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 avoid 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 driving 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 equipment (except hearing aids), holding and using a phone or other electronic devices while driving.
For cyclists, motorbike riders or other rudimentary vehicles, if they use an umbrella while driving or carry a person using an umbrella, the fine will range from VND100,000 to VND200,000, as prescribed in Point h, Clause 1, Article 9 of the Decree.
Holding an umbrella while driving, even to avoid the rain, still poses many risks to traffic participants. This behavior makes it difficult for the driver to observe, easy to lose control, especially dangerous in rainy conditions, slippery roads, 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 the driver himself as well as those around.
