The traffic incident unfolded as a truck, stopped in the lane closest to the curb—an area frequently used by motorbikes—activated its emergency lights and began to reverse. A woman on a motorbike approached and stopped upon seeing the truck reversing. However, the truck continued its backward movement, striking the motorbike. A driver with a dashcam repeatedly honked to warn the truck driver, but to no avail.
The truck only halted after the motorbike became lodged behind it. Fortunately, the woman abandoned her bike and jumped clear, avoiding injury.
Traffic regulations prohibit vehicles from reversing on public roads, particularly large trucks which pose significant safety risks due to extensive blind spots. Reversing is only permissible when parking.
Motorcyclists are advised to maintain a safe distance from large vehicles such as trucks to prevent accidents. When a motorbike is directly behind a truck, it falls completely within the truck's blind spot. If a truck shows signs of reversing, motorcyclists should immediately change lanes or, if necessary, move onto the sidewalk.
Violations of reversing regulations carry substantial penalties. Decree 168/2024 stipulates that driving an oto (car or truck) in reverse on city streets incurs a fine of 2-3 million VND. In cases where an accident occurs, the fine increases to 20-22 million VND, along with a deduction of 10 points from the driver's license.
Nguyen Vu
