Recently, an incident involving a driver singing karaoke while driving has stirred public discussion. The Krông Pắk District Police (Đắk Lắk province) summoned Ms. N.T.L (32 years old, Hòa An commune) for questioning due to this dangerous behavior. Whether this is related to a truck accident opposite a karaoke establishment is still under investigation. However, this incident serves as a reminder of the dangers of distracted driving.
Karaoke While Driving Incident
On the afternoon of December 10th, Ms. L. was driving a 7-seater car carrying 5 people from Đắk Nông to Đắk Lắk for a wedding. During the journey, the passengers sang karaoke using an iPad. Ms. L. also joined in singing and was recorded by a passenger, who then broadcast the video live on social media.
Ms. L.’s actions occurred in Đắk Nông, so the Krông Pắk District Police will transfer the case file to the Đắk Nông Provincial Police for handling. This incident raises questions about the responsibility of drivers while participating in traffic. Could this behavior be an indirect cause of the truck accident near the karaoke establishment? The answer is still pending conclusion from the authorities.
Penalties for Using a Phone While Driving
Lawyer Phùng Huyền stated that Ms. L.’s behavior is dangerous and reprehensible. Currently, Decree 100/2019/NĐ-CP (amended by Decree 123/2021/NĐ-CP) does not have specific penalties for singing karaoke while driving. However, using a phone while driving a car is subject to a maximum fine of 3 million VND and a 3-month driver’s license suspension.
Serious Consequences of Causing Accidents
If an accident occurs, Ms. L. could be fined up to 12 million VND and have her driver’s license suspended for 4 months (point a, clause 7, article 5 of Decree 100). In case of serious accidents, criminal prosecution may be pursued under Article 260 of the 2015 Penal Code (amended in 2017), with a maximum prison sentence of 15 years and a ban from holding positions or practicing professions for 1 to 5 years.
Expert Recommendations
Lawyer Phùng Huyền advises: “Be responsible when operating a vehicle, ensuring safety for yourself and others.” Singing karaoke and using a phone while driving pose potential traffic accident risks and should be dealt with seriously. Do not let momentary distraction cause regrettable consequences, especially considering the recent truck accident opposite the karaoke establishment, it is even more important to be vigilant when participating in traffic.
