## New Traffic Laws Spark Debate Among Vietnamese Drivers
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Vietnamese drivers are discussing on social media and forums about how to navigate the new traffic decree. Most agree that yielding to emergency vehicles is a given. However, some express hesitation due to the risk of hefty administrative fines if they run a red light while yielding.
## Can You Run a Red Light in an Emergency?
According to regulations, drivers who fail to obey traffic light signals face a fine ranging from 18 to 20 million VND. In addition to the fine, the driver’s license is docked four points.
If a driver causes a traffic accident, the administrative fine increases to 20-22 million VND, and their license is further docked by 10 points.
For motorcyclists, the fine for running a red light or disobeying traffic signals is 6-8 million VND. If an accident occurs due to failure to stop at a red light, the fine increases to 10-14 million VND.
The supplementary penalty for this traffic violation ranges from 4 to 10 points depending on the situation.
## High Fines and License Point Deductions Cause Concern
With the increased fines and license point deductions, many vehicle operators are worried. “If I yield and run a red light, and then get fined, how can I possibly afford to pay it?” shared Toàn Thắng, a ride-sharing driver, with Tri Thức – Znews.
Some argue that yielding to ambulances and fire trucks has become a habit and that they are certain they won’t be penalized. “No one is going to fine someone for running a red light to let an ambulance pass,” said Hoàng Anh, a 29-year-old office worker in Ho Chi Minh City.
## Previous Regulations and International Context
According to the previous Law on Handling Administrative Violations, individuals who commit violations in a state of emergency are exempt from punishment. Emergency vehicles include fire trucks, military vehicles, ambulances, and police cars.
When encountering these vehicles on the road, drivers are required to slow down, move to the side, and not obstruct their path.
## Failing to Yield to Emergency Vehicles Carries a Fine
Under the new regulations, motorcycle riders who intentionally obstruct or fail to yield to emergency vehicles with active signals will be fined 4-6 million VND and have four points deducted from their driver’s license.
For automobile drivers, the fine for this violation is 6-8 million VND, also with a four-point deduction from their license.
In many countries, failing to yield to emergency vehicles is considered a serious offense. For example, in California, USA, drivers who do not yield to ambulances or fire trucks face a fine of up to 1,000 USD, in addition to supplementary point deductions on their driver’s license.
## Legal Consequences and International Comparison
If an accident occurs due to failure to yield, or if there is intentional obstruction of emergency vehicles on duty, the violator may face criminal prosecution and imprisonment.
In Germany, for instance, a driver who does not yield to emergency vehicles will be fined 20 EUR, equivalent to 20.60 USD.
Yielding is not just a legal obligation but also a demonstration of responsibility and humanity, helping others in critical situations. The current regulations provide a solid legal framework to ensure priority for vehicles performing urgent duties.
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