Thursday, December 6, 2012

Cambodia--Rules of the Road


In the Kingdom of Wonder, rules surrounding transportation are unfathomably strict.  The safety of the driver, any passengers, and of course pedestrians is always the main concern. 

Firstly, it is imperative that drivers stay on the correct side of the street and stay within their own lane.  Laws of the road are strongly enforced and infractions such as running a red light or a stop sign, or driving the wrong way on a one way (or driving the wrong way on a two way) are dealt with accordingly.  Anyone choosing to ignore these laws, will face a substantial fine and possibly incarceration, depending on the severity of the circumstance. 

Traffic police are everywhere, and because the city takes such thoroughly excellent care of them and their families, they do an exemplary job of maintaining order, especially within the city of Phnom Penh.  Here, you will never EVER encounter such atrocities as damaged or closed streets, drunk or angry drivers, accidents, overloading, or any form of disrespect on the road. 

Speaking of drunk drivers, any driver not in an obviously aware and clear state of mind will be tested.  If he or she fails to pass the test, the driver’s vehicle will be confiscated, and he or she will be escorted either home or to serve mandatory jail time.  We do not take these issues lightly here in Cambodia.  Anyone disregarding this law will “think before drinking,” smoking, snorting, or injecting in the future. 

Everyone is treated equally.  In the case of an accident, there is a thorough and speedy investigation.  The driver at fault ALWAYS remains at the scene until the issue is resolved.  Compensation is fair and based solely on the fault of the driver, no other conditions affect the result (specifically not the condition of the vehicle or apparent wealth of the individuals involved). 

All vehicles must be in tip top shape to maintain the respect and credibility due the government and the Kingdom.  All vehicles must pass a rigorous emissions test bi-annually.  Air quality is of utmost concern in our progressive Kingdom.  Vehicles must be in working order, specifically working headlights, taillights and brake lights, to ensure safety for everyone.   There is a height and width maximum all vehicles must pass to drive within the city.  Extended loads are prohibited. 

All vehicles have a “maximum passenger load” which is enforced vehemently.  To discourage possible overloading of vehicles, all factories offer free transportation for their employees via safe, air-conditioned busses.  All funeral and wedding processions offer the same.  It is required that every passenger riding in a vehicle have their own seat, including children and animals.  The overloading of vehicles is a safety hazard we recognize, condemn, and reject. 

Road conditions remain ideal throughout all times and seasons of the year.   Because longevity is our priority, the roads are constructed to endure heavy rainfall and other complications.  Any issues with the roads are addressed and repaired immediately in a safe and efficient manner. 

Motor bikes may carry a maximum of two passengers and 5 kilos of supplies, be that fruit or vegetables, chickens, glass, or furniture.  Both passengers are required to wear a safety approved, appropriate sized helmet that must be fastened at all times. 

Safety concerns have led to the ban of all phone and tablet use while driving.  Not only is talking on the phone prohibited, but our citizens have even taken the responsibility upon themselves to refrain from texting and listening to music while driving.  The only vehicles which allow any entertainment would be our well-maintained busses, in which we provide 24/7 free karaoke videos on maximum volume (for the hearing impaired).   

Lastly, everyone within the Kingdom, knows to NEVER use their headlights during the day.  This is a massive safety concern as the lights can distract other drivers, or even the traffic police, causing traffic accidents and possible mayhem on the streets.  Something we find truly despicable.  

Drive Safe and Smile!

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