Responding to media concerns about the regulation of designated drivers, Transport Bureau (DSAT) Director Kelvin Lam Hin San said yesterday that Macau’s current laws do not clearly regulate such drivers but, he was quick to add, his bureau has “an open attitude” towards the possible regulation of so-called designated drivers.
The Britannica Dictionary defines a designated driver as a person who agrees not to drink alcohol on a particular occasion so that he or she will be able to safely drive around other people who will be drinking alcohol.
Lam made the remarks after addressing yesterday’s closed-door meeting of the legislature’s 1st Standing Committee which is reviewing a government-initiated bill regulating the city’s public parking system.
Lam pointed out that regarding the situation that many people are seeking someone to drive them home using their own vehicles after drinking in the evening, there was a “good chance” for civil society to discuss the regulation of such a situation and safe driving, adding that the bureau would listen to the opinions of all parties concerned with “an open mind” and implement a relevant regulation “at an appropriate time” in the future.
Lam said that based on his observation there are no “mature” regulations on designated drivers in Macau’s neighbouring regions.
Due to the lack of official regulations, the bureau does not have any information on the situation of designated driving companies and drivers in Macau, according to Lam, who noted that there haven’t been many accidents involving designated drivers, according to data that he has received.
Lam underlined that all drivers must abide by Macau’s road traffic laws and regulations and bear the corresponding legal responsibilities if they break the law. He added that all motorists, including designated drivers, will be subject to legal sanctions if there is sufficient evidence for their breaches such as jumping a red light, speeding or crossing lane lines.
As for the liability for accidents involving designated drivers, Lam said that the current laws can already define the legal responsibilities involved, while insurance claims should be dealt with in accordance with the relevant provisions.
When asked whether a designated driving service is considered an illegal car hire service, Lam pointed out that different to a service that is provided by drivers who use their own vehicles to carry passengers, designated driving services are provided only when the vehicle owners request someone to drive their car with the owner as the passenger.
Illegal car hire services refer to owners of van-type light goods vehicles and private cars without hire car permits engaging in the business of carrying passengers.
Projects aim to improve traffic jams in Pérola Oriental to start in short term: Lam
Meanwhile, according to Lam, traffic improvement projects will get off the ground in the short term near Bai Yun Garden on Avenida do Dr Francisco Vieira Machado to reduce the traffic flow entering Rua da Pérola Oriental.
Traffic congestion will always occur when there is an increase in the number of visitor arrivals in Macau, Lam acknowledged, adding that the bureau is “redoubling its efforts” to “progressively” improve the situation.
During peak traffic hours, Lam said, about 1,500 vehicles per hour are diverted to the flyover at Rotunda da Amizade, thereby, “effectively” reducing the traffic flow in Rua da Pérola Oriental.
Lam also said that due to various reasons, the traffic congestion in the area is “certainly worse than” it was in 2019 but, he added, the bureau will keep a close eye on the situation.
Transport Bureau (DSAT) Director Kelvin Lam Hin San talks to the media after addressing yesterday’s closed-door meeting of the legislature’s 1st Standing Committee. – Photo courtesy of TDM
