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!