What is the fine for using an umbrella while riding a vehicle?
Ms. Tran Thi Hien, a resident of Vinh Phu ward, said that during the rainy season, she often sees many people using umbrellas while riding motorbikes or bicycles to protect themselves from the rain. However, she asked: "Is using an umbrella while riding a vehicle considered a traffic violation? If so, what are the penalties?"
Reply:
According to Decree 168/2024/ND-CP, effective from January 1, 2025, using an umbrella while operating a vehicle is a violation and will be subject to administrative penalties. Specifically, drivers of motorcycles, motorbikes, and similar vehicles who use an umbrella while participating in traffic will be fined from VND 800,000 to VND 1,000,000. This regulation is clearly stated in point d, clause 4, Article 7 of the Decree, in the group of unsafe behaviors such as using audio devices (except hearing aids), holding and using a phone or other electronic devices while operating a vehicle.
For cyclists, motorcyclists, or those using other rudimentary vehicles, using an umbrella while operating the vehicle or carrying a passenger who is also using an umbrella will result in a fine ranging from 100,000 VND to 200,000 VND, as stipulated 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 road users. This behavior makes it difficult for drivers to observe their surroundings, increasing the risk of losing control, especially in rainy conditions, on slippery roads, and with limited visibility. Therefore, the regulations imposing penalties are not only intended to deter but also to raise awareness of traffic laws and ensure the safety of both drivers and those around them.