What is the penalty for having one extra passenger in a private car?
2 Answers
Private cars also fall under the category of passenger vehicles. According to the new traffic regulations, driving an operational passenger vehicle (excluding buses) or a school bus with passengers exceeding the approved capacity by less than 20%, or driving other passenger vehicles with passengers exceeding the approved capacity by more than 20% will result in a 6-point penalty. Relevant details are as follows: 1. Non-operational passenger vehicles: Driving a passenger vehicle other than an operational passenger vehicle (excluding buses) or a school bus with passengers exceeding the approved capacity by less than 20% will result in a 3-point penalty. 2. Nature of overloading: Overcrowding is calculated based on whether the actual number of passengers exceeds the approved capacity, regardless of whether they are adults or children. A five-seater car can only carry 5 people, and a seven-seater car can only carry 7 people. Any additional passengers, whether held in arms or seated in the trunk, will be considered overloading, and the nature of the violation remains unchanged.
As an automotive technology enthusiast, I want to inform you that having one extra passenger in a private car is not only illegal but also harmful to the vehicle. Cars are designed with a maximum load capacity, and overloading can overburden the braking system, potentially increasing the braking distance from 40 meters to 60 meters, raising the risk of rear-end collisions. The suspension and tires are also prone to damage, leading to unstable steering or tire blowouts. In terms of penalties, traffic police typically impose a 3-point deduction and a 200-yuan fine, especially in strict enforcement areas like highways or urban intersections. If an accident occurs, the insurance company may refuse to cover the damages, leaving the car owner to pay for repairs and compensations out of pocket. It’s advisable not to take risks to save money or effort. Regularly check tire pressure and the vehicle’s load capacity markings to ensure driving safety. An extra passenger is not a trivial matter—when an accident strikes, regret may come too late.
