Police probe video of child on driver’s lap
AM730 · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Police in Hong Kong have opened an investigation after an online video appeared to show a female driver operating a private car with a young child sitting on her lap in Kwai Chung. The New Territories South traffic investigation unit said it identified the incident through online patrols on August 22 and has classified the case as dangerous driving while inquiries continue.
Key Points
- The video showed a female driver in a private car bearing cross-boundary Hong Kong-mainland plates, travelling outside Kin Shue House, Lei Muk Shue Estate, toward On Yam Road
- Police said the car was moving along the carriageway outside Kin Shue House when the driver allegedly allowed a young child to sit on her lap.
- Am730 reported the driver was seen waving while driving, as the child was suspected to be seated on her lap during the journey
- The New Territories South Regional Traffic Department’s Traffic Investigation Team said it found the case through online patrols on August 22 and proactively began investigating.
- Police said dangerous driving is a serious traffic offence, punishable by a maximum fine of HK$25,000 and three years’ imprisonment.
Why It Matters
Police also warned that a child sitting on a driver’s lap without a seat belt could suffer serious injuries if a crash occurs. Am730 added that under the Road Traffic (Safety Equipment) (Amendment) Regulation 2024, children under eight who are below 1.35 metres must use child restraints in private cars, and offending drivers may face a fixed penalty of HK$230 or a maximum fine of HK$2,000