Driving a truck in the wrong direction is a serious traffic violation, not only endangering the driver and other vehicles but also posing a risk of unfortunate accidents. So, the question is, how much is the fine for trucks driving in the wrong direction according to current laws? This article by Xe Tải Mỹ Đình will provide detailed and updated information on the penalties for this violation, helping drivers understand and comply with traffic laws.
What Constitutes Wrong-Way Driving?
Wrong-way driving is defined as operating a vehicle in the opposite direction of the correct flow of traffic on a road, lane, or as indicated by road signs. This behavior includes several specific cases:
- Driving against the flow of traffic on a one-way street: This is a common and particularly dangerous violation, where a vehicle enters a road designated for traffic in only one direction.
- Driving against the “No Entry” sign: Disregarding the prohibition sign, the vehicle still moves in the opposite direction.
- Driving against the lane markings on a one-way road: The vehicle enters the lane of oncoming traffic on a divided road.
- Driving against the flow of traffic on a highway: The level of danger increases due to the high speed of vehicles on highways.
Wrong-way driving is a direct violation of the Road Traffic Law, demonstrating a lack of awareness of traffic regulations and seriously endangering all road users. For trucks, with their large size and weight, wrong-way driving further increases the risk and severity of accidents.
A truck commits a wrong-way driving violation on a busy street, endangering traffic participants.
A red truck is driving in the opposite direction of traffic flow on a city street filled with motorbikes and cars.
Penalties for Trucks Driving in the Wrong Direction Under the Newest Decree
According to current regulations, specifically Decree 100/2019/ND-CP as amended and supplemented by Decree 123/2021/ND-CP, the penalties for trucks driving in the wrong direction are clearly and strictly defined. The fine amount will depend on the location of the violation and the consequences caused:
- Driving against the “No Entry” sign or “One-Way Street” sign: A fine ranging from 18,000,000 VND to 20,000,000 VND is imposed. In addition, the violator will also have their driver’s license revoked for 01 to 03 months and driver’s license revoked for 02 to 04 months if a traffic accident is caused. (According to Point d, Clause 9, Point b, Clause 11, Article 6 of the Decree). Simultaneously, 04 points will be deducted from the driver’s license.
- Wrong-way driving causing a traffic accident: The fine increases to 20,000,000 VND to 25,000,000 VND. The violator will also have their driver’s license revoked for 03 to 05 months. (According to Point a, Clause 10, Point c, Clause 11, Article 6 of the Decree). Simultaneously, 10 points will be deducted from the driver’s license.
- Wrong-way driving on highways, highway ramps: This violation carries the highest penalty, ranging from 30,000,000 VND to 40,000,000 VND. The additional penalty is revocation of the driver’s license for 05 to 07 months. (According to Point b, Clause 11, Point d, Clause 11, Article 6 of the Decree). Simultaneously, 10 points will be deducted from the driver’s license.
A truck driving in the wrong direction is fined from 18 to 40 million VND depending on the severity.
A traffic police officer is issuing a ticket to a truck driver for wrong-way driving on a highway.
Note: The above penalties are for the truck driver. In addition, the vehicle owner may also be penalized if they entrust the vehicle to an unqualified driver who commits the violation.
Potential Dangers of Trucks Driving in the Wrong Direction
Wrong-way driving by trucks is not just a simple traffic violation; it also entails a series of unpredictable risks and consequences:
Risk of Serious Traffic Accidents
Trucks, with their large size and heavy weight, moving in the wrong direction create extremely dangerous traffic situations. Other vehicles moving in the correct direction usually do not anticipate this situation, leading to a lack of time to react and handle it, especially on highways where traffic speeds are very high. Collisions between wrong-way trucks and other vehicles often result in tragic accidents, causing severe damage to people and property.
Impact on Image and Reputation
For transportation businesses, having their trucks commit wrong-way driving violations not only results in fines but also seriously affects their image and reputation. This behavior demonstrates a lack of professionalism, disregard for the law and traffic safety, and erodes trust with partners and customers. In the long run, this can impact business operations and company development.
Setting a Bad Precedent and Disrupting Traffic Order
If wrong-way driving behavior is not strictly punished, it can set a bad precedent, causing others to imitate it. This prolonged situation will lead to chaos and disorder in traffic, increasing the risk of accidents and traffic congestion.
No Entry Sign and How to Recognize It
The “No Entry” sign is an important traffic sign that helps drivers recognize and avoid entering roads where wrong-way driving is prohibited. Recognizing and obeying this sign is the responsibility of every driver, especially truck drivers.
Identifying features of the No Entry sign:
- Shape: Circle.
- Color: Red background with a large white horizontal bar in the center.
This sign is usually placed at the beginning of one-way streets, intersections, or necessary locations to warn and prevent wrong-way driving.
A circular No Entry sign with a red background and white horizontal bar, an important recognition sign for drivers.
A close-up of a circular No Entry traffic sign with a red background and a white horizontal bar.
Conclusion
The article above has provided comprehensive information on the penalties for trucks driving in the wrong direction, as well as the serious risks and consequences of this behavior. It is hoped that through this article, truck drivers will raise their awareness of traffic law compliance, drive safely, and contribute to building a civilized traffic environment and reducing accidents. Wishing all drivers safe journeys on every road!
