HCMC – Traffic police in HCMC handled more than 1,900 traffic violations involving students in the first quarter of this year, while the city recorded 30 traffic accidents linked to students, resulting in five deaths and 17 injuries.
The data was released on April 24 by the Traffic Police Division (PC08) under the municipal police. Authorities said multiple cases involved underage drivers.
Police said many parents and students have not clearly distinguished between electric bicycles and electric motorbikes, leading to violations and increased accident risks. Misidentification has resulted in students operating vehicles without meeting age requirements, lacking driving licenses, or using unregistered vehicles without license plates.
According to PC08, electric bicycles are defined as vehicles assisted by a motor that cuts off when the rider stops pedaling or when the speed reaches 25 kilometers per hour. These vehicles are equipped with pedals and have low motor capacity. There is no minimum age requirement specified for riders, but traffic rules and helmet requirements must be followed.
Motorized two-wheeled or three-wheeled vehicles with a design speed not exceeding 50 kilometers per hour are classified as mopeds, including electric-powered ones. These vehicles must be registered and bear license plates, and riders must be at least 16 years old.
Motorcycles, defined as vehicles with a design speed above 50 kilometers per hour or engine capacity exceeding 50cc or electric motor output above 4kW, require registration and license plates. Riders must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving license.
Authorities said confusion between vehicle types has led some parents to allow children to operate vehicles without meeting legal conditions. PC08 warned that each accident causes significant loss and highlights the need for stronger compliance with traffic regulations and parental supervision.
