Under the Law on Road Traffic Safety 2024, electric bicycles are categorized with rudimentary vehicles like regular bicycles. This classification means the fines for alcohol concentration violations are substantially lower, ranging from 100,000 VND to a maximum of 600,000 VND. This is a stark contrast to the millions of VND in fines and license suspensions imposed on motorcycle riders for similar offenses.

Electric bicycles can reach considerable speeds, making operating them under the influence of alcohol as dangerous as driving a motorcycle while impaired. Alcohol consumption severely affects the nervous system, impairing a rider's reflexes and control. Traveling at 30 km/h on an electric bicycle while intoxicated poses significant risks. In the event of a collision, the impact force and potential for injury or fatality for both the victim and the violator are comparable to motorcycle accidents. Electric bicycles are typically built with lighter frames, and their braking systems and road grip are often less robust than those of motorcycles, further increasing the risk of losing control from a fall or collision. An intoxicated person on an electric bicycle becomes a "silent menace" on the road, as the vehicle produces no engine noise, making it difficult for other vehicles to anticipate and avoid them from a distance.

The current lenient penalties for this behavior may foster a sense of complacency and disregard for the law. Individuals may not fear the fines because the amounts are minimal, nor do they worry about losing a driver's license, as electric bicycles do not require one. They might focus solely on evading law enforcement, forgetting that the risk of death does not differentiate between a motorcycle and an electric bicycle.

Given this dangerous situation, authorities and relevant agencies must urgently review, amend, and tighten legal regulations. Electric bicycles should be separated from the category of ordinary rudimentary vehicles, and the fines for alcohol concentration violations for this type of vehicle should be raised to match or closely approach those for motorcycles. Concurrently, increased inspections and strict enforcement are necessary to address cases where older or adult individuals intentionally "use" electric bicycles to circumvent the law after drinking.

If you drink alcohol, do not drive any vehicle.

Reader Luu Ly