Living
Traffic Fines & Offences
Despite the chaos on its streets, Shanghai has an indepth system for penalising drivers and assigning fines, although these regulations change on a regular basis. Most often drivers who offend will find themselves faced with a small fine, but make the wrong move and you could have your licence revoked or, in the worst case-scenario, find yourself jailed.
The majority of fines are for speeding violations, and traffic irregularities such as ignoring a ‘no U-turn’ sign. Speeding can cost ¥200 or more, while not wearing a seat belt incurs a relatively small fee of around ¥5. Other minor offences include running a red light, ignoring street signs and crossing the white traffic line at a stop light. Illegal parking can cost ¥200 or more. If it is towed in the process, getting your car back will cost you around ¥300 and several hours of waiting. Driving without a licence can result in an instant visit to the police department. Likewise, drunk driving is one of the more serious offences and can lead to an immediate suspension of your licence at the least.
Cameras are located at many main intersections around the city, and can catch you running red lights, speeding or neglecting traffic lines. You can pay your fees at the local traffic police station that is specified by the ticket.
Seatbelt and safety laws are constantly developing and changing. Currently the law only requires that the driver fasten up; all cars are fitted with seat belts, but you’ll find the backseats of many taxis will have their seatbelts covered or in disrepair.
The majority of fines are for speeding violations, and traffic irregularities such as ignoring a ‘no U-turn’ sign. Speeding can cost ¥200 or more, while not wearing a seat belt incurs a relatively small fee of around ¥5. Other minor offences include running a red light, ignoring street signs and crossing the white traffic line at a stop light. Illegal parking can cost ¥200 or more. If it is towed in the process, getting your car back will cost you around ¥300 and several hours of waiting. Driving without a licence can result in an instant visit to the police department. Likewise, drunk driving is one of the more serious offences and can lead to an immediate suspension of your licence at the least.
Cameras are located at many main intersections around the city, and can catch you running red lights, speeding or neglecting traffic lines. You can pay your fees at the local traffic police station that is specified by the ticket.
Seatbelt and safety laws are constantly developing and changing. Currently the law only requires that the driver fasten up; all cars are fitted with seat belts, but you’ll find the backseats of many taxis will have their seatbelts covered or in disrepair.
