How much is the fine for using an umbrella while driving?
Ms. Tran Thi Hien, a resident of Vinh Phu Ward, said that during the rainy season, she often sees many people using umbrellas while driving motorbikes or bicycles to protect themselves from the rain. However, she asked: “Is using an umbrella while driving considered a traffic violation? If so, what is the penalty?”
Reply:
According to Decree 168/2024/ND-CP effective from January 1, 2025, using an umbrella while driving is a violation and will be subject to administrative penalties. Specifically, drivers of motorbikes, scooters and similar vehicles who use an umbrella while participating in traffic will be fined from VND 800,000 to VND 1,000,000. This provision is clearly stated in Point d, Clause 4, Article 7 of the Decree, in the group of unsafe acts such as using audio devices (except hearing aids), holding and using phones or other electronic devices while driving.
For cyclists, motorbike riders or other rudimentary vehicles, if they use an umbrella while driving or carrying a person using an umbrella, the fine will range from VND 100,000 to VND 200,000, according to the provisions of Point h, Clause 1, Article 9 of the Decree.
Holding an umbrella while driving, even to avoid the rain, still poses many risks to road users. This behavior makes it difficult for drivers to observe, making it easy to lose control, and is especially dangerous in rainy conditions, slippery roads, and limited visibility. Therefore, the penalty regulations are issued not only to deter, but also to contribute to raising awareness of traffic law compliance, ensuring safety for drivers themselves as well as those around them.
