Understanding the New Point Deduction System for Driving Licenses in Vietnam
In an effort to enhance road safety and deter drunk driving, the Vietnamese government has introduced a new point deduction system for driving licenses. This system assigns points to each driver’s license, and points are deducted for various traffic violations, including driving under the influence of alcohol.
This article provides a detailed overview of the point deduction system and how it specifically applies to alcohol violations. We’ll delve into the mechanisms of the system, the rationale behind its implementation, and the implications for drivers in Vietnam.
The Mechanism of the Point Deduction System
Under this new system, each driver’s license is initially granted 12 points annually. When a driver commits a traffic violation, a predetermined number of points are deducted from their license based on the severity of the offense. Accumulating enough deductions within a year results in license suspension, requiring drivers to retake a driving test for reinstatement.
Point Deductions for Alcohol Violations
Alcohol violations are subject to varying degrees of point deductions based on the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level. The new regulations outline specific deduction levels for different vehicle types and BAC ranges:
For cars, four-wheeled passenger vehicles, four-wheeled cargo vehicles, and similar vehicles:
- BAC below 0.05% (50 mg/100 ml of blood) or 0.25 mg/L of breath: 3 points deducted (previously 2 points).
- BAC between 0.05% and 0.08% (50 mg to 80 mg/100 ml of blood) or between 0.25 mg and 0.4 mg/L of breath: 10 points deducted.
- BAC exceeding 0.08% (80 mg/100 ml of blood) or 0.4 mg/L of breath: 12 points deducted.
For motorcycles, mopeds, and similar vehicles:
- BAC below 0.05% (50 mg/100 ml of blood) or 0.25 mg/L of breath: 3 points deducted (previously 2 points).
- BAC between 0.05% and 0.08% (50 mg to 80 mg/100 ml of blood) or between 0.25 mg and 0.4 mg/L of breath: 10 points deducted.
- BAC exceeding 0.08% (80 mg/100 ml of blood) or 0.4 mg/L of breath: 12 points deducted.
Implications for Drivers
Drivers in Vietnam must understand the serious implications of these new regulations. The point deduction system aims to cultivate responsible driving behavior by imposing tangible consequences for traffic violations.
Losing all 12 points within a year leads to license suspension and necessitates passing a driving test to regain driving privileges. Drivers must exercise caution and prioritize responsible alcohol consumption to avoid these penalties.
The Rationale Behind the Point Deduction System
The primary objectives of implementing the point deduction system are:
Improving Road Safety: By imposing stricter penalties for traffic violations, the system discourages reckless driving and promotes responsible behavior on the roads, thus contributing to a safer driving environment.
Deterring Drunk Driving: The system aims to significantly reduce the prevalence of drunk driving by imposing substantial point deductions for alcohol violations, making the consequences of driving under the influence more severe.
Enhancing Driver Accountability: The point deduction system assigns direct responsibility to drivers for their actions on the road. It fosters a sense of accountability by linking violations to quantifiable penalties, encouraging drivers to be more conscious of their driving habits.
Additional Points to Remember
The point deduction system is not an alternative form of punishment for traffic violations. If a violation already results in point deductions, the driver will not face separate penalties like license revocation.
The draft decree outlines 189 specific violations or groups of violations that will result in point deductions, with 28 of these carrying a 12-point deduction penalty.
Conclusion
The new point deduction system in Vietnam represents a significant change in traffic law enforcement, aiming to improve road safety, deter drunk driving, and foster driver accountability. Drivers must be aware of the system’s details and the specific deductions associated with alcohol violations to avoid severe penalties. This system signifies a significant step towards creating a more responsible and secure driving environment in Vietnam.
