbol Signs 1 to 5 painting left (right if sign ahead ʻStopʼ sign ʻGoʼ sign events or if a section of road reversed) (wording may symbol is closed because of an be varied to reversed) emergency or road works. suit nature of road works) They can also be used for warning of temporary road conditions or for short-term traffic control by the police.

17. Ramp or sudden change 18. Ramp or sudden change 19.Temporary 20.Temporary 21.Temporary 22. Traffic of road level ahead of road level traffic cylinder ʻNo parkingʼ signals ahead sign 119 The Language of the Road

Diversion signs guide you along an alternative route that will rejoin the normal route after passing the closed road or obstruction. Temporary direction signs may be used 23. Road ahead 24. Road closed to 25. Temporary 26. Temporary 27. Used with 28. Temporary for temporary routes or for closed to vehicles vehicles route for vehicles route for temporary traffic closure of short-term events that likely pedestrians signals. Vehicles pedestrian crossing attract much traffic. Diversion must not proceed signs and temporary direction beyond the sign signs have a yellow when red light background. shows. Sometimes a worded warning sign may be used for specific hazard when there is no suitable standard sign for use. The signs are usually of rectangular shape and have a red background. 29. Diversion 30. Temporary 31. Temporary 32. End of 33. Slippery 34. Loose 35. Uneven 36. Slow ahead for all diversion for route for all diversion road ahead chippings road surface (Sign used by Temporary road markings vehicles at all vehicles diverted traffic ahead ahead police in distance emergency) Temporary road markings may shown also be used to delineate carriageway edges or to divide a carriageway into traffic lanes (see pages 124 to 127).

37. Warn of 38. Other 39. Used with 40. Single file 41. Slow, 42. Reduce road surfacing danger ahead Sign 38 traffic ahead road works speed now, works (used with (wording may (wording may works ahead (wording may plate to be varied) be varied to be varied to describe the 'Single track suit specific hazard) road') hazard) 120 The Language of the Road Direction Signs Direction signs guide you Left: A simple advance to your destination. direction sign showing the All important traffic routes destinations. have direction signs, most are Far right and right: The blue with a white border, but advance direction signs may signs on expressways are also show a simple map of green. the junction layout – the more Most strategic trunk roads important the road from the have route numbers shown junction, the thicker the line on shields on direction signs, on the sign. which enable motorists to quickly find the most Left: Advance direction signs convenient and direct route for a roundabout showing the from one district to another. exit arrangement. Exit to expressway or local To change your mind in last destination is shown in minute or hesitation in green or white background choosing route at diverging respectively. point is dangerous. Understanding the direction Far right and right: At multi- signing system, knowing well level junctions on roads with in advance which route you faster traffic, information need to take and following about the junction is usually direction signs in good time given at least 500m in (At 500m in advance) will enable you to drive safely advance and repeated at the beginning of the deceleration and avoid unnecessary (At start of deceleration lane) detour. Always plan your route lane. before moving off (see the Left: Advance direction signs details of mobile applications may also give advance for journey planning in ʻFurther indications of prohibitions or Reference Materialsʼ). warning of dangers ahead. Direction signs are normally Far right and right: Lane provided on the approach to information may also be given and at junctions. Those on the on an advance direction sign approach to junctions are or marked on the road. ʻadvance direction signsʼ.

121 The Language of the Road Traffic Signs giving Information

On busy roads, signs may be placed on gantries above the Symbols for the three cross-harbour tunnels are marked with E, C and W to indicate the roads. (The panel on the right indicates the lane to Sha Tin directions to the Eastern Harbour Crossing, Cross-Harbour Tunnel and Western Harbour through a road tunnel.) Crossing respectively. The arrow below the destinations points to the lane for these The arrow below the destinations points to the lane for these destinations, and you should destinations, and you should select your destination and get select your destination and get in appropriate lane. The middle two lanes can equally lead in appropriate lane. you to all destinations shown in the middle panel.

Chainage Direction sign Direction sign showing Direction sign to Direction sign for Pointed direction Route Continuation marker to give showing exit destination and its expressway. local destination sign at junction number of expressway position along number along associated exit Destination, route (black on white marks the turn to along with route strategic strategic route number along number and background) the destination strategic number routes (see strategic route expressway logo shown route page 133) are shown. (On major trunk roads, the signs are in blue background; on expressways, the signs are in green.) Symbols may be used on direction signs to help you find your route quickly or direct you to a facility Urban taxi New Territories Lantau taxi such as parking Direction to Direction to airport Direction to pick up and taxi pick up and pick up and place. The symbols parking place nearby hospital may also appear on with accident drop off only drop off only drop off only Give way to their own. and emergency buses services 122 The Language of the Road

Direction signs for cyclists or pedestrians Direction signs for pedestrians or cyclists show a pedestrian Route for cyclists or cycle symbol respectively Direction to hillside escalators Direction to subway and are also blue in colour with An international symbol of a white border. They may also accessibility may appear on show some of the symbols signs to indicate suitable used on general direction signs routes or entrances to (see page 122). Route for pedestrians facilities for the disabled Direction to Mass Transit Railway (MTR) Station Informatory signs

Carriageway No through No through No through 300m 200m 100m Sign showing narrows on road road on left road on right Countdown markers used to indicate the distance lane indication right to an exit on the left side of a road arrows for each (background lane or temporary in green if on (Background in green if on expressway) lane closure at expressway) (Symbols may be reversed to indicate exit on right) junction ahead Worded informatory signs

Start of dual Place for Sign at start Private road For use by Prepare to Stop at Census point Advance carriageway temporary of single track police at stop if ʻCensus warning of a ahead stopping of road accident site signalled to pointʼ need for lane vehicle to do so selection allow others to pass 123 The Language of the Road Road Markings giving Warning and Information

Kerbside marking at pedestrian Transverse crossing yellow bar Indicate to marking pedestrians Reduce speed direction in approaching looking for Lane line Centre line Warning line Warning Edge line of Edge line of Edge of the Edge of the exit to slip road / approaching hatched carriageway carriageway road at a road at a lay-by, roundabout/ traffic Line dividing Line dividing Replace lane marking (continuous) (broken) junction passing place toll plaza traffic lanes two-way or centre line or bus stop traffic near a hazard

Crossing area Remind Lane Slow - Hazard Get over to Entrance to Bus lane End of bus Marking at Start of the for drivers to information ahead the left (right if deceleration open for lane on left, end of bus speed limit as pedestrians get into the marking lane on the vehicles open for all lane shown appropriate reversed) left (right if turning left vehicles (right

lane marking of marking

reversed) reversed)

Bicycles and Multi-cycles Keep clear Give way to tricycles only only buses 124 The Language of the Road Road Markings giving Orders

Double white Double white Double white Double white Merging Diverging Hatched Start of bus Light rail Hard shoulder lines lines with lines where the lines where the chevron chevron traffic island lane marking vehicle only for hatching line nearest to line nearest to marking marking marking for with time lane emergency Do not cross you is solid you is broken two-way period shown use only or drive on Do not cross traffic or enter Do not cross May cross to hatched area or drive on overtake Do not cross or enter hatched area

‘Stop’ line at ‘Stop’ lines and markings at ‘Give way’ lines and warning traffic light ʻStopʼ priority junction marking at ‘Give way’ priority junction junction

125 The Language of the Road

No stopping at any time No stopping at times shown No parking at any time Pedestrian crossing Yellow striped markings at on ʻTime plateʼ or at times shown on light signal crossing ʻTime plateʼ (no stopping of vehicles over the markings)

Ahead only in Turn left in Turn right in Ahead or turn Ahead or turn Turn left or Ahead, turn Parking space Parking space Parking space this lane this lane this lane left in this lane right in this right in this left or turn marked with marked with for disabled lane lane right in this lines road studs person with lane parking permit only

126 The Language of the Road

Zebra crossing including its Box junction marking – do not Tram and North-west Railway No parking on yellow hatched Bus stop area marked with ʻGive wayʼ lines and zebra enter unless exit is clear crossing box marking – do not area lines controlled areas (marked with enter unless exit is clear zigzag lines) markings

Public light Light rail stop Tram stop Buses only Trams only Light rail Taxi pick up ʻAutotoll bus stand or (stop and vehicles only and drop off laneʼ guide taxi stand give way to only mark pedestrians crossing to or from tram) 127 The Language of the Road Strategic Route Numbers

Notes: For more information on strategic routes and their update, see ʻFurther Reference Materialsʼ. 128 The Language of the Road

Hong Kong strategic routes, Route Route Route Route including most trunk roads Aberdeen to Sha Tin Quarry Bay to Sai Ying Pun to Yuen Long Chai Wan to Kennedy Town and expressways, have route numbers which enable drivers Aberdeen – Wong Chuk Hang Quarry Bay – Eastern Harbour Sai Ying Pun – Western Chai Wan – Bay – to quickly find the most – – Crossing – Kwun Tong –Tateʼs Harbour Crossing – Container Wan Chai – Central – Sheung convenient and direct route Causeway Bay – Cairn Tunnel – Ma Liu Shui Port – Cheung Tsing Tunnel – Wan – Sai Ying Pun – from one district to another. Cross-Harbour Tunnel – (to join ) Tsing Yi – Tai Lam Tunnel – Kennedy Town Route number shields as well Hung Hom – Kowloon Tong – Pat Heung – Yuen Long as exit numbers are included – Sha Tin (to join Route 9) on direction signs to guide (to join Route 9) drivers. Chainage markers are also installed at regular intervals to advise your position along the strategic Route Route Route Route routes. Ngau Tau Kok to Tsuen Tseung Kwan O to West Tseung Kwan O to Kwai Sha Tin to Chek Lap Kok Wan Kowloon Chung Sha Tin – – Eagleʼs Ten routes have been Ngau Tau Kok – Kowloon Bay Tseung Kwan O – Tseung Kwan O – Tseung Nest Tunnel – designated under the – Kai Tak Tunnel – Hung Hom Tseung Kwan O-Lam Tin Kwan O Tunnel – Kwun Tong Wan – Ngong Shuen Chau – route numbering system. The – – Lai Chi Kok – Tunnel – Cha Kwo Ling – – Kowloon Bay – Wong Tai Tsing Yi – Nam Wan Tunnel – three north-south routes Kwai Chung – Tsuen Wan Kowloon Bay – Yau Ma Tei Sin – Sham Shui Po – Lai Chi Tsing Ma Bridge – Tung (Routes 1, 2 and 3) pass (to join Route 9) Interchange Kok – Kwai Chung Chung – Chek Lap Kok through the three cross- (to join Route 5) harbour tunnels, and their numbering sequence follows the opening of the tunnels (i.e. Cross-Harbour Tunnel, Eastern Harbour Crossing and Route Route Western Harbour Crossing). New Territories Circular Shenzhen Port Area to The six east-west routes Route Lam Tei (Routes 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 10) Shing Mun Tunnels – Tai Wai – Shenzhen Port Area – Tin have sequences starting from Sha Tin – Ma Liu Shui – Tai Po Shui Wai – Yuen Long south to north. The circular – Fanling – Sheung Shui – Lok Highway Route 9 circumscribes the Ma Chau – Yuen Long – Hung New Territories. Details of Shui Kiu – Tuen Mun – Sham these ten routes are listed Tseng – Tsuen Wan on the right:

129 Chapter 9 Children and Elderly People as Road Users Children and Elderly People as Road Users Children on the Road Do not allow young children Allow them plenty of time for You should allow children Children as cyclists Riding multi-cycles out alone on the road. Always their journey so they do not to play only in safe areas. You must not allow children go with them. If you cannot need to hurry, particularly Do not allow them to play on Riding of under the age of 11 to cycle go, ask another adult to go when going to school. Try to the roadway or the pavement. multi-cycles is on a road without adult restricted to with them. You should always ensure that they do not forget Do not allow them to play supervision. hold their hands and walk anything, as a worried or where they can easily reach certain between them and the traffic hurrying child may not take a road or pavement, or where Children should be advised to designated whenever you are on or near care. there is likelihood of moving or ride on cycle tracks and keep areas and cycle tracks as a road or pavement. If you parked vehicles. Do not allow away from vehicular traffic. indicated by the sign above. You should set a good cannot do this, use reins or them to carry out any other example when with children Do not allow any children to A child under the age of 11 secure them firmly in a activities, such as eating, by following the Road Usersʼ cycle on the road until they must be accompanied by pushchair or carry them. drinking, playing mobile Code carefully and clearly so have gained the skills to ride an adult so as to ride or Do not let them run onto the games, using a mobile phone, that they will learn the correct competently and safely, fully steer a multi-cycle in these road. listening to any audio device understood the driving rules, and safe way to use the road. places. or talking, when crossing the and are prepared to use and Children up to the age of 11 For example, you should roads. share the road with other road (those before secondary teach your children how to users. school age) should still be apply the Road Crossing Never wait for children on supervised on the roads, Code properly to cross the the other side of the road, You should also ensure that particularly the younger ones. road. for example when they are your children have put on You must hold their hands leaving school or a bus. suitable personal protective When using a pushchair, keep when crossing the road. If Children, excited to see you, equipment, and the cycles it away from the kerb they must go on their own, tell may dash across without suit their physical condition particularly when waiting to them not to cross unless all following the Road Crossing and are properly maintained cross a road, even though it the traffic from any direction Code properly. (also see Chapter 4 ʻFor may be more difficult to see if has stopped or there is no Cyclistsʼ on rules and advice anything is coming. Before When getting in or out of for cyclists). traffic in sight. Do not allow you cross to an island, make vehicles, let children get in first them to make a journey sure it has enough space for and get out last. When you unless they can cope with any both you and the pushchair. are dropping off a child alone, dangers they might encounter. If it is not, cross the whole wherever possible stop at a road in one go when it is safe location where the child will to do so. not have to cross the road.

130 Children and Elderly People as Road Users

You must not hold a child in Teaching children the Child safety in private cars your arms or allow the child Road Crossing Code Children are more vulnerable to sit on your lap when you in crashes. The best way to The Road Crossing Code is are sitting in the front protect them from the impact a guide for all pedestrians. passenger seat. In an of a crash is to put them in However, children need to accident, the child can be the rear seats and in suitable be taught how to use it and crushed between you and the restraints (see page 45 for should not be allowed to go vehicle dashboard or thrown more details of the use of seat out alone until they can fully out of the vehicle. understand and apply it belt and child restraining correctly. The age at which devices). This will stop them If children are in someone they can apply the Road from being thrown around or elseʼs car or if you are Crossing Code will vary; for out of the car. carrying a lot of children, suitable child restraints may instance, many children If you are the driver, it is your not be available. In that case, cannot fully understand and responsibility to ensure that all children should wear seat apply those parts of the passengers are belted up. For belts rather than not be Code requiring judgement of children, you have to ensure restrained at all. speed and distance of (a) any front seat passenger approaching vehicles. under the age of 3 is securely Young children should be Teaching children the Road fastened to the seat by means placed in the rear seats Crossing Code, and the age of an approved restraint for and restraining devices at which parents allow them children (equally applies if the appropriate to their age to go out and cross roads child passenger sits in the rear and size should be used by themselves, should and such restraining device is (see further information on therefore be suited to the available for use); and (b) any page 45). abilities of each child. front seat or rear seat (For a full explanation of the passenger of or over 3 years Road Crossing Code and of age but under 15 years old how to apply it in different must wear a seat belt (or a road and traffic situations, body restraining seat belt or a see pages 8 to 20.) lap belt or a restraining device for a young person) if such seat belt is available for use. Such seat belt must be secured to anchorage points of the vehicle other than on the seat itself. 131 Children and Elderly People as Road Users Elderly People on the Road Eyesight and hearing Elderly pedestrians • Observe traffic condition Elderly passengers deteriorate throughout adult carefully before crossing Before you go out, it is a good On taking public transport, life but judgement improves the road, and keep looking idea to plan in advance a safe bringing along with bulky with experience. However, and listening for traffic while route with proper crossing items may cause danger. The this experience is not enough crossing; facilities such as footbridges, seats at bus stops or light rail and the elderly people need subways, signalised crossings • If there is no proper platforms are provided for the more time to cross the road or ʻZebraʼ crossings. Don’t crossing facility, follow elderly while waiting. Chasing safely to overcome slower forget to bring along your the Road Crossing Code buses, public light buses, etc. movements and less ability to glasses, hearing aids and (see pages 8 to 20) to is very dangerous as people avoid the unexpected. Even a sticks, or get someone to cross the road; and may fall down or forget the relatively minor accident may accompany you if necessary. danger of traffic on the road. pose a serious threat to the • It is dangerous to cross You are reminded to note the elderly. This section gives the road by simply waving Allow adequate time in following in crossing the road: some safety tips for the hands to stop the boarding and alighting of elderly people in travelling. • Strictly follow traffic signals approaching traffic, or by vehicles, and pay attention to and allow sufficient time to emerging from gaps of the possible great difference cross the road. When slow-moving or stationary in level between the ground the ‘Green man’ signal is vehicles. and the vehicle platform to flashing, do not start to avoid losing balance. cross but wait until the next Once on board, sit on the steady ‘Green man’ shows. closest priority seat and Never cross when the ʻRed fasten seat belt, if available. manʼ signal shows; Otherwise, hold the handrail at all times to prevent loss of balance.

132 Chapter 10 Emergencies Emergencies Breakdowns and Emergencies Breakdowns Ensure that you and your Breakdown inside tunnel Hard shoulders passengers have kept away If your vehicle breaks down, You must switch off the from the danger of passing think first of your own safety. engine. Switch on the hazard traffic, and that children are Switch on your hazard warning lights immediately kept under control. warning lights immediately. and seek help from the police. Get your vehicle off the On some roads, usually Stay in the car wearing seat roadway if possible, such as expressways and trunk roads, belt and wait for assistance. On some roads, usually onto a lay-by, hard shoulder you can identify your location Follow the instructions of expressways, a hard or hard strip if available. by making reference to the tunnel officers or police shoulder may be provided for Switch off the engine. Never nearest chainage marker (route officers. emergency use. A traffic sign forget the danger of passing number, travel direction and If there is smoke coming marks the beginning of a hard traffic. chainage). Do not delay in out or in the event of a fire, shoulder and a thick solid obtaining assistance and do Leave your vehicle (by the you and your passengers white line marks the edge. not leave the vehicle left-hand doors) only if you are should leave the vehicle and You must not drive, park or unattended for a long period. sure you and your passengers move to a safe location as stop onto a hard shoulder Wait at roadside near the rear can safely get clear of the soon as possible but do not except in an emergency. of your vehicle where you can roadway and have a safe place forget to watch out for moving When rejoining the normal see the traffic coming but keep to wait for help. Animals, if any, traffic. Walk away from the traffic lanes, build up your well away from the carriageway should be left inside the vehicle direction of smoke. speed first on the hard and hard shoulder (behind (leaving some gaps in window shoulder and then look for crash barriers if available). for ventilation). If in doubt, you a safe gap in the traffic. and your passengers should (See page 98 for rules on remain in the vehicle and wear towing of vehicles.) seat belts until the emergency services arrive. You should Chainage Markers chainage then inform the police by route number Chainage markers (at intervals When on strategic routes, mobile phone as soon as travel direction of 100m) are installed along you should give accurately possible. ʻNʼ – north strategic routes and some the information shown on the General ʻSʼ – south trunk roads to provide nearest marker to the police, If you have come out of your strategic ʻEʼ – east information to motorists and fire/ambulance/towing vehicle, do not routes ʻWʼ – west on their positions, including services in case of traffic • stay on the roadway, ʻAʼ – anti-clockwise the route number, travel accident or breakdown. Route 9 only ʻBʼ – clockwise direction and chainage along • stand in front/at the rear of the route (see the example on your vehicle, or chainage the left). route number • attempt to check or repair travel direction your vehicle on the 133 roadway. Emergencies Warning other Drivers Warn other drivers of an Hazard warning lights Warning triangles If your vehicle could be an obstruction by switching on obstruction to traffic, under the four-way hazard warning safe conditions, stand the lights. Ensure that nothing warning triangle on the road, blocks the hazard warning preferably in the same lane, lights from the sight of other at about 50 metres before the drivers. If necessary, switch obstruction and on the same on other lights or use any side of the road (see the other means of warning diagram on the left). Always approaching traffic. walk behind the roadside crash barriers, if available. If you have a red warning You must turn on the hazard If the road is not straight or triangle, display it at a suitable warning lights if your vehicle is Carry a suitable warning level, stand the warning place behind your vehicle to stationary on an expressway triangle for use in an triangle where an oncoming warn other drivers (see this or a road with a speed limit emergency or when your driver will see it before coming page). When the obstruction exceeding 50 km/h because vehicle breaks down on roads to any bend or brow of a hill. is cleared, do not forget to of a breakdown or an with speed limit up to 50 km/h 50m However, if it is not safe for remove any warning signs/ emergency to warn other to warn other drivers of your you to do so, place the objects placed on the road. drivers of your presence. vehicleʼs presence or other triangle nearer the vehicle. However, on expressways or obstruction. The triangle As a safety practice, you roads with fast traffic (speed should have a red reflective When the obstruction is may also turn on the hazard limit exceeding 50 km/h), or fluorescent surface so that cleared, do not forget to warning lights when your do not attempt to place it can be easily seen in all remove the warning triangle. vehicle is likely to be a hazard a warning triangle or any conditions. to other road users (e.g. when warning objects on the parking, carrying out carriageway as it is a temporary loading/unloading, dangerous action and the or making sudden objects placed may pose deceleration because of danger to other road users. congestion ahead) whether Just switch on your hazard the vehicle is stationary or warning lights. in motion.

134 Emergencies Traffic Accidents If a traffic accident occurs, personal injuries, you must particularly on the head, see a Fire First aid there are many things that report it in person to any doctor even if there are no have to be done at once, and police officer or at the nearest external injuries. there is more involved than police station as soon as merely helping the casualties reasonably practicable but not Getting help – warning other drivers, later than 24 hours after the sending for help and accident, unless you are protecting the site from further incapable of doing so accidents until the emergency because of injury. services arrive. Never forget the danger of passing traffic. If any person is killed or injured, or there is serious Fire is one of the dangers For most people without any damage to any vehicle or following a traffic accident. first aid training, it is better to What to do after a traffic property in the accident, you 999 Put out lighted cigarettes or do nothing and wait until accident or any other person must not other fire hazards, switch off medical help arrives. However, Stop if you are involved in a move or interfere with any Make an emergency call 999 your engine and warn others if further danger threatens, it traffic accident when you are vehicle involved without the for the police, and request for to do the same. Check any may be necessary to help an driving or riding any vehicle, permission of a police officer, fire and ambulance services leaking from the oil tank if injured person. For advice on including a cycle, even if your except to save life, put out a immediately. condition allows and it is safe what to do, see page 137. vehicle is not damaged. to do so. fire or deal with any other Give the following information: Get some basic training in first emergency. You must stop, or remain • exact location of the If you have a suitable fire aid so you can be of some stationary, if the accident If the accident only involves accident; extinguisher, make sure you help to injured people by involves (a) personal injuries or slight damage to the vehicles know how to use it. giving them necessary first aid (b) damage to third partyʼs or property without causing • number and general safely and without causing vehicle, property or animal. personal injury, you may, condition of casualties; Dangerous goods further risk to the injured. You must give your name and having discussed with other • number and type of If the accident involves a You can learn first aid from address, the name and drivers and the third party vehicles involved; and vehicle containing dangerous the Hong Kong St. John address of the vehicle owner involved, move the vehicle to goods, keep well away from Ambulance or from the and the vehicle registration • dangerous goods or fire a nearby safe place at the the vehicle unless you have to Hong Kong Red Cross First number to any police officer or hazards, if any. roadside so as not to cause approach to save life. Beware Aid Training Centre. to anyone (such as the third any obstruction to traffic. It is of dangerous liquid, dust or party involved) who has Carry a clearly marked first aid not necessary to report such vapour concentration. reasonable grounds for accident to the police unless kit. Keep it in a place, such as wanting them. If you fail to do there is a need to seek their Look for as much information a glovebox, where it can be this in an accident involving assistance in handling the as possible from labels and located if needed. It may not only damage to third party’s accident. other markings and arrange be possible to open the boot vehicle, property or animal, or for the police or fire brigade to of a car after an accident. if the accident involves If you or any person received be told immediately. a severe blow in the accident, 135 Emergencies

Traffic accidents inside a Traffic accidents ahead Help others If you are at the scene of tunnel When you see a traffic a traffic accident, see If you are involved in a traffic accident and wish to offer pages 137 and 138 for a accident inside a tunnel, help, first consider your own checklist on what to do do not move your vehicle. safety and follow the advices and for advice on first You should follow the advice on page 135. aid. for breakdown inside tunnel Do not leave your vehicle on page 133. where it could become a hazard to other traffic. Stop at the roadside at a safe distance behind the accident site and where your vehicle Warning signs used by can easily be seen. Leave emergency services at the room for emergency vehicles. site of a traffic accident. Slow Use your hazard warning down to a speed, slower lights. At night you can light than normal, at which you the accident site with your can stop quickly and safely. headlamps. Prepared to stop if signalled to do so and give way to emergency vehicles.

136 Emergencies In an Emergency Checklist on what to do in an emergency Warn other traffic Prevent fire Assess conditions • Is there danger from dangerous goods? • Switch on hazard warning • Impose a ʻNo smokingʼ • How many people lights. ban. involved? • Is there anybody present with first aid training? • Display a warning triangle, if • Switch off vehicle engines. • How many vehicles available and safe to do so involved? • Locate first aid kits, if any. • Deal with other fire hazards. (except roads with speed • Is anybody trapped inside limit exceeding 50km/h). vehicles? • Switch on other lights and • Is there danger of fire from use any other means, if leaking fuel? necessary.

Get help Help the casualties • If you need to move injured Other action people or they are having • Use any phone to dial 999 • Do not move injured people • Help uninjured people get difficulty in breathing or are to seek help with details of unless there is immediate out of their vehicles and to heavily, follow the location and casualties. danger. a safe place, if necessary. advice on page138. • If they are breathing and • Stay at a safe place near not bleeding heavily – do the scene until emergency nothing unless you are services arrive. sure you know what you are doing.

137 Emergencies First Aid on the Road – If You have no First Aid Training See to unconscious people first Do not move injured people unless there is immediate danger. You could make worse any internal, back or neck injuries. If you are not sure what to do, leave them well alone, but try to help if they are having difficulty in breathing or are bleeding heavily.

Inside vehicle Mouth-to-mouth Outside vehicle To stop serious bleeding If conscious and breathing • Do not move the injured resuscitation to start • Do not move the injured Wear a pair of rubber gloves Look for broken bones and people unless there is breathing people unless there is if available and apply very firm hidden injuries. Gently support immediate danger, for Roll the injured people onto immediate danger, then hand pressure to the bleeding the injured people in a example a fire. his/her back. Support the only move them a short point to stem the flow of position of least pain. Avoid neck so that the head falls distance to a safer place. blood. Use a pad or apply a unnecessary movement. • Support the head in case back to open the airway. Do not allow his/her neck sterile dressing and bandage the injured people passes People in shock – pale and Pinch the injured peopleʼs to move. firmly. out and chokes. sweating – should lie down nose shut and hold the mouth • Roll gently onto his/her with legs raised, if possible. • Remove any food, debris, open. Cover the mouth with side. But only if they are not injured fluid or false teeth from the yours and blow out firmly to or there is no risk of internal mouth. inflate the lungs. Then release • Remove any food, debris, injuries. nose and mouth. Keep fluid or false teeth from the • If there is bleeding from repeating until the injured mouth. Keep all injured people, mouth and nose then turn people starts to breathe including those in shock, gently to his/her side. • Look, listen and feel for unaided. warm. Do not give them pain breathing and chest • Look, listen and feel for relievers, alcohol, other drinks, movement. If you cannot breathing and chest food or cigarettes – they may detect breathing, try to movement. If you cannot have internal injuries and will restore the injured people detect breathing, try to require medical treatment. by the mouth-to-mouth restore the injured people resuscitation. (See column Reassure them confidently by the mouth-to-mouth ʻmouth-to-mouth that help is coming. resuscitation. (See column resuscitation to start ʻmouth-to-mouth breathingʼ) resuscitation to start 138 breathingʼ) Further Reference Materials This section provides information on useful websites with further materials for reference. The contents of these websites do not form part of the Road Users’ Code. 1. Relevant Transport Department’s Website Road Users’ Code Advisory Leaflets and Guidelines The Road Users’ Code is available at the Transport Department's There are many road safety related guidelines, newsletters, leaflets, homepage: pamphlets, etc. available at the Transport Department’s homepage: Transport Department’s homepage > ‘’ Transport Department’s homepage > ‘Transport in Hong Kong’ > ‘Road Safety’ > ‘Road Users’ Code’ > ‘Road Safety’. Examples are: • Safe Cycling Guides Relevant Codes of Practice – Cycling Information Centre The following codes of practice are available at the – Safe Cycling: Rules and Tips Transport Department's homepage: • Safe Motoring Guides Transport Department’s homepage > ‘Publications and Press Releases’ – Roundabouts > ‘Publications’ > ‘Code of Practice’ – Seat belts Examples are: – Drink Driving • Code of Practice for the Loading of Vehicles – Drug Driving • Code of Practice for Private Roads • Road Safety Bulletins Strategic Routes and Expressways • Newsletters, leaflets and pamphlets More information on strategic routes and their update: Transport Driving-offence points system Department’s homepage > ‘Transport in Hong Kong’ > ‘HK Strategic Transport Department’s homepage > ‘Transport in Hong Kong’> Route, Exit Number and Chainage Marker System’ > ‘Road Safety’ > ʻSafe Motoring Guidesʼ > ʻDriving-offence points Latest list of expressways: systemʼ Transport Department’s homepage > ‘Traffic Notices’ > ‘Notices on Expressways’ > ‘Determination and Delineation of Boundaries Guidelines for Right-driving Road of Expressways’ In general, the Road Users’ Code contains the rules, advice and information for all road users covering most road and traffic Information on Driving and Vehicle Licences conditions, including the Hong Kong – Zhuhai – Macao Bridge – Transport Department’s homepage > ‘Public Services’ > Hong Kong Link Road. However, users of the Hong Kong Link Road ‘Licences & Permits’. Examples are: also need to fully understand and comply with the relevant legislation, • Licences & Permits rules and advice for right-driving road. More information on the use of – Driving Licences right-driving road is available at the Transport Department's – Vehicle Licences homepage: – Driving Tests Transport Department’s homepage > ‘Transport in Hong Kong’ > ‘Land-based Cross Boundary Transport’ > ‘Access to Hong Kong – Information on Vehicle Examination Zhuhai – Macao Bridge (HZMB) Hong Kong Port’ Transport Department’s homepage > ‘Public Services’ > ‘Vehicle Type Approval and Examination’ > ‘Vehicle Examination’. Examples are: Hong Kong eMobility • Vehicle Examinations Transport Department's mobile application for journey planning is – Alterations and Modifications to Vehicle - DO’s and DON’Ts available at the Transport Department's homepage: – Guidelines for Adding Non-factory Built Storage Box on Motorcycles Transport Department’s homepage > ‘Public Services’ > ‘All-in-one – Tyres and Your Safety Mobile Application “HKeMobility”’ 139 2. Legislation 4. Further Advice from The legislation of Hong Kong are available at the Hong Kong The Code of Practice for e-Legislation website: the Lighting, Signing and https://www.elegislation.gov.hk Guarding of Road Works (published by the Highways Department) 3. Relevant Websites of the Government Departments and You can access the Code at Pass the vehicle on its left the Road Safety Council the Highways Department’s Transport Department https://www.td.gov.hk homepage: https://www.police.gov.hk Highways Department’s Highways Department https://www.hyd.gov.hk homepage> ‘Publications & Environmental Protection https://www.epd.gov.hk Publicity’ > ‘Publications’ > Department ‘Technical Documents’ > Pass the vehicle on its right Road Safety Council http://www.roadsafety.gov.hk ‘Code of Practice for the Lighting, Signing and Guarding of Road Works’

Flashing Arrow Sign Pass the vehicle on its right The Code of Practice for the or left Lighting, Signing and Guarding of Road Works advises those responsible for road works to use ‘Flashing Arrow Sign’ to warn drivers of the presence of stationary or slowly moving works vehicle and lane closure on roads with speed limit of 70 km/h or above. Drivers should be alert and take special care once seeing the sign at Hazard (amber lights at distance - suitably reduce diagonal corners are speed and follow the arrow flashing alternately) - the direction to change lanes and works vehicle intends to pass the works vehicle carefully. change or is changing lane. 140 Prepared by the Transport Department Designed by the Information Services Department Printed by the Government Logistics Department Copyright Reserved ‛Pursuant to the Road Traffic Ordinance, a failure on the part of any person to observe any rule or follow any advice in the Road Usersʼ Code is in itself not an offence, but any such failure may be taken into account in any proceedings (whether civil or criminal, and including proceedings for an offence under the Road Traffic Ordinance) when deciding if a road user was at fault or not and to what extent, and may also be relied on for establishing or negativing any liability under any of these proceedings. It should however be noted that many of the rules in the Road Usersʼ Code directly reflect the law and a person not observing these rules may be committing an offence. Changes in legislation may render parts of the Code incorrect. In all instances, the prevailing legislation takes precedence.ʼ

Further enquiry For enquiries, please contact the Transport Department through 1823 as follows: Telephone hotline 1823 Fax hotline 2760 1823 E-mail address [email protected] RoadRoad Users’Users’ CodeCode

PreparedPrepared by by the the Transport Transport Department Department TheThe Government Government of of the the DesignedDesigned by by the the Information Information Services Services Department Department PrintedPrinted by by the the Government Government Logistics Logistics Department Department HongHong Kong Kong Special Special Administrative Administrative Region Region HongHong Kong Kong Special Special Administrative Administrative Region Region Government Government $42 JuneJune 2020 2020 Edition Edition EffectiveEffective from from 19 19 June June 2020 2020